District Chess Program Thrives: Over 200 Students Compete in National Chess Day Scholastic, Securing Top Spots in Houston Area

Aldine ISD’s chess program has become a source of pride and accomplishment, spanning 32 elementary, intermediate, middle, and high school campuses. Over the past two years alone, 16 additional campuses have joined, demonstrating the popularity of this powerful learning experience. The chess program offers students much more than the thrill of competition; it builds their mental alertness, focus, and sense of community while instilling invaluable life lessons in winning, losing, and sportsmanship.

Each week, after-school chess clubs across the district, managed by AISD’s Advanced Academics Department, gather to practice strategy, sharpen focus, and connect with friends. Under the guidance of dedicated coaches, students prepare for local competitions, four of which are held annually across Greater Houston. These Saturday tournaments draw eager young chess players from throughout AISD, fostering a competitive spirit balanced by camaraderie and mutual respect.

National Chess Day Tournament

The season’s highlight occurred last month when Eisenhower High School hosted the National Chess Day Scholastic, drawing an impressive 340 participants, 200 of whom were from Aldine ISD. This well-attended event was organized by Betzabel De La Rosa, district chess coach and FACE district liaison, with the Advanced Academics Department. It was a true community affair, with families cheering on their chess players as they made moves that tested their skills and resilience. Aldine ISD shone brightly, with eight of its schools earning top places:

High School

1st Place — Eisenhower High School – College Prep
2nd Place — Carver High School
4th Place — Aldine High School
5th Place — Blanson High School

Middle School

1st Place — Impact Leadership Academy
5th Place — Hoffman College Prep

Elementary

2nd Place — Impact Leadership Academy
5th Place — Stehlik Elementary School

Annual AISD Chess Championship Tournament Set for May 2025

As the school year draws close, excitement builds for the Annual District Chess Tournament, set for May 17, 2025, exclusively for Aldine ISD students. The event will bring together chess enthusiasts from across the district, offering everyone a chance to compete, whether or not they have a formal chess team at their school.

None of this success would be possible without the dedication of the coaches and the Advanced Academics Department staff, including Wendy Chiang, district chess coordinator and principal secretary at Marcella Elementary School; Melody Benson, executive assistant to Dr. Susan Pelezo; Dr. Pelezo, executive director of the Advanced Academics Department; and De La Rosa. Their commitment to developing young minds and competitive spirits has fueled the program’s rapid growth and undeniable success.

Do You Want to Start a Chess Club at Your School?

For individuals interested in starting a chess club at the school, email Chiang ([email protected]), De La Rosa ([email protected]), and Benson ([email protected]), who are ready to help you bring the excitement of chess to your campus.