RETSD Early Years Students Build Community and Creativity in Division-Wide Minecraft Challenge

On June 2, 2026, students from 28 River East Transcona School Division (RETSD) early years schools came together virtually for the RETSD Early Years Esports Minecraft Build Challenge, a day focused on creativity, collaboration, and community.

Throughout the day, students worked in teams to design and build outdoor community spaces in Minecraft that care for Mother Earth, ourselves, and each other, inspired by Indigenous teachings of Mino-Pimatisiwin, the Good Life.

With participation from all 28 schools, over 500 students participated division-wide in this collaborative learning experience.

Leading up to the event, students engaged in three weeks of pre-learning focused on the land, community, and design thinking. On Challenge Day, they applied their learning through collaborative builds that incorporated natural elements, accessibility features, and spaces designed to support both people and the environment.

Student excitement and engagement were evident throughout the day. One student described the experience as “the best day ever,” while another shared that “it was really fun to work together as a team and build some really creative ideas.” Students consistently highlighted collaboration, noting that “it was fun building with friends and helping each other build creative things,” and “I liked working together on it.”

Students also demonstrated thoughtful and inclusive design choices in their builds, with one explaining how they “made a wheelchair ramp… to get into the building,” reflecting a focus on accessibility and community.

Teachers across the division observed high levels of engagement, collaboration, and perseverance. One teacher noted that “students were super engaged and on task the entire time… building cooperatively,” while another highlighted how “students helped one another throughout the day.” Another teacher reflected that “it was inspiring to see their creativity, dedication, and hard work come to life,” reinforcing the meaningful impact of the experience on both students and educators.

The challenge supported key learning outcomes, including creativity, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication, while authentically connecting to Indigenous perspectives.

The RETSD Early Years Minecraft Build Challenge continues to grow as an innovative learning experience that brings together digital tools, student voice, and community-centered design—empowering students to imagine and build a better world.