Mission Statement

Chess in the Schools is a nonprofit, educational organization dedicated to improving academic performance and building self-esteem among inner-city public school children. Chess is a powerful teaching tool that can break through barriers to help the most disadvantaged students learn skills that translate into academic and lifelong success. Over the past two decades, we have seen how an effective chess education curriculum can change lives. But, learning chess is just the first stebut no one will dispute that the numbers are unsatisfactory. This appallingly low statistic is even lower for minority students and those who live in poverty. Many education experts agree that increasing the high school graduation rate starts with early intervention. Chess in the Schools believes that elementary school students need to develop basic analytical skills that lead to academic success throughout their school career. To develop these skills, Chess in the Schools teaches the complex game of chess to thousands of New York City public school children every year. The academic benefits of learning chess are extensive. There are a number of studies that support the belief that chess enhances memory, boosts spatial and numerical skills, increases problem-solving capabilities, and strengthens logical thinking. (Dullea 1982; Margulies 1991; Liptrap 1998; Ferguson 2000) Students who learn chess through the Chess in the Schools are using the skills acquired through chess to achieve academic success, more likely to attend school on a regular basis, and creating lasting friendships during chess tournaments and after-school clubs.