Jackson Academy’s After School Chess Team recently claimed first place at the K-3 MAIS State Championship, defeating seven other teams in impressive fashion.
The young competitors meet Wednesdays as part of JA’s comprehensive After School Program, which offers students supervised care and enrichment activities until 5:30 p.m. Under the guidance of their teacher and International Chess Master Dave Ross, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic planning skills through the ancient game. Dave Ross has led JA’s Chess Club for many years. He also teaches chess in the Middle School as an elective.
Assistant Chess Coach Dudley Stancill, who came through JA’s Chess Club before advancing to Middle School, has been instrumental in the After School team’s success. At the MAIS State Championship, Dudley also competed in his age division, placing seventh among the 61 students in the 7th-9th division.
Chess offers remarkable developmental benefits for young children, from building concentration and memory to teaching patience and resilience. Chess teaches students to envision multiple options and the outcomes of their choices. Players learn to think ahead, accept consequences, and handle both victory and defeat gracefully—life skills that extend far beyond the chessboard.
The cognitive demands of chess support academic growth, while the game’s etiquette teaches sportsmanship and respect. Importantly, children absorb these valuable lessons naturally through play.
JA’s After School Program continues providing quality enrichment opportunities that challenge young minds and build confidence through activities like chess.
