Lawrence schools weigh launching sanctioned esports program after student spotlight and state approval

The Lawrence Public Schools Board of Education heard a multi-part presentation and discussion about esports on Aug. 20, including remarks from students who compete for the district and a staff briefing on next steps now that the state association has voted to sanction esports as an interscholastic activity beginning this school year.

The presentation and student remarks opened with LVS Principal Zach Harwood introducing two students — Travis, a recent graduate and former team captain, and Eli May, an eighth grader — who described how esports increased their engagement at school and taught leadership, teamwork and technical skills. “Esports kind of got me through high school,” Travis said, and Eli said esports “gave me confidence” and allowed him to make playoffs for the first time in the district’s history.

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Engelbrecht told the board that the state association’s vote to sanction esports surprised some districts by taking effect immediately rather than next year. The state association has partnered with PlayVS (Play Versus), a national competition platform, and PlayVS will provide the licensing fee coverage in the first year, Engelbrecht said. The…