The Esports Gaming Lounge is positioned as a cutting-edge, high-tech space, reflecting the commitment to providing advanced resources to students.
Tucson’s Utterback Middle School on the Southside is breaking new ground in education with the introduction of an Esports Gaming Lounge, providing students with an innovative opportunity. Principal Taranika Sanders sees this initiative as part of the school’s ongoing efforts to transform its reputation and offer unique experiences to its diverse student population.
The Esports Gaming Lounge is positioned as a cutting-edge, high-tech space, reflecting the commitment to providing advanced resources to students.
Principal Sanders emphasized the rarity of having such a facility in a high-poverty community, particularly on a campus predominantly serving black and brown students. She expressed pride in challenging stereotypes and ensuring that high-tech labs are not exceptions but become a standard for students at Utterback Middle School.
KGUN 9 has closely followed the school’s journey, from achieving its first “B” letter grade to addressing enrollment challenges. Despite these obstacles, the school received a “B” letter grade for the second consecutive year. Principal Sanders remains focused on increasing enrollment, and the Esports Gaming Lounge is expected to attract families from across Tucson.
The Esports Gaming Lounge features the Esports Arena, a collaboration with the University of Arizona. Students at Utterback Middle School can not only enjoy gaming but also participate in competitions and receive valuable feedback from college students. Assistant Principal Riki Valdez, who has been instrumental in bringing this program to life since April 2023, highlighted the values of teamwork and communication that students gain through esports.
Expressing gratitude for the partnerships and sponsorships that made the high-tech gaming lounge possible, Valdez acknowledged the support from the Bialis Family, Cox Communications, Tucson Electric Power, and the Educational Enrichment Foundation.
The gaming lounge offers students the opportunity to play popular games such as Rocket League, Minecraft, and Chess. Initially, it functions as a class for the Student Tech Team but is poised to expand into additional classes and an after-school program in the future.
Zahtaya Johnson, a member of the Student Tech Team and an active participant in various sports at Utterback Middle School, shared her enthusiasm for esports. She emphasized the similarities between traditional sports and esports in terms of teamwork, communication, patience, and the ability to consider different perspectives. Johnson sees esports as a new and exciting challenge that complements her overall sports experience.
The Esports Gaming Lounge represents a forward-thinking approach to education, leveraging technology and collaboration with higher education institutions to provide students with unique opportunities for skill development and engagement. As the program expands, it is poised to contribute to the overall enrichment and success of students at Utterback Middle School.