Dallas, Texas (February 14, 2024) – Easterseals Lonestar announces that four schools have joined its new Esports League. The school are Navarro and Greenleaf Neurodiverse Transition School, both part of the Austin Independent School District; Cedars International Next Generation High School; and Manor New Tech High School.

Easterseals Lonestar launched the program to engage at-risk students of all abilities. To date, more than 40 students are participating, with additional students expected to join. Easterseals Lonestar’s esports initiative involves the formation of dedicated esports teams within each participating school, competing in tournament leagues. Currently, these teams are engaging in friendly scrimmages with counterparts in Oklahoma and New York. Beyond the competitive aspect, students enrolled in the Easterseals Lonestar esports program also benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes game design and other STEAM-related courses, fostering valuable life skills.

“Esports is a powerful vehicle to ignite students’ passion for STEAM by incorporating an element they genuinely enjoy. Our esports program is not only creating an inclusive and enjoyable environment but also establishing a pathway for at-risk students of all abilities to connect with peers nationwide through competitive esports, coupled with a robust STEAM curriculum. This initiative aims to unlock opportunities for these promising students within the esports and gaming industry,” said Jennifer Friesen, Vice President, Easterseals Lonestar.

Made possible by a generous award from the Texas Workforce Commission, the Easterseals Lonestar esports program is a one-year, $100,000 pilot initiative in collaboration with local school districts. It seeks to attract students to an eSports league that seamlessly integrates opportunities to explore STEAM careers.

About Easterseals Lonestar

Easterseals Lonestar represents central and north Texas. Easterseals Lonestar promotes independence and creates opportunities for people with disabilities to pursue their hopes and dreams. Easterseals Lonestar is a member of The Fedcap Group. For nearly ninety years, The Fedcap Group has developed scalable and innovative solutions to some of society’s most pressing needs. The Fedcap Group provides educational services to every age group, vocational training and job attainment in high-growth industries, as well as support services such as behavioral health services—all targeted to helping people achieve long-term self-sufficiency.

Media Contact:

Jim Malatras

Email: JMalatras@fedcap.org