Bullitt East High School (BEHS) is buzzing with innovation, thanks to Nathan Tackett, a dynamic teacher whose passion for game design is creating exciting, real-world opportunities for his students. Mr. Tackett teaches the foundational classes of the Charger Game Design Academy: Game Design and Development Principles, Introduction to Programming, and Advanced Game Development and Publishing.
Celebrating Student Achievement with a Retro Twist
Mr. Tackett believes in celebrating student success in a memorable way. Upon the completion of each pathway class, he presents his students with a unique, custom-designed award. This isn't just a certificate, it's an award modeled and 3D-printed after a classic Atari game cartridge!
News of this incredible award quickly caught the attention of the community. A local company was so impressed that they offered to create and donate 100 game cartridges to the program. The following year, they happily donated 100 more, ensuring every student has a tangible, lasting memory of their achievement. This innovative approach to recognition also captured the attention of the gaming world, leading to Mr. Tackett being featured in the debut issue of Retro Gaming magazine!
Announcing the Launch of Studio 332: A Historic Milestone
Mr. Tackett is truly moving forward, celebrating his students, and shining bright, and his innovative spirit has culminated in a historic event.
On Friday, December 19th, BEHS will host a special signing ceremony as the students in the Charger Game Design Academy formally establish Studio 332, Bullitt East High School’s new student-driven game development studio.
The inaugural cohort, the Founding Members, will sign the Studio 332 Charter. This crucial document officially creates the studio and defines its purpose, expectations, and guiding principles for all future student developers.
A Student-Authored Vision: Our first team of creators authored this charter, setting the creative values, professional standards, and collaborative ethos that will shape Studio 332 for generations of students to come.
Real-World Production Experience: This ceremony marks a significant milestone: the launch of a fully student-led game development studio built on innovation, responsibility, and real-world production experience.
We are honored to recognize this historic beginning and celebrate the students who are establishing Studio 332 and its legacy. This is a shining example of how our district is preparing students for the future by offering unique, high-quality career pathway opportunities!