As Supervisor of Instructional Technology, Maria Muhlbauer serves as the Technology Department liaison for district Esports teams. With a background as a school librarian and STEM/STEAM program advisor, she looks forward to growing the BPS Esports program and providing new opportunities for students.
Esports
About
Buffalo Public Schools launched Esports as a pilot program at School #207 in winter of 2024. Back for its second season in spring 2026, BPS Esports has expanded to include teams at four district high schools. These teams will have the ability to compete in statewide leagues as well as scrimmage with other Western New York Esports teams.
eSports Mission
The Buffalo Public Schools Esports Program aims to provide a dynamic, inclusive, and educational environment where students can excel in competitive gaming.
Our mission is to foster teamwork, strategic thinking, and personal growth through esports, while promoting academic achievement and preparing students for future career opportunities in the rapidly expanding esports industry.
We are committed to creating a supportive community that celebrates diversity, encourages positive social interactions, and empowers students to reach their full potential both in and out of the game.
Schools and Advisors

Maria Muhlbauer | Program Facilitator
Lafayette | 207

Ryan Barrett (ITC) | Advisor
iPrep | 198

Andrew Franz | Advisor
South Park | 206

Heidi Gruber (ITC) | Advisor
DaVinci | 212

Patricia Wojtowicz | Advisor
Gaming System | Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch is a versatile video game console well suited for school-based esports programs, offering flexible play options that support both individual and team-based competition. The system can be used in handheld mode for practice, tabletop mode for small group play, or connected to a TV or monitor for organized matches and spectating. Its detachable Joy-Con controllers and support for additional controllers make it easy to accommodate multiple players, while popular competitive and cooperative titles—such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Splatoon—encourage teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. With its accessible design and age-appropriate game library, the Nintendo Switch provides an engaging platform that promotes collaboration, problem-solving, and digital citizenship within a school esports environment.





