Welcome to the ITS4ED Podcast! It’s time to trade keyboards for controllers, code for combos, and IT tickets for teamwork because today, we’re not just troubleshooting, we're gaming! Welcome to the first-ever IT Staff Esports Competition, where skill, strategy, and friendly rivalry come together to celebrate the incredible talent within our IT teams.

This event is more than just gaming, it's about building community, promoting wellness through play, and highlighting the creativity, collaboration, and competitive spirit that powers our work every day. Let’s hear about how this event unfolded, the unexpected upsets, and most importantly, the fun had by all.

Host: Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager

Los Angeles Unified Guests:

• Miguel Alfaro, ITST II
• Isaiah Duenas, ITST II
• Oliver Hament, Deputy Director ITCS
• Jay Iiams, ITST
• Raymond Jones, ITST
• Guillermo Munoz, ITBEA

ITS is on a journey to share all technology within the District that supports students. Today we’re learning about the world of AAC—Augmentative and Alternative Communication—and Assistive Technology, or AT. We will discuss technology tools, low, mid, and high tech, that support learning and improve communication, engagement, and participation for thousands of our students every day. Whether you're an educator, a family member, or a service provider, today’s conversation is for you.

For more information visit the following websites:

• Special Education Instruction / Assistive Technology
• PrAACtical AAC
• Project Core – A Stepping-Up Technology Implementation Grant Directed by the Center for Literacy and Disability Studies

Host:

• Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager

Los Angeles Unified Guests:

• Malika Ferrell, Assistive Technology Assessor
• Steve Kim, Assistive Technology Coordinator
• Erin Hong , Language and Speech Coordinator
• Stacy Hotchkiss, Language and Speech Specialist
• Nashana Steele, Language and Speech Specialist

Date: March 29, 2025

Location: Beehive

Time: 9-3 pm

Welcome to a very special episode of the IT4ED podcast. Today we’re diving into the electric atmosphere and unforgettable moments from the inaugural LAUSD Esports Competition and iDREAM Showcase, held on March 29th at the Beehive!

Over 50 schools joined us this season, and after a thrilling playoff run, 16 powerhouse teams, 8 from middle schools and 8 from high schools, battled it out for the ultimate bragging rights and the trophies!

The energy was absolutely off the charts. With over 700 attendees including students, families, educators, college reps, community partners, and top LAUSD leadership including members from our executive, the Beehive was buzzing all day long.

And it wasn’t just about the competition. From sim car racing and VR dodgeball to drone flying, digital fabrication, music design, and even hands-on PC building, the iDREAM Showcase delivered next-level experiences. Oh, and let’s not forget the epic Marvel Rivals matches inside the legendary iDREAM trailer.

A huge shoutout to our champions, Franklin High School, and Maclay Middle School, for taking home the LAUSD Esports trophies and making history.

So, buckle up, because in this episode, we’re bringing you behind the scenes of one of the most exciting days in LAUSD esports history. Let’s go!

Host:

• Youssef Elias, School Systems Manager, Los Angeles Unified

Guests:

• Various attendees at the event