The Moreno Valley Unified School District (MVUSD) is a NASEF affiliate in California. The District follows the NASEF framework which focuses on scholastic esports as a means to teach a wide array of career and personal skills. They recently recognized one student with the MVUSD NASEF Scholastic Award.

The MVUSD NASEF Scholastic Esports Award honors one student a year who demonstrates leadership, mentorship, and initiative in esports—building college and career skills through marketing, content creation, event planning, logistics, and more.  To be eligible for nomination, the student must demonstrate a meaningful and positive impact on their peers, their school’s esports program, and the wider community.

NASEF joins MVUSD in congratulating Maximo Garcia, a standout student at Canyon Springs High School in Moreno Valley, who has been honored with the 2025 MVUSD NASEF Scholastic Esports Award, recognizing his exceptional dedication to integrating esports with academic and career development. Through his visionary leadership, Maximo has not only doubled the size of the school's esports program but also created a nurturing environment where students can cultivate essential college and career skills.

Maximo's multifaceted contributions align seamlessly with several of NASEF's career pathways:

• Content Creation & Journalism: Maximo spearheaded the development of engaging content, including social media posts and promotional materials, effectively telling the story of his team and the broader esports community. His efforts mirror roles such as journalists and media content creators within the esports ecosystem.
• Marketing & Entrepreneurship: By implementing strategic marketing initiatives, Maximo enhanced the program's visibility and appeal, attracting new members and fostering community engagement. His work exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit and marketing acumen that are vital in the esports industry.
• Organizational Leadership: Acting as a de facto general manager, Maximo coordinated behind-the-scenes operations, from event planning to team logistics, ensuring the smooth functioning of the esports program. This role is akin to that of organizers and team managers who are pivotal in professional esports settings.
• Coaching & Mentorship: Maximo dedicated time to coaching his peers, providing guidance and support that helped many students improve their skills and find a sense of belonging within the esports community. His mentorship reflects the critical role that coaches play in both player development and team cohesion.

Maximo Garcia's achievements underscore the transformative power of scholastic esports as a platform for educational and professional growth. His commitment to excellence and community building serves as an inspiring model for students and educators alike, illustrating the profound impact of integrating esports into academic environments.