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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.

“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:

99% Chess had a meaningful positive impact on my students.
95% Practicing chess increased students' self-esteem.
96% Chess enriched students' social skills.
98% Chess developed students' analytical and logical skills.
96% Chess improved my students' math skills.
98% Girls and boys are equally interested in chess in my class.
99% Want Chess in the Schools in their class next year.

2018 Survey, 167 respondents.

Photo Credit: Erik Bardin

Featured Event

19th Annual Chess-in-the-Park Rapid Open

Sep.14.2019

19th Annual Chess-in-the-Park Rapid Open – Save the date! Registration will open in late July. Bethesda Fountain, Central Park at 72nd st. Saturday, September 14, 2019 Sections: Open Championship: Open to players rated 1700 and…

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.