Anaheim Union High School District Launches Game Design and Esports Pathway
The AUHSD is teaming up with Fullerton College to offer curriculum to students to gain skills needed for a career in the interactive media industry.
The following is a press release from the Anaheim Union High School District and does not reflect editorial work done by Spotlight Schools.
The Anaheim Union High School District and Fullerton College are proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking Game Design and Esports Pathway at Katella High School and South Junior High School, beginning in the 2025–2026 school year. Developed through an exclusive partnership with Fullerton College, and supported by industry leader Extron, this first-of-its-kind initiative will empower students with the technical, creative, and collaborative skills needed to succeed in the rapidly growing video game and interactive media industry.
The official launch of the Game Design and Esports Pathway will take place at this year’s AUHSD College and Career Fair on November 3, 2025, from 5:00–7:30 p.m. at the Anaheim Convention Center.
The Game Design Pathway and Esports Pathway will provide students with a robust curriculum grounded in visual storytelling, user experience design, and game development fundamentals, beginning as early as junior high school and continuing through high school, with college and career pathways. As part of AUHSD’s commitment to preparing students for the future economy, this pathway reflects AUHSD’s broader mission to integrate real-world learning, innovation, and industry alignment.
“Video game design is more than entertainment—it’s an emerging driver of the 21st-century economy, blending STEM, art, and storytelling,” said AUHSD Superintendent Michael Matsuda. “Through this collaboration with Fullerton College, we’re opening doors for students to explore high-wage, high-growth fields with relevance.”
“At Extron, we’re proud to support AUHSD’s visionary approach to integrating technology and creativity in the classroom,” says Anthony Cortes, Director of Sales and Marketing, Education Classroom Systems. “The Game Design Pathway is a powerful example of how immersive, hands-on learning can inspire students to explore future-ready careers in interactive media and digital storytelling.”
Highlights of the Game Design and Esports Pathway include:
- Hands-on coursework in coding, 3D modeling, narrative design, and game engines
- Dual enrollment opportunities with Fullerton College for early college credit
- Mentorship and workshops with faculty and students from Fullerton College
- Access to state-of-the-art labs, esports integration, and collaborative game design projects
- Opportunities to showcase original games in district-wide events and competitions
As this innovative pathway rolls out, AUHSD will continue to engage industry leaders and educators to ensure the program remains aligned with evolving workforce demands. This initiative is part of AUHSD’s larger vision to redefine career readiness by supporting student creativity, collaboration, and digital fluency.
About the Anaheim Union High School District
The Anaheim Union High School District serves approximately 26,000 students in the communities of Anaheim, Cypress, Buena Park, La Palma, and Stanton.
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