An after-school chess club at Pleasant View Elementary School is helping students develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

Joseph Russell, a third-grade teacher at the campus, sponsors the program for students in grades 2-5. The club meets regularly after school.

Academic research consistently highlights the benefits of young people learning to play chess. Through the strategic board game, students build logic and reasoning skills, strengthen critical thinking and problem solving, and improve memory and concentration. Studies have also linked chess participation to improved academic performance.