Mission, Texas – Mission CISD Junior High students that are enrolled in the Career and Technology Education Video Game Design class are learning the skills to create and release their very own video game.The Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) currently offers a video game design program throughout all Jr. High Schools.
The initiative to create this program was spearheaded by Kenneth White Junior High School teacher, Israel Martinez, who recognized the student's interest after the school's eSports competitive gaming program earned national recognition.
“The students are now learning about programming, technology, and computer science. They can combine that knowledge with their love of video games and create a game that’s their own.” said Mr. Martinez. “I want the students to know that this can be a career for them, whether it be through computer science, or art and design.”
Keeping up with the students’ interests was a motivation for Kenneth White Junior High School principal, Brenda K. Betancourt, who saw the potential in creating a video game production class.
“We always promote our students to move on to post-secondary education. We want our students to fall into a career that they love and will love for the rest of their life,” Mrs. Betancourt said. “This is definitely a good opportunity for our students. They get high school credit, and they can build upon the knowledge and skills they get here at our Jr. High Schools.”
Meanwhile, Career & Technical Education Director, Sergio Pena, has been busy developing a plan in response to the positive student interest.
“All four of our junior high schools are currently offering the Video Game Design course.” Mr. Pena said. “We have developed a 6-year plan for students interested in participating in this program from grade 7-12.”
Parents can enroll their children at Mission CISD through the online registration system at, https://www.mcisd.net/. Help in registering for school can also be found by calling 323-5578.
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