In a move that embodies inclusivity and innovation, Pied Piper School launched its first ever esports team during the Michigan High School Esports League’s Spring 2024 Season.
“I believe that all students should have opportunities to be a part of a team atmosphere and collaborate with other students to achieve a goal,” said Ashlie O`Connor, Pied Piper Esports Coach and Instructional Technology and Data Specialist at Alpena-Montmorency-Alcona ESD
MHSEL and PlayVS (MHSEL platform), are proud partners with the Special Olympics North America and the Special Olympics of Michigan to run the official Unified esports league for Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools.
The Pied Piper Falcons competed in the Unified esports league over an eight-week season this past spring 2024.
The Pied Piper esports team has brought together students with special needs alongside general education students from Alcona Community Schools, Alpena Public Schools and Tawas Area Schools. This new program provided an opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds and abilities to collaborate, compete and build lasting friendships.
Lauren Grulke, Pied Piper Principal, was excited to offer this opportunity to her students. “Esports provides a unique and inclusive opportunity for students with disabilities,” Grulke said. “The virtual playing field creates new pathways for our students to redefine ability and engage with peers.”
Pied Piper School is operated by the Alpena Montmorency Alcona Educational Service District. The initiative reflects the AMA ESD’s commitment to innovative educational practices that cater to the diverse needs and interests of its students.
“I enjoy watching the players experience gaming and working with other students from different districts,” said O’Connor.
Last school year, Pied Piper’s Esports Team had four players enrolled through their transition program from three different districts that spanned over 65 miles.
By embracing esports, Pied Piper School not only tapped into the immense popularity of gaming but also leveraged it as a tool for social integration and skill development.
A national survey indicated that an average of 45% of students involved in esports haven’t participated in any other school extracurricular activity (sport, leadership, club, art, etc.). The survey also found students involved in esports have seen dramatic improvements in socialization, communication, leadership skills, mental health and sportsmanship.
O’Connor explained she wanted to form a Unified team and compete in the Unified Esports League (through MHSEL) because she believes all students should have the opportunities to be a part of a school based program.
She further stated how by the creation of the Pied Piper Falcons, the student athletes are able to collaborate, learn and develop skills through a school activity – that they otherwise wouldn’t have had the opportunity.
Pied Piper School serves students who are Moderately Cognitively Impaired, Severely Cognitively Impaired, Severely Multiply Impaired and Autistic Impaired. Students range in age from 3 to 26 years.
Last season was just the beginning for the Pied Piper Falcons as they are excited to continue to level up and compete.
Create a safe space for your students to pursue esports, develop social skills and contribute their talents to a team; learn more about how to get involved with the Official Unified Esports League for the Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools run by MHSEL and PlayVS in partnership with the Special Olympics!
Written by Maggie Helmer, Assistant Director of Esport with support from Ashlie O’Connor, Pied Piper Esports Coach Press Release
Link to Original Media Release
[Photo Information (Left to Right) D.J. Williams, Dakota Rouleau, Garrett Card – Not pictured Kobe Barrie] Partner district players: Alcona community schools teammate – Abel Birk, Alpena Public Schools teammate – Timothy Hoggard and Tawas Community Schools Teammates – Mark Regius and Tommy Spires.