Aldine ISD Chess Program Sees Rapid Growth and Student Success

Participation has quadrupled since 2020, with students excelling across tournaments.

The Aldine ISD’s chess program is not just growing, it’s thriving. Since the 2020-2021 school year, the program has seen a 400% increase in participation, growing from just five teams to 29 across the district. Today, every team competes in area tournaments, providing students with not just academic skills but also invaluable life lessons in focus, resilience, and teamwork.

“Chess helps children develop concentration and observation skills,” said Dr. Susan Pelezo, executive director of advanced academics. “Students learn that if they don’t watch what is happening, they won’t be able to respond, no matter how smart they are. Careful observation teaches them to strategize and plan ahead.”

Scholastic Houston Chess Association April 2025

Open to Every Student

Any Aldine ISD student can join their campus chess team — no prior experience required. Programs are designed for all levels:

• Beginners, who are learning the rules and basics,
• Intermediate players, who focus on tactics and strategy, and
• Advanced players who prepare for tournament competition.

Practices are typically held before or after school, with students grouped by ability to ensure challenging and fair play.

“No student is ever turned away,” Dr. Pelezo emphasized. “If a campus wants to start a program, all they need is a willing adult to serve as a coach. My office provides equipment, training resources, tournament fees, transportation, and coach stipends to make it possible.”

District Support and Community Champions

Impact Leadership Academy Chess Team at 2024 Nationals

The Advanced Academics Department plays a crucial role in ensuring that each campus has the resources to build and sustain its chess programs. Each year, Aldine students participate in at least six tournaments, including district-hosted events at Eisenhower High School, Impact Leadership Academy, and rotating campuses for the year-end competition.

Additionally, community partnerships, such as the one with Aldine ISD Police Chief Paul Cordova, further strengthen the program and instill confidence in its future. Cordova is one of its biggest champions, often joining practices and playing matches with students.

Competitive Success

Chief Paul Córdova playing chess at Blanson CTEHS.

While the district does not compete in official University Interscholastic League (UIL) chess puzzle contests, AISD teams are active in area and regional tournaments, consistently bringing home top placements.

At the 2024 National Chess Day Tournament, for example, Eisenhower High School and Impact Leadership Academy students placed first in the high school and middle school divisions, showcasing the competitive success of our students. Aldine students also claimed four of the top five spots among high schools, outperforming teams from Houston ISD, Klein ISD, and private schools.

At the elementary level, schools such as Kujawa, Stehlik, Conley, and Carmichael are frequent standouts at tournaments.

Beyond the Board: Academic and Social Benefits

Research supports what Aldine educators see firsthand: chess develops skills that extend well beyond the game.

Benefits of chess include:

• Enhancing problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
• Building self-confidence
• Strengthening visualization and analysis
• Promoting strategic and creative thinking
• Improving concentration and focus

“Chess teaches youth to make the right moves on the board, in the classroom, and in life,” Dr. Pelezo said. “It also creates a sense of belonging. Students find community in their teams, build friendships, and gain pride in representing their schools.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Aldine ISD aims to continue expanding chess opportunities for students at every level.

“My vision is to build a sustainable, districtwide program that not only fosters a love for the game but also develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and perseverance in our students,” Dr. Pelezo said.

Chess, she added, is for everyone — not just advanced learners. “It’s a universal game that meets students where they are and helps them grow. In Aldine, our goal is to make sure every student who wants to play has the opportunity and support to succeed.”

Sharing Our #AldineStory

The growth and success of Aldine ISD’s chess program reflect the district’s broader commitment to offering opportunities that prepare students for academic and lifelong success.

“Chess is not about creating an elite program for a select few,” Dr. Pelezo said. “It’s about creating opportunities for all students to develop confidence, focus, and critical thinking through play. That’s our #AldineStory.”