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Critical Thinking
Chess teaches students how to evaluate situations before making decisions.
Chu's Chess
Meet the Director
Growing up, poverty and limited access to educational opportunities shaped Tommy's perspective and inspired his mission to enrich the lives of children through education.
Before earning his bachelor's degree, Tommy began his journey in chess education at Wing Chess Academy, an institution known for developing national chess champions. During his two years there, he gained firsthand experience teaching chess and behind-the-scenes insight into the training and strategic development that help young players reach their potential.
Tommy went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Social Work. Driven by a desire to serve underserved communities, he joined Teach For America and later spent two years teaching in the KIPP School District, where he strengthened his passion for providing students with rigorous, engaging instruction.
Combining his experiences in chess, education, and working with underserved communities, Tommy founded his chess program with a mission: to inspire the next generation of thinkers through chess, creating opportunities for students to develop critical thinking, confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love of learning.
The value beyond the board
Why Schools Choose Chu's Chess
A thoughtfully structured enrichment program that develops capable students while making afterschool programming simple for educators.
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Focus & Concentration
Students practice sustained attention while solving engaging challenges.
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Confidence
Students build confidence through personal improvement and achievement.
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Sportsmanship
Respect, patience, and gracious competition are emphasized every lesson.
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Easy for Schools
We provide coaches, equipment, and structured lessons that require minimal effort from school staff.
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Engaging & Fun
Students look forward to each session through interactive lessons and friendly tournaments.
Experienced Coaches
All Equipment Provided
School-Friendly Scheduling
Fun Tournaments
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inclusive curriculum for every experience level
K–8
every age, every classroom, every student
100%
coaches background-checked and vetted
All
boards, pieces, and lesson plans included
ONE CLASS, SHARED GROWTH
Our Program
Students learn side by side through a thoughtful curriculum while coaches adjust instruction, questions, and challenges to help each child keep growing.
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Chess Fundamentals
Students build strong foundational skills regardless of experience.
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Critical Thinking
Students learn to analyze situations and make thoughtful decisions.
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Strategy & Tactics
Lessons gradually introduce planning, tactical ideas, and pattern recognition.
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Friendly Competition
Students regularly practice through engaging games and mini challenges.
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School Tournaments
Each session concludes with exciting tournaments that motivate students and celebrate progress.
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Growth for Every Student
Our curriculum adapts naturally so beginners and experienced players continue learning together.
Our lessons are designed so students of varying experience levels can learn together in one engaging class.
A dependable enrichment partner
Designed for Schools
Built for principals, after-school coordinators, and enrichment program managers who want a polished program without adding administrative work.
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Experienced Instructors
Skilled chess educators lead structured, engaging sessions for every ability level.
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Background-Checked Coaches
Every coach is carefully vetted to meet the expectations of your school community.
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All Chess Equipment Provided
We arrive with boards, pieces, clocks, and lesson materials ready for each session.
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K-8 Focused Program
Age-appropriate instruction grows with students from first moves to competitive play.
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Simple Communication and Registration
Clear coordination and a straightforward enrollment process keep administration light.
We make it easy for schools to offer a high-quality chess program without creating additional work for administrators.
Contact Us
Let's Start the Game
Whether you're a parent, educator, school leader, community member, or simply interested in what we do, we'd love to hear from you. Questions, ideas, and conversations are always welcome.