THE KNIGHT SCHOOL CHESS ACADEMY

"My son LOVES this program. It is so positive and the instructors care so much."

"Coach and staff extremely kind and welcoming. Students comfortable in surroundings and appeared eager to learn. Also, love the location."

"Both of my boys were in The Knight School and have developed a love for chess. My youngest LOVED chess Friday's so much he refused to miss school!"

"Coach was always positive, direct, helpful, encouraging, nicely dressed, and challenging for the kids. Coach, and the Knight School style of challenges and teaching, really helped make chess so fun!"

"Great coach and the program is wonderful."

"My son has learned so much about the game of chess from The Knight School but more importantly, he has learned how to follow rules, how to be a good winner and loser, good sportsmanship, and has developed some very good friendships along the way. "

"My son has fun and loves it and is always excited for the next class, and he is actually learning!"

"My kindergartner loves chess and had a really great experience. "

"Our child absolutely LOVES your program, and her love for chess has grown tremendously. It has given her an activity she feels confident in and is eager to continue. "

"My son looked forward to chess each week. He was excited to learn new things and to interact with varied age groups. He loved the instructors and everything he did! Looking forward to next year. "

"The Knight School provides a fun and engaging chess-learning experience for our students."

"I'm so sorry we didn't start earlier! My child loved the Knight School curriculum and coaches. Staff was so well organized and professional. My child was so motivated to earn belts. He learned sportsmanship and even gained enough confidence to participate in the Tournaparties! I can't thank you enough for bringing this to our school!"

"My kindergartener enjoyed going to Chess Club every week and really looked forward to it! My child says "Coach was always kind and made things fun. I love playing chess!""

"My daughter really enjoyed her time with the afterschool Knight School program. She was always eager to put on her purple Knight School t-shirt and get after the incentives. "

"My son had so much fun at the Knight School and learned a lot! He loved the little reward bands and was very proud when he managed to get a new one. He liked that he even got to play with the instructors. I can totally recommend this course! We will for sure return for the next school year. "

"My son really enjoyed going and learning. He would come home and want to play chess against his dad and show him how to make the new move of the week. I think he liked being competitive, as he is super competitive in all activities, but the fun way they taught and encouraged them. "

"My son learned more than we could have imagined! His skill level is beyond his age. He can play anyone regardless of their level with confidence!"

"My son has truly enjoyed learning the game of chess and improving his skills. The instructor was awesome and the kids in the class all really enjoyed him."

"My son loved learning chess and looked forward to chess club every week!"

"Both of my Sons really enjoy the class and have learned so much about Chess. They always want to play and teach us at home. Nothing but positive comments from them. "

"Excellent experience, my son loves chess and has learned so much."

"My child looked forward to chess every week! He learned a lot and loved earning the bracelets. He continues to use his skills from chess club and plays at home a the time. "

"The Knight School program is absolutely wonderful! The coaches are fantastic, bringing boundless enthusiasm and a contagious love for chess to every session. They teach with smiles on their faces, creating an environment where kids are not just learning but genuinely excited to play. Their passion and positivity make every class a delight, and you can see the kids' happiness and eagerness to learn grow with each lesson. Highly recommended for any young chess enthusiasts!"

"My son loved going and learned so much. He became better at not only chess, but sportsmanship. He cannot wait to join again next year."

"My son loved it. He had never played chess before. Not only did the club teach him the game, but we found ourselves playing chess at home. "

"My daughter had a really good experience and enjoyed learning how to play chess. This gave her confidence in her skills. "

"My son enjoyed himself!"

"Our coach was so positive and gave constructive feedback about my son's progress. He looked forward to and enjoyed going to chess club every week! "

"Coach was very instrumental in teaching my boys how to play chess and now they thrive in playing chess and really enjoy it. Coach was very patient and kind to my sons. I believe that makes the game of chess both fun and appealing to the children and he is a great teacher. Kudos to Coach!!!"

"Great coaches, discipline, teaching and fun! "

"Fantastic experience and our daughter began teaching me chess. Will do this again next year "

"Coach was just wonderful! My son really enjoyed playing and learning new moves. They really helped with his confidence level. We will truly miss The Knight School!"

"As a Grandparent, I have seen the interest in chess that my grandson has developed as well as his friends. As a substitute at Sternberger, I have seen the chess class taught and was so impressed with the presentation, the classroom management and the excitement of the students to learn new moves and play chess together. As an educator in Guilford County schools for decades, bringing chess into the classroom is one of the best educational moves GCS has made for added enrichment. "

"My son loved the program!"

"I'd recommend The Knight School because of the Coach! He's very knowledgeable about chess of course, but he has a way with the students that is very important!"

"My son fell in love with chess. The Knight School and the Coaches have made a great program. The bands keep kids interested, the weekly online tournaments give them a variety of people to play against and the challenges to beat the coach and promotion day really drove my son to excel. My son just started playing a few months before he started Knight School and now he watches chess videos and practices every day and is legitimately beating me on occasion and I played in tournaments as a kid. "

"My daughter had a blast in your chess club. We saw the improvement day by day! And she loves the coaches. Thank you for an awesome academy and for support kids even if they're not financially able to pay the whole tuition."

"My boy loves the Knight School. He always looks forward to it and is excited to share what he did. "

"My son enjoyed every Thursday it was offered. We hope to take advantage of the tournaments more next year."

