The event, attended by the Board of Education, BPUSD cabinet members, school administrators, state elected official representatives, community members, students, and families, showcased the District’s commitment to expanding learning opportunities through competitive video gaming.
The Jones Middle School “Esports Lab” features specialized gaming setups for 22 students, including gaming systems, computers, keyboards, headphones, a broadcasting station, two coaches' stations, and two big-screen TV displays. Students and guests were able to tour the new facility, watch gaming demos, and participate in a raffle hosted by DI Technologies, with prizes including gaming keyboards and headphones. Families also enjoyed esports-themed treats, including decorated cookies and Mario Kart Pez dispensers.
"This moment represents more than just the launch of a gaming space; it marks the beginning of new opportunities for our students to engage, learn, compete, and grow in ways that connect the digital world with hands-on learning," said Superintendent Dr. Froilan N. Mendoza.
The program is open to all sixth through eighth graders at Jones Middle School, with participation linked to school attendance, encouraging students to maintain consistent attendance in order to be eligible. Two dedicated coaches, Dr. Andrew Persaud and Christian Luna, will guide students through an educational curriculum that focuses on teamwork, sportsmanship, communication, and gameplay strategies. The esports curriculum will introduce students to a wide array of games, ranging from Mario Kart and Super Smash Brothers to more complex, PC-based games like Rocket League.
BPUSD's esports program aims to develop students' problem-solving skills, fast reactions, and effective communication, while promoting social-emotional learning, STEM education, and a sense of belonging.
As part of BPUSD's Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELOP), the Jones Middle School esports program will run for multiple seasons and is expected to expand to all middle schools within the District. Future esports labs are planned to open at Sierra Vista Middle School in November, followed by BP STEM Academy and Olive Middle School in January.
BPUSD continues to focus on innovative ways to engage students in learning and extracurricular activities, and the esports program is just the beginning of broader opportunities for student development in both academics and digital literacy.
PHOTOS
Jones_Esports1: Jones Middle School students demonstrate playing Mario Kart at the new esports lab.
Jones_Esports2: Interior photo of the Jones Middle School esports lab.
Jones_Esports3: Jones Middle School students gather with program coaches Dr. Andrew Persaud and Christian Luna, Board of Education members, Principal Lorena Chavira, Assistant Principal Vanessa Rivas, and Superintendent Froilan N. Mendoza for the ribbon cutting of the esports lab.
Jones_Esports4: Jones Middle School students demonstrate playing Mario Kart at the new esports lab.
Jones_Esports5: Photo of a gaming station with specialized keyboard, computer system,headphones, chair, and game control.
Jones_Esports6: Jones Middle School students demonstrate playing Mario Kart at the new esports lab.
Jones_Esports7: Interior photo of the Jones Middle School esports lab.
Jones_Esports8: BPUSD Senior Director of Support Services Noreen Iwai-Ito, Chief Technology Officer Rick Hassler, Board of Education members, program coaches Dr. Andrew Persaud and Christian Luna, Principal Lorena Chavira, Assistant Principal Vanessa Rivas, and Superintendent Froilan N. Mendoza pose for a photo after being recognized by state elected officials.