Esports in K-12 Education
With hundreds of schools participating in various leagues across the U.S. and the world, esports is set to have a major impact on STEM learning, college and career readiness, and the tech industry as a whole.
Gaming has always included a competitive element, even in the earliest video games such as Pong*. However, it wasn't until the early 2000s that technological innovation provided the environment for esports to thrive. Broadband internet allowed gamers to join multiplayer competitions first through LAN connections (e.g., a "LAN party") and later through wireless connections. Gaming consoles like xBox*, PlayStation*, and Nintendo* created their own online networks to keep pace. Streaming services like Twitch* and YouTube* popularized watching others play video games. Additionally, a host of new games such as StarCraft*, FIFA*, and Counter-Strike* and game types including first person shooter and multiplayer online battle arena capitalized on the vastly improved power, performance, and graphics of modern computing. While still rapidly evolving, the esports industry is now mature enough to include niches for almost anyone with any affinity towards gaming, no matter their age, interests, or level of enthusiasm.
Leagues of Learning
The rising tide of esports in K-12 education: An Intel®-sponsored white paper
Esports in K-12 Education
Benefits of Esports in K-12
- Improve retention
- Gain college skills
- Expand career opportunities
- Pathway to college
- Healthier behaviors
High School Esports Leagues
Additional Resources
- Be Recruited: Guide to the esports recruiting process
- Esports Scholarships for Gamers
- NACE Play Esports in College
- Esports for Education Discord

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