Stevens Elementary students learning through the game of chess!

I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your generous support of the First Move program at our school, Stevens Elementary. Our school is a unique place that meets the educational and social needs of a variety of students ranging from ELL (English as Learned Language), to EBD (Emotionally/Behavioral Disability), to Special Education Resource students, to Advanced Learners (Gifted), to our general education learners.

We are beginning our fourth year with the First Move program, and I remain as excited with the actual results of the program as I was with the promised results when we were first considering adopting the program.

At our school, all second and third graders learn chess with the terrific First Move program. It is easy to use and satisfying for all student players whether they are beginners or have had several years of chess experience. The First Move program teaches sportsmanship, strategy, and provides our diverse population with a common language to build relationships with their classmates.

In addition, I have seen an increase in critical thinking skills, algebraic sense, and problem-solving in my second graders. Finally, I have seen the program “speak” to some students who have had difficulty discovering the joy of learning in some of the more traditional modes of reading, writing, science, or mathematics. Once these students are “hooked,” they are more willing to attempt other academic risks and their sense of accomplishment, their test scores, and even their very attitude towards learning can transform.

The First Move program seriously “works” and it works for all kids, all levels of experience, and all backgrounds. It helps children learn to play chess and find success using real strategy. Further, it helps them to learn from their mistakes or losses and it motivates them to succeed as scholars. Your support of the First Move program has made genuine impacts on my students and their academics. Your support enriches our learning with the tools we gain from chess.

Regardless of our economic, social, or cultural background, regardless of our unique learning needs or experiences, Stevens second and third graders share the common experience of chess. It is chess that gives us yet another tool to build a sense of purposeful learning, achievement, and community. The First Move program has been, and will be, an important component of our successful school environment.

Again, thank you for your support.
Mr. Peterson