CONCORD – As esports has gained traction across the country, here in New Hampshire, the non-traditional sports phenomenon is being used to promote teamwork, engage students, and spur exploration of STEM concepts and skills. career paths.

“Esports is the fastest growing sport in the world, and it’s the most popular sport for middle school and high school kids right now,” said Uptime co-founder Tim Schneider. Esports, which has offices in Bedford, Exeter and Hanover. , Mass. “The kids in our program are engineering and STEM-focused students, so we try to open up a broader view of knowledge for them, beyond just playing.”

Uptime Esports offers programs focused on competitive gaming, coding, engineering, game design, and computer building. It also offers sensory games. Its program was designed by professional STEM and NAECAD certified coaches, in collaboration with the New England Institute of Technology and Shenandoah University.

“We are excited to provide students with a platform where they can learn how to build a personal computer, explore the world of cryptocurrencies, and engage in critical thinking concepts – all while participating in a sport they are passionate about. already,” said Commissioner Frank Edelblut. or education. “The inclusion of Uptime Esports in our growing field of Learn Everywhere programs will expand opportunities in New Hampshire and allow students to capture the learning that will matter towards graduation and help meet the needs of all. the children.”

Uptime Esports is one of fifteen Learn Everywhere programs approved by the State Board of Education since its inception. Learn Everywhere, an innovative educational program unique to New Hampshire, allows students to earn credit for learning outside of the classroom. Launched in 2018, the Learn Everywhere program is a unique approach to learning that is grounded in state philosophy, law and rules, and expands educational opportunities for students in support of local schools.

The State Board of Education approved Uptime Esports as a new Learn Everywhere program on March 10, along with Portsmouth Aikido, a non-profit organization dedicated to practicing and teaching the traditional Japanese martial art of Aikido. .

“It is inspiring to see a new round of Learn Everywhere applications receive approval. Our hope is to expand this program throughout the year and take advantage of the different types of teaching that may not be taking place in a traditional school setting,” said Nate Greene, administrator of the Bureau of Educational Opportunities at NHDOE.

“Through the Learn Everywhere program, New Hampshire high school students interested in science and technology can now earn technology elective credit through Uptime Esports, marine science credit through the Seacoast Science Center, biology credits, physics and chemistry through the New Hampshire Academy of Science and eight different credits through First Robotics, including computer science, engineering, and manufacturing,” said Drew Cline, chairman of the State Board of Education. “We are proud to offer so many new learning opportunities to our students. And we’re just getting started.

For more information on Learn Everywhere, visit www.education.nh.gov/pathways-to-education/learn-everywhere.