-- Redefining Learning Through Esports
In Louisiana, an educational transformation is unfolding through the vision of Jeffery Harrison, Director of Network Operations for the East Baton Rouge Parish School System and the Executive Director of the Louisiana Scholastic Esports Federation (LASEF). As an educator and technologist, Harrison’s mission extends beyond competition. His goal is to show students how esports can cultivate communication, teamwork, leadership, and technical proficiency.
What began as a small initiative under the East Baton Rouge Esports League (EBREL) has evolved into a statewide movement redefining how gaming connects to learning. Across Louisiana, elementary schools, middle schools, high schools, libraries, homeschool programs, and colleges are joining LASEF’s framework, integrating esports as a tool for engagement and skill development. The results have been both measurable and inspiring, transforming classrooms into collaborative spaces where technology and creativity intersect.
Harrison’s approach captures the heart of modern education. As he explains, “I believe that gaming can be more than just entertainment. It’s a gateway to teamwork, communication, and creativity. When students play with purpose, they learn with purpose.”
From Controller to Classroom
Harrison’s educational philosophy combines his background in network operations with a passion for technology. Through LASEF, he’s created an inclusive ecosystem where students are not just players but also producers, designers, and engineers.
Students gain hands-on experience in areas like broadcasting, IT, live event production, and digital design. “They’re not just playing games like Rocket League or Mario Kart,” Harrison explains. “They’re running livestreams, managing events, and creating digital assets—learning how professional esports organizations work.”
One key initiative, the Arcade Cabinet Project, brings together students from CAD, carpentry, electronics, and digital media to design and build arcade cabinets. This project illustrates Harrison’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning and applied technology.
LASEF’s events, such as Stomp in the Swamp and the LASEF State Championship, showcase student-led collaboration, featuring broadcasts, commentary, and technical production teams, while reinforcing academic principles and fostering innovation.
Esports as Workforce Development
For Harrison and his team, scholastic esports is a gateway to workforce development, not just extracurriculars. Through the LASEF Ambassador Program, students gain leadership training in public speaking, digital media, event organization, and community outreach.
“When students see they can turn their love for gaming into a career in tech, broadcasting, marketing, or event production, it clicks,” Harrison explains. “We’re building the next generation of IT professionals, content creators, and leaders.”
LASEF is leading educational innovation in Louisiana by bridging the gap between digital literacy and employability, ensuring students graduate with real-world skills and confidence in digital technologies.
Power in Partnership: LASEF and USAEL
A cornerstone of LASEF’s expansion has been its collaboration with the United States Academic Esports League (USAEL). The partnership integrates Louisiana’s schools into a national esports framework, allowing students to compete on a larger stage while maintaining educational integrity.
Through USAEL’s support, participating Louisiana schools gain access to scheduling systems, match management tools, and academic resources designed to align gaming with curriculum goals. “USAEL gives us structure and scalability,” Harrison explains. “It allows Louisiana students to compete on a national stage while keeping education at the core.”
The partnership also offers opportunities for leadership development, career readiness, and exposure to national-level events. By aligning local programs with national standards, LASEF ensures that Louisiana’s students can connect their passions to meaningful educational and professional pathways. Harrison emphasizes, “We’re part of something bigger. LASEF is showing that Louisiana belongs in the national conversation about innovation in education and esports.”
Building Louisiana’s Esports Industry
LASEF’s influence extends well beyond schools. Harrison’s collaboration with the Esports Trade Association (ESTA) and the formation of the ESTA Louisiana Chapter are helping to shape the future of Louisiana’s esports economy.
“The Louisiana Chapter gives us a seat at the national table,” Harrison says. “It connects schools, businesses, and communities so that esports isn’t just seen as a game. It’s recognized as a growing industry that brings jobs, investment, and innovation to our state.”
Through ESTA, Louisiana is developing a professional infrastructure that includes sponsorship opportunities, event management, and workforce integration. These efforts mirror Harrison’s educational philosophy by linking learning to tangible career outcomes. LASEF’s partnerships with local universities, technology firms, and community organizations create a foundation for long-term sustainability and economic growth.
Community and Collaboration
Collaboration is at the heart of LASEF’s success. The federation has forged partnerships with organizations such as UL Lafayette’s Ragin’ Cajuns Esports, Lockstep Technology Group, AE Touch Technologies, Cybernut, Palo Alto Networks, Extreme Networks, and the Louisiana Association of Computer Using Educators (LACUE).
Even local businesses, including eateries like Cork’s Seafood, have joined the movement, demonstrating how deeply embedded LASEF has become within the community. “Louisiana has some of the most passionate educators,” Harrison observes. “They understand that esports is a bridge. It brings students who might not participate in traditional sports into activities that build confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.”
These collaborations create a comprehensive ecosystem that integrates education, technology, and community engagement. By aligning industry partners with educational goals, LASEF is ensuring that scholastic esports remains both sustainable and meaningful for generations to come.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season begins, LASEF continues to expand its reach across Louisiana. The organization’s upcoming initiatives include statewide online leagues, collegiate showcases, and industry networking events designed to connect students directly with professional opportunities.
Harrison envisions a future where LASEF serves as a launchpad for emerging technologies beyond esports. The next phase includes integrating disciplines such as drone racing, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), cybersecurity and computer engineering competitions modeled after entrepreneurial showcases. “We’re expanding beyond esports to bridge into areas like VR and AR technologies, drone racing, and even computer build competitions that function like our own version of Shark Tank,” Harrison explains. “The idea is to keep pushing creativity and entrepreneurship, letting students apply their skills in ways that prepare them for the industries of the future.”
His vision for a Louisiana Esports Pathway connects students from elementary through collegiate levels, ensuring consistent access to resources, mentorship, and career preparation. “Esports (gaming) is the language this generation speaks,” Harrison concludes. “If we listen, guide, and empower them, they’ll show us just how powerful that language can be.”
About Louisiana Scholastic Esports Federation (LASEF)
The Louisiana Scholastic Esports Federation (LASEF) is an educational organization dedicated to promoting esports as a platform for academic growth, digital literacy, and workforce readiness. Founded by educator and technologist Jeffery Harrison, LASEF partners with schools, libraries, and community organizations across Louisiana to provide students with opportunities for competition, collaboration, and career development. Through partnerships with national organizations such as the United States Academic Esports League (USAEL), NASEF, and the Esports Trade Association (ESTA), LASEF connects Louisiana students to a national network of academic and professional resources.
For more information, visit LASEFUP.org.
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Louisiana Scholastic Esports Federation (LASEF)
Jeffery Harrison
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Organization: Louisiana Scholastic Esports Federation (LASEF)
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