Page 37 - Demo

SCHOLASTIC ESPORTSThe District engages learners by offering opportunities to develop teamwork, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills through scholastic esports. The program expanded this year to include 109 schools, supported by dedicated coaches. This initiative aligns with several organizations to maximize student opportunities by:%u2022 Partnering with the Network of Academic and Scholastic Esports Federations and its Florida affiliate, the Sunshine State Esports League.%u2022 Competing in national tournaments hosted by the Electronic Gaming Federation and PlayVS.%u2022 Collaborating with colleges to offer scholarship opportunities to participants.Battle of the Beaches: Minecraft Build ChallengeThe Department of Educational Technology collaborated with CDW Corp, Minecraft, and Broward County Public Schools to host the second annual Battle of the Beaches. This competitive Minecraft EDU event engaged learners in grades 3 through 12. Student teams responded to prompts that required sustainable building practices to address relevant ecological issues. Participants constructed digital Florida homes that incorporated key environmental elements such as:%u2022 Using renewable energy resources.%u2022 Protecting local wildlife.%u2022 Integrating into coastal and Everglades environments.The initial rounds concluded, with the top elementary, middle, and high school teams advancing to the semifinals at Palm Beach Lakes Community HS. Subsequently, two winning groups from each grade band competed against Broward County%u2019s top builders at the Safe Schools Institute. The District formally recognized the multi-county champions who secured first place in their respective grade bands:%u2022 Eco-Rangers 5 from Park Vista Community HS%u2022 Pidgey Boys from Christa McAuliffe MSThroughout this challenge, students demonstrated practical application by integrating environmental science and engineering. These collaborative efforts provided learners with valuable experience in communication, collaboration, and critical thinking as they explored ways to visualize and solve complex problems.