In Spring 2023, The Loyalty Foundation officially launched Newark City Schools first-ever high school esports (Electronic Sports) program in conjunction with Newark School of Data Science and Information Technology.
The Data Science Circuits team played the colorful vehicular soccer video game Rocket League on PCs that The Loyalty Foundation customized and helped to install at the school.
Esports programs are not just for esport players, but also provide skill-learning opportunities for team managers and game commentators, as well as a joyful environment for community building and new friendships.
"Your kids are not just playing games, they’re actually learning. We are providing opportunities and connection to keep our students grounded, to keep them coming, which is why our attendance the best in the district right now,” says Principal, Dr. Liana Summey.
"This is the top tier of our students. They are excited and this is not a side club. This is a team that is recognized by the school. These are the cool students!” added Brian Klasner, Vice Principal
Because The Loyalty Foundation has the capability to provide computers, equipment, set-up, and an IT person, participating organizations also gain a working computer lab where students can partake in our Gaming4Good, AI & Art, and other programs when the lab is not being used for esports.
Referring to the interlocking circuits in the heart logo on the Circuits team jerseys, a Data Science student explains, “You see all these? They connect to each other. It like, symbolizes our connection and our family. We are basically a family.”
Video credits:
Directed and shot by Francis Corby Ceschin @francis_ces
Edited by James Casteel @newbootgoofin_official
Intro animation by Ricardo Tomita @volcano_island
See great photos from the big launch day here.
Organizations interested in launching their own esports program please contact info@loyaltyfoundation.org.
To donate to the Loyalty Foundation and learn more about our work, please visit www.loyaltyfoundation.org/donate
Watch more Loyalty Foundation videos on our YouTube channel.
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