"All the best games are easy to learn and difficult to master" - Bushnell's Law
be.next Game Design and Digital Art Academy, established in 2015, is part of the Manteca Unified School District be.tech Academy Program, a tuition free, dependent charter school.  

be.next is a fully accredited and college preparatory Video Game Art and Design program, located on the Lathrop High School campus.  The program is open to all students in Manteca, San Joaquin County, and surrounding counties.

Our program includes classes on 3D modeling, level design, computer programming, character design, practical art and costume/prop making, STEM/STEAM maker space, as well as college preparatory core academic classes.  Credit recovery options are available for students enrolled in the program.  

With an emphasis on project based learning and hands-on labs, our academy delivers college and career prep courses through a rigorous game design process, integrated across the curriculum.  It is unlike any other program in the state!

The be.next program includes:
  • individualized learning plans
  • project based learning
  • hands-on labs
  • 100% college preparatory programs
  • career training 
  • credit recovery
  • flexible core classes with both online and instructor led sessions
  • support for students will special needs
  • high level of parental involvement and communication

Interested in a tour or have more questions?  
Interested in joining be.next Game Design and Digital Art Academy?
Visit the main be.tech academy website, email the Project Lead Instructor, or talk to your counselor.  The enrollment forms may be downloaded here.




Current Projects:

Character Design Workshop: Shop Safety

Game Design 1:  Intro to Game Psychology

Game Art:  Human Models in Maya