This school year marks an exciting milestone for Shadow Ridge High School with the launch of its Digital Game Development Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathway. Taught by veteran programmer and educator Scott Schultz, this new course is designed to introduce students to the dynamic world of game development, blending creativity with technical expertise. Schultz, the driving force behind this program, has spent over four decades immersed in software development. While he has not worked directly in the gaming industry, his journey into programming began with creating simple games. This early passion has fueled his desire to share the field with students, using game development as an engaging entry point into coding, problem solving, and digital storytelling.
“Most kids play video games, and I’ve always seen them as a fantastic gateway into the world of programming,” Schultz explains. “Game development isn’t just about making games; it’s a hands-on way to explore creativity and logic at the same time.”
The Digital Game Development pathway at Shadow Ridge provides a well-rounded experience in game creation. Students work primarily with the Unity game engine and C#, both of which are widely used in the industry. The curriculum ensures a balance between technical skills such as coding, level design, and creative elements like narrative development and character creation. In the first semester, students collaborate on a structured game project, guiding them through the entire development process, from concept to execution.
In the second semester, students take the reins, designing and building their own games. This hands-on approach not only solidifies technical skills but also encourages innovation and teamwork, essential qualities for careers in the gaming and tech industries.
Beyond classroom learning, the program offers industry relevant certifications. Students can earn the Unity
Certified User: Programmer credential, with opportunities to advance to the Unity Certified Associate level. These certifications provide a competitive edge for those looking to pursue careers in game development or related fields. Since the program is still in its early stages, Schultz is working to establish connections with industry professionals. He envisions guest speakers, mentorships, and potential internships that will offer students a deeper understanding of the gaming industry and career opportunities.
Game development is a complex field, requiring both technical prowess and creative vision. Many students find mastering Unity and balancing coding with storytelling to be a challenge. However, Schultz sees these obstacles as valuable learning experiences that build resilience and problem-solving skills.
“Teaching offers so many rewards, but nothing beats witnessing those ‘lightbulb moments’ when a student’s hard work finally clicks,” he shares.
With a strong foundation, industry-standard tools, and an inspiring educator at the helm, Shadow Ridge High School’s Digital Game Development pathway is poised to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in the ever-evolving world of technology and gaming. Who knows? The next big indie game success story could start right in this classroom
