This past year, 24 schools participated in the CYO Chess Program where children from pre-K to 8th grade of all ability levels experienced the benefits of Chess. Youth Chess has been proven to increase IQ, improve memory function, help develop higher levels of creativity, simultaneously exercise both sides of the brain, help prevent and increase a child’s problem-solving skills. Also, amongst the most affordable youth programs.
This program has been designed to make it as easy as possible to bring to your school community. Each new program to sign up will receive a starter kit for you to keep at the school. The instructors will be sent to your school based on the schedule you provide.
The CYO Chess program has been a welcome addition to the Catholic Youth Organization. Schools and parishes that have introduced the program have seen positive experiences among their students, families, and communities.
To start a CYO Chess Program in your school: Contact Seth Peloso at: (646) 794-2050 or at [email protected]. You will be put in contact with one of our Chess Program Partners to determine the schedule for your program.
Be prepared to discuss: (1) The day(s) of the week you wish to have the program (2) Time of day (3) Age range of students
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the program? CYO partners with two organizations: Chess at Three and Premier Chess. The cost structure and participation attendance requirements differ by partner.
Chess at Three (Grades PreK-8):
The cost for one-hour instructional classes and play is about $10 per student per session
Schools typically will hold 8-12 sessions per school semester
Minimum of 13 participants is needed to hold class
Premier Chess (Grades K-8):
The cost for one-hour instructional classes will be a flat fee of about $175
No Minimum requirement based on flat rate.
How do I determine age requirements and groups?
Age groups can range from K-8. The recommendation is to form groups of students in grades K-4 and 5-8 so the class is structured for age-appropriate learning.
Is there a minimum/maximum number of students required to form a program?
Chess at Three: Minimum of thirteen (13) participants is needed to hold a class,
Premier Chess: Minimum the flat rate requires no minimum. whether ten (10) or sixteen (16) participants, the rate remains the same.
How do we pay for this program?
CYO will bill school accordingly, based on vendor provided and the number of sessions held at your school.
How do students register?
Students should submit a registration form to the school. Registration is handled at the school level. CYO will send an invoice to the school.
What supplies are required?
Your school will receive ten (10) chess sets and a demonstration board. No other supplies are necessary. this is for the school to keep.
What about insurance and Safe Environment?
All vendors meet the requirements for the safe environment program.