We are proud to recognize Jesse Aguilar, a high school educator at Frederick Douglass Academy VI in Queens, New York, as our June 2025 Educator of the Month. From building a brand-new STEM lab to leading one of the city’s most competitive esports classrooms, Jesse’s story is one of creativity, persistence, and student-centered innovation.
Jesse’s Journey in Education: From Far Rockaway to the Frontlines of STEM
Jesse grew up as a second-generation immigrant in Far Rockaway, NY, before moving to Valley Stream, an experience that brought a sudden shift in educational expectations and resources. “That move came with a culture shock, transitioning from a part of New York City that often feels forgotten to a place where education was taken very seriously.”
After graduating from Nyack College with a degree in History, Jesse wasn’t sure what path to follow, until a chance decision to apply for the NYC Teaching Fellows program. He was accepted and went on to earn a master’s degree in Education from Pace University.
His first year of teaching began during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I quickly realized how little I knew about teaching online and how essential technology is in today’s classroom.” Now, six years later, Jesse arrives at school at 6:30 AM, fueled by coffee and a commitment to designing lessons that meet his students’ learning styles and needs.
“The LocoRobo team was always receptive to feedback. They adapted the curriculum based on what my students enjoyed and needed, ensuring that the number one priority remained student learning and engagement.”
Challenges: Building a STEM Program from Scratch
Frederick Douglass Academy VI had no dedicated space or equipment for STEM education until Jesse stepped in. “With the vision of our principal and the freedom I was given to contribute my input, we were able to build a modern, fully equipped computer lab for our STEM classes.”
LocoRobo donated a 3D printer and collaborated with Jesse to develop an engaging and relevant game design and esports curriculum. “Initially, it was hard to visualize the long-term goals of a game design or esports class within the school. But the team at LocoRobo was open and receptive—they listened to my ideas, supported my vision, and helped shape the program.”
By listening to students and collaborating closely with the LocoRobo team, Jesse tailored the curriculum to student interests, transforming uncertainty into enthusiasm.
Implementation: From Game Design to Esports Branding
With support from LocoRobo, Jesse helped design a four-year STEM sequence at his school. “Thanks to LocoRobo, we now have an afterschool club that students regularly attend, excited to learn something new each day. The esports club, in particular, has provided a space where students come out of their shells, make lifelong friends, and explore gaming from a new, academic angle.”
This past year, students studied effective game design principles, explored character development, and created their own esports brands to pitch to real companies for potential sponsorship.
“The LocoRobo team was always receptive to feedback. They adapted the curriculum based on what my students enjoyed and needed, ensuring that the number one priority remained student learning and engagement.”
Impact: Confidence, Creativity, and Real-World Readiness
Through the LocoRobo curriculum, students developed critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills. “They’ve learned that creativity isn’t limited to artistic talent—it’s also about collaboration, identifying individual strengths, and building something together.”
Students now confidently present their work, break down team projects, and explore the mechanics behind games they used to take at face value. “Now, they look at games with a deeper understanding—asking not just ‘Is this fun?’ but ‘Why do I enjoy this?’ or ‘What was the designer thinking?’”
Outcomes: From No Program to a School-Wide Showcase
Jesse’s work has helped grow enthusiasm and interest in STEM throughout the school community. “LocoRobo’s curriculum has been instrumental in attracting new students to our school. “They’ve helped create an inclusive space where students feel like they belong.”
Today, the school boasts a thriving afterschool esports club, a four-year game design sequence, and a growing STEM reputation in NYC.
“The positive outcomes from our partnership have helped us secure multiple grants to further develop our STEM offerings. We’ve gone from having no STEM program to one of the most competitive and sought-after esports classrooms in our school.”
Aha Moments: Scratch, Scholarships, and Student Success
One unforgettable moment came during a student showcase. “A student demonstrated how they used basic Scratch coding to design a video game for a visiting NYC councilwoman. They also explained how the curriculum supported their creative process and critical thinking development.” That student later received a full scholarship as a result of the interaction.
Jesse has also seen students who struggle in traditional academic settings thrive in the esports classroom, revealing confidence and creativity in new and exciting ways. “These moments remind us why programs like these matter.”
Jesse’s adaptability, dedication, and belief in student potential exemplify the heart of LocoRobo’s mission. We are honored to celebrate Jesse as our June 2025 Educator of the Month.
