State gets chess grants for 37 schools, about 750 students

BALTIMORE (Map, News) - Checkmate!

About 750 students in 37 Maryland schools are expected to pick up the pawns, bishops and rooks next year as part of a new initiative to get chess in schools.

Citing research that chess can improve critical thinking skills, the state Department of Education announced Thursday that chess-playing programs throughout Maryland will receive grants of up to $10,000.

“Participating in an extended learning chess program can assist students with developing critical thinking, self-esteem, social skills and other necessary skills to be successful in school,” state Superintendent of Schools Nancy Grasmick said in a statement.

Anne Arundel and Baltimore counties, in addition to Baltimore City, will host chess programs next year.

Arbutus Middle School is teaming up with the University of Maryland Baltimore County to give students a love of the game, school principal Kendra Johnson said.

Some students already play chess, but Johnson wants to get more involved.

“It’s a great opportunity for our students to engage in critical thinking, problem solving and strategy,” she said. “You can take that and transfer it to any area.”

Johnson said she hoped working with UMBC chess players will give her students exposure to great chess minds.

“My kids are very competitive, and I don’t think kids understand that chess is very competitive,” Johnson said.

She also has assigned a popular teacher to the chess program — Daryl Walsh — with the hope that he’ll be a draw for the students.

“We are going to present it as something fun, as something intellectual and as a competition,” Johnson said.

mmcilroy@baltimoreexaminer.com