Students across Port Chester’s elementary schools are sharpening their strategic thinking and problem-solving skills through the district’s growing Chess Club program, a collaborative effort between Port Chester Public Schools and the Port Chester Police Department.
The initiative began last spring as a pilot program at JFK Elementary School, where approximately 40 students participated in weekly chess sessions. The idea was introduced by Sergeant Kenneth Manning of the Port Chester Police Department, an avid chess player who saw an opportunity to engage students through the game while strengthening connections between students and the community.
Working in partnership with Sergeant Manning, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Colleen Carroll helped bring the program to life by coordinating with schools and identifying funding sources to support the initiative.
Through this collaboration, the district connected with the National Scholastic Chess Foundation (NSCF), an organization that provides chess instructors and materials to schools. Following the success of the pilot program, Port Chester qualified for a grant from the organization this school year, allowing the program to expand to all elementary schools across the district.
Additional support from the Port Chester Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and federal Title IV funds helps cover the cost of instructors and materials, including chess sets and boards.
Beyond the academic benefits, the program also strengthens community connections. School Resource Officers and other members of the Port Chester Police Department regularly join chess sessions with students, playing games and interacting with them as a way to give back and build positive relationships with young people in the community.
Chess Club encourages students to develop strategic thinking, patience, focus, and problem-solving skills, while providing a fun and welcoming environment where they can collaborate and learn together.
“We are evaluating how the program progresses this year through student and teacher feedback, and will explore opportunities for future growth based on student interest and funding availability,” said Dr. Carroll.
For many students, the simple game of chess is opening the door to new ways of thinking, learning, and connecting with others.
