Chilean high school's 'Minecraft'-inspired math program lands global innovation award finalist spot

A high school in Rengo, Chile, has been named one of the top 10 most innovative schools globally, earning a spot as a finalist for the World's Best School Prizes 2026. The Liceo Bicentenario de Excelencia Oriente is competing in the Innovation category for its unique pedagogical approach, "Matecraft."

This innovative method merges the logical structures of video games with mathematical learning. Students engage in missions, challenges, and problem-solving activities designed to make math more accessible and engaging. The program aims to transform education by leveraging popular digital tools for academic purposes.

Mónica Alvial, the school's director, highlighted the achievement as validation of years of systematic work focused on continuous improvement and pedagogical innovation. She emphasized the collaborative effort behind the success, involving school leadership, teachers, support staff, students, families, and external collaborators. The recognition underscores the school's commitment to developing new strategies to enhance student learning outcomes.

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This achievement validates years of systematic work oriented toward continuous improvement, pedagogical innovation, and the constant search for new strategies that allow us to strengthen our students' learning.