From Esports to Film, Fullerton School District Students Showcase Creativity at Annual FSD Fest

From high-energy esports showdowns and student-produced films to live performances, robotics challenges and interactive art experiences, more than 600 students from across the Fullerton School District took center stage April 17-18 at Cal State Fullerton’s Titan Student Union for the ninth annual FSD Fest.

The award-winning event brought together all 20 TK-8th grade schools for two days of innovation and exploration, highlighting what’s possible when students are given meaningful opportunities to lead their learning.

“I keep coming back because the district puts on such fun events,” said Andy A., a student from Richman Elementary who has participated in FSD Fest for three consecutive years, enjoying esports and robotics. “My favorite part is meeting new people – it’s a fun, motivating event where you can connect with others.”

FSD Fest kicked off Friday with Spotlight Speakers, a series of TED-style talks where seven students shared passions ranging from body positivity and geology to singing and sharks.

Saturday’s full-day event featured a wide range of interactive experiences, including competitive esports matchups, where students from across the District competed for the championship title, with Fern Drive Elementary emerging as the top winner.

Attendees also explored the “Wonder of Water” experiences, featuring award-winning student art alongside hands-on music, dance and visual art activities. New this year, the “Jammys” talent showcase brought student performances to the stage, with winners signing gold records.

“I’m really excited to take part in all the opportunities at FSD Fest,” said Sierra C., a Beechwood School student and “Jammys” winner for her singing. “Everyone here is so supportive – it’s a place where you can show your talents and be yourself without judgment. What I love most about Fullerton School District is the sense of community.”

Additional highlights included STEM Nation, featuring robotics, coding and AI challenges, and Global Games, where students showcased original board and arcade games they designed. Students also presented their interests like karate and baking through Passion Agents and tackled team-based challenges in the new Super Sleuths escape room experience. League of Literacy invited students to read, think critically and solve clues in a fast-paced, collaborative setting. The event concluded with Film Fest, highlighting student-created films.

The Fullerton Education Foundation also presented a $30,000 check supporting FSD Fest and the Tiny Home Project, two signature programs led by the District’s Innovation and Instructional Support Division.

“FSD Fest represents the heart of our work – uplifting innovation and giving students a platform to shine,” Assistant Superintendent of Innovation and Instructional Support Jeremy Davis said. “When students are given the space to explore their interests and share their talents, they rise to the occasion and leave inspired to keep learning and creating. We are proud of their work and grateful to our staff and community for making this event possible.”