Sandy Springs Education Force funded two grants at Riverwood International Charter School this year to support their LabDash and Esports programs.
LabDash: Expanding STEM Learning
The LabDash program brought engaging, hands-on STEM lessons to elementary feeder schools, strengthening the academic foundation of future Riverwood students. Club members researched and presented topics aligned with Georgia Standards, which created a shared learning experience across the school cluster. For example, LabDash students led interactive STEM outreach programs, including Dancing to the Rhythm of Our Hearts and the Bubble Show, inspiring younger students with creative science demonstrations. LabDash also integrated IB learning traits to foster curiosity and critical thinking.
Additionally, the grant supported Riverwood’s Science Olympiad team, which recently medaled in three events.
Esports: Building a Competitive Team
Sandy Springs Education Force also played a key role in supporting Riverwood’s official Esports Team under the GHSA, offering students a structured environment to develop competitive gaming skills. With Esports generating over $16 million in college scholarships, this program provides a valuable pathway for students to explore digital technology careers and scholarship opportunities.
Via PlayVs, Riverwood students competed in fall and spring seasons, developing teamwork, communication, and strategy skills. Approximately 30 coed players participated. They practiced twice a week and competed against high school teams across the state. The team worked toward state rankings, with individual player stats available for recruiters and scholarship consideration.
The Esports program also expanded outreach by live-streaming gameplay, allowing parents and peers to support the team while learning about the technology behind competitive gaming.
SSEF STEAM Showcase: March 5th, 6-8 pm
Riverwood’s LabDash and Esports programs will be featured at Sandy Springs Education Force’s 15th Annual STEAM Showcase on March 5th, 6-8 PM at North Springs High School. Attendees can explore student-led projects and also interact with humanoid robots, test flight simulators, and experience AI training simulations. Sandy Springs Education Force thanks our premier sponsors: RangeWater Impact Foundation, GFiber, Mercedes-Benz USA and Sandy Springs Together. Learn more by visiting the STEAM Showcase website.
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