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Snake River School Board approves high-school Esports club over one dissent
Summary
The Snake River School Board voted 4-1 Nov. 20 to approve a competitive Esports club at the high school after presentations about academic and team benefits; Trustee Lon Harrington voted no, citing concerns about game choices.
On Nov. 20, 2024, the Snake River School Board of Trustees voted 4-1 to approve a competitive Esports club at Snake River High School following a presentation by Kent Dance and Sam Kudla. The meeting was held at Moreland Elementary in Blackfoot.
Kent Dance, one of the presenters, described the program’s structure: "Esports refers to games that you can play on a video game console or computer and compete against teams at other schools," and said the activity can support teamwork, STEM skills and offer scholarship opportunities. Presenters said the season typically runs from February through May, culminating in a state tournament.
The Nut Graf: Supporters told the board Esports clubs at other Idaho schools promote collaboration and academic engagement and have scholarship pathways; organizers proposed the club follow existing high-school club guidelines and run after school so it would not take class time. Superintendent Mark Kress said the club would not be an expense to the district at this time but could require funding later.
Trustee Lon Harrington questioned the content of games to be played and requested a list of specific titles; board members agreed Mr. Dance will provide that list for review. The organizers noted commonly played titles at the school include "FortNite, Apex Legends, and Super Smash Bros.," which are rated Teen.
Board action came after a failed attempt to table the item (a motion to table received no second). Trustee Larin Mortimer moved to approve the Esports club and Trustee Toni Ibarra seconded; four trustees voted aye and Lon Harrington voted nay. The club will operate under the high-school club policies and organizers said participants may face small fees (a $10 gaming platform fee, a $40 club fee and travel costs) to cover league or travel expenses.
The board’s approval sends organizers to finalize schedules and the list of games for trustee review; season play and tournament participation were described as beginning in February with state-level competition in May.
