At PlayVS, scholastic esports is more than gameplay—it’s a curriculum. We sat down with Education Manager Alex Hirbe to learn how the company’s Gaming Concepts courses and Blueprint platform are reshaping what it means to integrate esports into classrooms across the country.
What drew you to the world of esports and education?
I spent years teaching in classrooms and supporting teachers with educational technology. I saw how students—especially those struggling in traditional settings—lit up when learning involved gaming, collaboration, and creativity. That sparked something in me. I realized esports could be more than a hobby; it could be an academic pathway.
How do Gaming Concepts and Blueprint actually work in schools?
Gaming Concepts is a curriculum designed by licensed teachers that connects esports to academic standards, digital literacy, and real-world skills. Courses like Digital Life Skills, Streaming & Shoutcasting, and Computer Applications go beyond gameplay—they develop communication, teamwork, and career readiness. Our Blueprint platform supports that work by helping teachers deliver content, track student progress, and even build custom learning modules.
What does success look like for your program?
It’s not just about winning matches. We look at growth: improved attendance, better collaboration, and increased student confidence. Our Mental Health Moments embedded in the curriculum also help students build emotional literacy—something that’s just as important as technical skills. When students feel a sense of belonging and discover their potential through esports, that’s the real win.
What inspired the way
you built this program?
Honestly, it came from watching students thrive when given space to learn through play. We took inspiration from project-based learning, social-emotional development, and CTE models to design something that feels purposeful and modern. At its core, it’s about meeting students where they are—and helping them go further.
What does your partnership with ESTA bring to the table?
ESTA connects us with industry leaders, which helps ensure our curriculum stays relevant to what the esports workforce actually needs. It’s helped align our programs with real job pathways in media, production, and technology.
