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High School Esports for Building Life Skills
Playing video games is fun! But when kids engage in online multiplayer games against teams from other schools, it becomes much more than just 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 teamwork and communication skills. 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.
The K12 Esports League Mission Statement: “The K12 Esports League creates a competitive, inclusive, and community‑driven esports experience where every student can belong, grow, and represent their school with pride. We empower players to build confidence, develop real‑world skills, and discover pathways to their future through the games they love.”
Two Modes of Play
Students can participate in two ways:
Casual Play
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
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.
Meet the League
Dustin Owens serves as the K12 Esports League coordinator, bringing more than 6 years of experience with Stride, Inc. and a background as an esports coach for a K12-powered school. He is passionate about creating meaningful esports opportunities that engage, connect, and inspire students across the K12 community.
Favorite Games: Marvel Rivals, Fortnite, and any Final Fantasy titles
Robby Manegdeg is the K12 Esports League commissioner and has been a part of the league for more than 4 years. Esports has been a huge part of his life for over a decade. Bringing this opportunity of competing in high school esports to K12-Powered students, something he wishes was around during his schooling time, is a big passion of his.
Favorite Games: Fortnite, Pokémon, and Teamfight Tactics
Positive Impact of Esports
Students who participate in the K12 Esports League gain:
Opportunities to compete with teams across the nation
Teamwork and communication skill-building
Leadership, responsibility, and socialization skills
Guidance on balancing esports with academic success
Access to scholarships2
HEAR WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING
Who’s playing?
Check out the roster of school teams competing in the league:
Want to turn gaming skills into a career?
Think finding a career in gaming is a long shot? There’s much more to the industry than just turning pro as a player. Check out these Stride Career Prep fields and pathways to learn how a passion for gaming could play a role in landing you a job you’ll love.
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:
• Digital Design
• Game Design and Programming
• Programming
• Web and Digital Communication
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
Health and Human Services
Esports and gamification have an expanding potential to impact many areas of life, including health and education. Consider these pathways:
• Education and Training
• Sports Medicine
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
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be enrolled through a K12-powered school with an active coach at the school.
K12-powered students must be 13 years of age or older.
K12-powered students are expected to provide their own equipment. This includes Gaming Consoles, PC/Laptops, Headphones w/ Mic, and Nintendo Online Subscription (Super Smash Bros. Ultimate only).
Teamwork, communication, leadership, decision-making, and digital literacy.
No, students only need to participate in the games they are interested in.
Families can contact their school to express interest. Programs depend on staffing and participation.
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.
3K12PEA refers to K12 Private Academy, Keystone, Coast to Mountains Prep , Marian University Preparatory, Grand Canyon Private Academy, and The George Washington Online High School.
*Jacob is a 2024 student at a K12-powered school in LA, and their statement reflects their experience at their school.
**Chance and Lily are 2024 students at a K12-powered school in MI, and their statements reflect their experiences at their school.
†Lara is a 2024 coach at a K12-powered school in TX, and their statement reflects their experience there.