High School Esports for Building Life Skills

Playing video games is fun! But when kids engage with and compete in online multiplayer tournaments against teams from other schools, it becomes much more than simply entertainment—it’s like joining a sports league in the digital world!.

The K12 Esports League offers students a fantastic platform to compete with peers nationwide, all while developing valuable life skills such as teamwork and communication. Coaches are dedicated to helping players excel, ensuring they find a healthy balance between esports, schoolwork, and other commitments so students can truly enjoy this exciting and competitive experience.

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Two Modes of Play

Students can participate in two ways:

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Casual Play

Weekly time commitment: 1 hour

These are low-commitment opportunities for players aged 13+ to learn about esports, gain experience, and have fun through:

• One-off tournaments
• Themed webinars
• Special events

Three gamers in a dimly lit room, wearing headphones, are immersed in a game. They're smiling, raising fists in excitement, conveying a cheerful mood.

Competitive Play Through Esports Leagues1

Weekly time commitment: 3+ hours

Students make friends, expand their skills, and showcase their in-game talent in leagues that provide a team environment for competitive play.

• Open League for beginner or intermediate players interested in expanding their skills.
• Varsity League for intermediate to expert-level players passionate about esports and excited to dedicate time to proving themselves on the leaderboard.

Positive Impact of Esports

Students who participate in the K12 Esports League gain:

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Opportunities to compete with teams across the country

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Teamwork and communication skill-building

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Leadership, responsibility, and socialization skills

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Guidance on balancing esports with academic success

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Access to scholarship opportunities2

HEAR WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING

Jacob

LAVCA Pelicans esports player*

“I’ve been an esports player for around two and a half years, and to say that it changed my life would be an understatement. Through esports, I have learned undeniable teamwork and collaboration skills while also making countless friends through the programs available. Esports has become such a large part of my life. With every week I am constantly looking forward to practicing with and playing for my school.”

Chance

MGLVA Surge esports player**

“The [K12 Esports] League is important to me because it helps me connect to others who enjoy the same things as me. It also pushes me to do the best I can do, so I always improve. It also makes me keep my grades up.”

Lily

MGLVA Surge esports player**

“For me, esports is one of the main reasons I want to stay at K12.” **

Lara

TVAH Bobcats esports coach

“I enjoy esports because I love seeing how much fun the students have. It is exciting to see them be very passionate about their games and how competitive they can get.”

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Game Guide

Casual offerings:

• Fortnite
• Fall Guys
• Roblox
• And more!

K12 Esports League Games:

• Fortnite
• Rocket League
• Chess
• Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
• VALORANT
• Marvel Rivals (NEW!)

Who’s playing?

Check out the roster of school teams competing in the league:

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Want to turn gaming skills into a career?

Think finding a career in gaming is a long shot? There’s more to the industry than turning pro; you might be surprised. Check out these K12 Career and College Prep options to learn how a passion for gaming can play a role in helping your student find their calling.

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Information Technology

This field is a natural fit for gamers, especially those who want to do more than just play. Students can take courses in:

• Programming
• Web and Digital Communication

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Business

Esports and leagues are becoming serious business, and if that side of the industry appeals to your student, consider these kinds of courses:

• Entrepreneurship
• General Management
• Marketing Communication

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Health and Human Services

Esports and gamification have expanding potential to impact many areas of life, including health and education courses, such as:

• Education and Training
• Sports Medicine

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Creative Services

Solid writing and captivating graphics form the foundation of successful games, while effective marketing generates customer excitement. Your creative student may enjoy courses such as:

• Writing and Editing
• Marketing
• Storyboarding
• Game Design
• Digital/Graphic Design

1Esports leagues are only available to students who maintain minimum academic requirements at schools with an esports coach/coordinator. Check with your school for details.
2K12-Powered students of the K12 Esports League have been offered scholarships of up to $30,000 per year to participate in collegiate-level esports.