My name is Ms. Johnson and I work with a MIS 1 class. I find that chess is a great tool in aiding children with emotional and learning disabilities to overcome the barrier of reading on a pre-k level to a lower-second grade level. Before chess lessons, the children felt intimidated by books. Now, they use the strategic skills taught in chess to tackle the task of reading.

I can not stop past reluctant readers such as Eric Pagan and Luis Maude from picking up a book and attempting to read it. The goal of becoming a competitive chess tournament player makes the children eager to learn the skills of the game. The children had to become better readers to improve their game and record their scores. The students also researched the history behind chess. This chess program is a key to reforming the school into a place of positive learning. The children are learning how to play chess, how to read and most importantly, how to make correct choices in their lives.

These children will not become victims of their environment. Instead, they will become the role models for those children who come from neglected areas. In these areas children do not have respect for themselves or each other. The game of chess has provided these children with many opportunities. These children with special needs will become intellectuals who will move up a ladder of success due to chess. The game is a stepping stone for the learning process to begin.

I feel fortunate that I was able to witness the growth of my students. Their reading level moved up two grade levels. I hope that more schools in district 10 will begin to set up more chess programs to aid and encourage these underprivileged students.

Sincerely,

Ms. Johnson

This was the first year that my students were involved with Mr. Abrams in Chess Class. I think that chess has played an important part in their lives this year. My students have learned how to play the game. In the past if I were asked "Do you know how to play chess?" I said "Yes." Now I think twice. In September one of my students asked to play against me. I was in for a shock when I realized I didn't know how to play the game. They were using words I didn't understand. They were using strategies I didn't know. It was amazing and yet so inspiring. I even told them that and they thought I was just saying that to make them feel good. I told them that I was being honest. It was a moment to be remembered. Chess has increased their vocabulary, their critical thinking skills and their sense of fair play. They are able to concentrate on a task longer. My students look forward to chess on a daily basis. The tournaments also were inspiring. This year was busy so I didn't get to see the lessons in details but I am hoping this is just the beginning for P.S. 291. Thanks to Mr. Abrams for teaching students long-lasting skills!

Ms. Rivera

The children in chess have improved in their vocabulary. Because of this their comprehension has improved. They have also improved in their problem solving and critical thinking skills. They are now able to do problem solving in which more than one step is involved.

Ms. DiFate

Apreciado

Maestro de ajedrez Alan Abrams,

Me alegra mucho decirle que el cambio positivo que mi hija Diana ha tenido desde que empeso a jugar ajedrez es beneficioso para ella y para la familia.

Gracias le doy por haber elejido a mi hija para este deporte. El ajedrez ha despertado en ella el deseo y el anhelo de querer ser ganadora siempre en todo y el participar en los torneos la a hecho mas responsable e mas motivada en la escuela y en la casa. Estoy muy contenta con este cambio tan postivio. Continuen, lo felicito!

Carinosamente.

Sra Bernarda Esquivel

Desde que ella empezo a tomar las clases de ajedrez, mostro gran interes, y dia tras dia, trata de aprender nuevas technicas.

En cada torneo que ha asistido, ella ha adquirado mas confianza en cada juego que realiza y en si misma.

Ha sabido valorar el significado de competir y de que no siempre se gana. Las derrotas qui ha tenido la han ayudado a mejorar y aprender nuevas tecnicas de juego.

Juan Diaz

Father