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Students and advisors say Northern Lehigh Esports growing; ask board for modest supports
Summary
High school Esports advisors and a student told the board the program has grown to about 20'30 participants, advanced to playoffs and Rocket League finals, and needs modest district support (jerseys, equipment access) to ensure equity and team identity.
Advisors and a student from Northern Lehigh High School briefed the board on the Esports program, reporting competitive success, rising participation and questions about equitable access to paid in-game content.
An Esports advisor said the program just completed its fall season and "made it to playoffs in 2 out of the 4 titles, and we made it to finals in the Rocket League title," noting an in-person finals trip to Harrisburg. Advisors described the program's transition from a club to part of athletics in its third year and estimated 20'30 students involved, with roughly 24 actively competing.
Student Jomar Ortiz described Esports as a social and skill-building activity; an advisor added the program supports collegiate recruitment pathways and scholarships for some players. Advisors asked for simple recognition items such as jerseys and emphasized the district's role in reducing equipment inequities: "Some of the titles ... require paid downloadable content ... if our kids don't have the money to download that ... then they're playing with ... less adequate equipment," an advisor said.
Board members and administrators discussed possible supports and noted the program's growing role in extracurricular offerings. No procurement or budget appropriation was decided during the meeting; the advisor said program leaders would continue exploring options and return with specifics if additional resources are requested.
