Broward County Public Schools and Chess4Life are partners on a hands-on approach to chess. The Broward Chess Initiative affords all second grade students and all K-12 chess clubs with access to high-quality instruction and participation in a program that engages young minds, teaching critical and creative thinking skills.

If you would like to receive occasional chess news updates, please email Dr. Kourtni Gober.

Yes, Chess! 

Did you know there are more possible chess games than atoms in the known universe? We say yes to chess! Executive functions including memory, self-control, and problem-solving are all used and practiced in chess.  Essential skills of focus, choices, and planning are all taught and then played out on a chess board.  Players have the unique opportunity to build their mental stamina as well as recover from a mistake and show persistence.  

Chess Now!

Students at Broward County Public Schools have been actively involved in chess thanks to an initiative including direct services from Chess4life. All K-12 students and teachers have access to high-quality instruction and resources, including video lessons, puzzles, and games.  

Students and teachers can find the chess app on Clever.

Classroom

Teachers have found the online platform with short instructional videos helpful in teaching chess topics.  Students enjoy the practice and play options.  Second-grade classrooms around the district have included chess instruction in their schedules.  Chess and Math lessons mapped directly to the BEST standards can be found under the Additional Resources tab in the

Teacher Zone on the Chess4Life app on Clever.  We know that Math Matters!  

Chess Elective Classes

Growing in popularity, chess elective classes give students the opportunity to learn and play chess during school hours.  Teachers have access to the Chess4Life curriculum and have the freedom to design and implement classes to meet the needs of their students.   

After-School Clubs

After-School Clubs are happening around the district and include elementary, middle, and high school students. Coaches use the club design and curriculum to help students improve their game and work together as a team at tournaments. There is a club meeting near you. 

Online Classes

Live online after-school chess classes are available throughout the school year with instruction and practice led by Chess4Life coaches.  Classes typically begin in September and run through June.  Check back here for more information on the dates and times of classes.  

 Afterschool Authorization Form pdf   

This form is required to participate in the after-school chess club meetings, online chess sessions, and Saturday tournaments. Please send the completed form to civicengagement@browardschools.com.

Tournaments

Broward School District tournaments are a fun way for students to use what they have learned in a competitive setting. 

School-Based Chess Events!

Central Park Elementary hosted a "Family Chess Night" on December 7th with more than 65 people attending, including Principal Turner engaged in chess activities. 

Win, Draw, or Learn!  

We know that practice makes progress and that a loss is an opportunity to learn.  Along with the skills of decision-making and persistence, positive life skills are encouraged at a chess board. Goal setting, respect, and sportsmanship are just a few of the positive life skills that are woven into the chess curriculum.