What is the be.next Video Game Design and Digital Art Academy?

It’s a be.tech expansion program scheduled to debut for the 2015-16 school year and was created specifically for students in the Manteca Unified School District who are looking to break into the video gaming industry or share their passion for gaming, computer or digital art.

They’ll have a chance to enjoy a unique high school experience focused on computer programming, digital art and game design.

Core academic classes will be delivered via hybrid format, giving students the flexibility and support with online classes that would be supplemented with Internet coursework and direct classroom instructions.

This be.next program is described by MUSD as a “dynamic, immersive, educational experience.”

An open house is scheduled for Thursday at Lathrop High, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Video Game Design and Digital Art Academy is open to incoming 11th and 12th graders.

Those interested along with their parents or community members are encouraged to stop by and learn more about the program.

Folks can also preview the equipment, the computer labs, and meet the staff.

Game design is a unique field of study, and perfectly suited for integrating core subjects into programs based on learning assignments.

The Digital art electives are designed to mirror the art pipeline of a game studio, with lessons on drawing, sculpting, concept art, and 3D modeling using a wide range of software. 

Game design would be done using two different commercial game engines. Students can program and create custom games that could be published online and available as free download.

They’ll have a chance to combine storytelling, programming mathematics, art design, and historical content into one game, in turn, merging all of the core content areas into a single project.

Lathrop High is located at 647 Spartan Way.

For more information, call the school at 209.938.6350 or log on to www.mantecausd.net.