NYC Schools Launch 2025 Minecraft Education Challenge
NYC schools invite K–12 students to join the Minecraft Education challenge, focusing on sustainability and creativity, ending 2026-01-16.
New York City's public school students can now enter the sixth annual Minecraft Education Battle of the Boroughs. Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos announced that submissions for this year's competition are open until 2026-01-16. The Minecraft Education initiative, partnered with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and PlaNYC, encourages students to develop future-ready city spaces.
Participation & Requirements
Students from grades K–12 are eligible to participate in teams of up to five. Multiple teams from each school can enter, but submissions must be facilitated by school staff. The first round involves creating alternative designs for reimagining Sunset Park, Brooklyn, reflecting NYC's sustainability initiatives.
Key facts
- Submission period for the Minecraft Education challenge: Open until 2026-01-16.
- Eligible participants: K–12 students in NYC public schools.
- Team size: Up to five students, multiple teams per school allowed.
- Focus: Reimagine Sunset Park, Brooklyn, aligned with PlaNYC goals.
- Top teams advance to an e-sports qualifying round for the Mayor's Cup.
Impact / What's next
This competition not only fosters creativity and innovation among young New Yorkers but also enhances their computer science and critical thinking skills. The challenge culminates in the Mayor’s Cup, where borough champions will compete in the spring. Supported by New York City Public Schools, the initiative provides entry-level training for educators and comprehensive support to incentivize participation.