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About Us

Mission Statement

Chess in the Schools fosters the intellectual and social development of low-income youth through chess education.

"CIS Values, Goals, and Commitments for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion"

“Before, I thought chess was for people smarter than me but now I feel smarter than before knowing how to play chess. I also have more patience now. Thank you again for going out of your way to come every Tuesday to teach us to play chess.”

- Chess in the Schools Elementary School Participant

Why Chess?

At Chess in the Schools, we believe in the power of chess to change lives. To date, we have taught more than 500,000 of New York City's most underserved children, inspiring them to greater achievement. Each day, we are proud to help kids grow, one move at a time. Our impact is demonstrated by classroom teachers responses to our annual survey:

- More than 96% of teachers reported that CIS’s chess program were effective and that they would want it to return.
- 97% of teachers reported that chess had a meaningful positive influence on their students.
- 85% of teachers reported that their students applied the lessons of chess beyond the chess board.
- 91% of teachers reported the growth of analytical and logical reasoning skills in their students.
- 82% of teachers reported improved understanding of math concepts.
- 91% of teachers reported improved ability to concentrate.
- 94% of teachers reported improved cooperation skills in their students.
- 86% of teachers reported improved social skills and behavior in their students.

2020 Survey

Photo Credit: Erik Bardin

Featured Event

2024 Chess in the Park Rapid Open

Sep.14.2024

The 2024 Chess in the Park Rapid Open will be held on Saturday, September 14th at Central Park’s Bethesda Fountain. Advanced registration is now open! If you have questions about the event, email ssmith@chessintheschools.org Saturday,…

Learn more

Frequently Asked Questions

Q How are School Program schools selected?

New York City Public Schools which have been designated as Title I are eligible to apply for participation in our School Program. If you are interested in participating in our School Program, please click here to send an inquiry.

Q Can any school staff member apply for the School Program?

While any official staff member from a NYC public school can apply, the application process must be approved by and have the full support of the principal.

Q Can my child participate even if their school is not eligible?

Individual students are not eligible to participate in our School Program independent of their school being an official partner. However, NYC students are welcome to register for our tournaments regardless of whether their school participates in our School Program.

Q I live in the NYC Metro Area (NJ, CT, Westchester County), can my school apply for your programs?

Unfortunately, our programs are only available to NYC Public Schools in the 5 boroughs (Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Queens).

Q In order for my child to be eligible for College Bound, is it a requirement to have been a participant in the School Program?

Yes, we typically allow entrance to the College Bound Program to those who previously participated in the School Program. However, exceptions can be made on a case-by-case basis.