"Amazing coaches working with my grandson! They have gone beyond just teaching him chess and met my grandson where he is at with deep care and respect. He loves them and is excelling in chess as a special needs child. Big gratitude for the positive influence they have had on my grandsons life. "

"Awesome experience. My son had a blast and loves chess. He talks a lot about it. The teaching methods are great. It has helped my son in areas other than chess as well. "

"My son loves chess club- everything about it!- and has learned so much! "

"My son loved the chess program and gained a ton of skills!"

"My first grader learned so much and is now excited to play chess against her parents and friends"

"I had 2 sons in chess club this year an they loved it. Please bring it back to Ascension next year - my son would love to continue!"

"Learned a lot and great instructor ."

"Our son has learned a lot about the game and also built his confidence"

"My child enjoyed learning how to play and loves to play when she can. It’s given her something to connect with others that play. "

"The program overall is amazing. Coach Sal and the team teach in such a way that makes chess fair and exciting for all. I was truly impressed."

"Amazing experience for my child where now he enjoys attending the chess competitions. Friendly and caring staff. "

"My son has loved the Knight School for the past 3 years and enjoys the summer camps too. He’s gained self confidence and grown his strategic thinking skills. The coaches are well-organized and encouraging. We recommend it often to others and will be having our younger son join next year. "

"My son absolutely loved every minute of it and I really hope they come back to Whitney next year! I know a lot of the kids at Whitney loved it as well and hopes it comes back! My son can’t wait for the summer camps! "

"Great school and company! We sign up for every after school club when offered. Great to work with and super responsive and helpful. My children have learned Chess very quickly and really enjoy it! "

"Our son is learning great strategies, is excited about how he learns and especially loves the bands as a way to explain to me how he is progressing."

"A great after-school program. My son loves it."

"We love the Knight School. Coach is always available, whether I use text, a phone call, or email. He is a role model to my son. I don't need to ask my son, each school year, if he wants me to sign him up for chess, because the answer is yes. Rather, the question is how many classes are we registering for. "

"I have two children in the program (1st & 3rd grade). Before starting The Knight School, neither had any experience with chess but wanted to try since they had friends participating. We are seven months into the program and both boys love going to chess club and look forward to it each week. Coach does a great job teaching a wide range of ages and skill levels and the curriculum makes it fun. We now play chess at home as a family and it has been a new hobby we can all enjoy together. "

"The Knight School rounds a program at my second grader’s elementary school. The instructor is really passionate, patient and cheerful. 😀 My little guy’s self confidence has grown enormously! Thanks you Knight School!"

"The Knight School has been great for my son. He has developed in his chess strategy and skills to the point that I can no longer beat him! He has also benefitted from the time spent with kids who have similar interests and reinforcement of good sportsmanship. He always looks forward to chess club!"

"My daughter absolutely loves attending The Knight School program through her school. The environment is fun, positive and inclusive. She is learning so much about chess, sportsmanship and strategic thinking. Overall, a really great experience for her and we can see her confidence boosting. Thanks!"

"My 2nd grader has been in chess club for over a year and still looks forward to every meeting! He has fun and learns every time!"

"The staff are absolutely amazing. I can feel their energy and passion when I'm around them, and I can tell by the enthusiasm of my child whenever she talks about chess club that it's infectious. I'm so grateful to the team who makes this club so special for my daughter and her schoolmates."

"Our family loves the Knight School. It’s a great match for my son. He has learned so much, feels good about his accomplishments, he’s supported, he learns skills to cope and thrive in life. Thank you to our Knight School and all the coaches. "

"You have made my 6yo and 8yo boys LOVE chess. While I barely qualify as a chess rookie, my kids can give me a run for my money these days and they can even play each other without discord! It is nothing short of a miracle, so thank you!"

"Our son was enrolled in after school chess for the last 1.5 years (starting in pre-k4) and loved it! The kids seemed had so much fun and learned so much! I was very impressed with how quickly they learned the chess pieces, their moves, and strategies. He loved it, and the instructors were great. Highly recommend The Knight School! "

"My son loves The Knight School club! He entered as a beginner and has learned so much in so little time! He enjoys playing with other kids, I've seen his confidence increased playing the game. Totally recommend it for your child."

"My son has loved his experience with The Knight School Dallas! Coach Burns has been awesome and has taught him so much strategy. He is always excited to go every week! "

"My child loves going to his weekly chess club and is excited to show us what he learned when he gets home. He also likes collecting bands for new chess achievements. He has learned so much and I couldn’t recommend this Knight School enough!"

"My son is loving this program! Even as a beginner, the support and encouragement from both the leadership and fellow participants has been nothing short of amazing. The wrist band incentives are a lot of fun and have been challenging my son to meet new goals within the community! He was excited to get back to chess after the winter break!"

"My child needed to learn to slow down! I believe chess club is doing that. He’s taking more time and thinking through his next move on the board and in other areas as well. Prayers answered. Also the 'belts' are great motivators!!"

"Coach is amazing and a wonderul, positive, uplifting influence on our boy. He loves to play chess and has enjoyed the little time he has been able to spend in the classes. "

"The teachers are always so friendly, upbeat, positive, patient and supportive/encouraging! My son looks forward to and loves going to chess club each week and has learned so much! I’d highly recommend The Knight School for anyone who’s interested in learning how to play chess, regardless of their current skill level. It’s a great opportunity to learn in a welcoming and supportive environment!"

"Our son thoroughly enjoys coming to chess club and has learned so much since he started as a new chess player and club member last school year. Chess club has definitely sparked an interest and eagerness to play chess at home and in his free time with friends. "

"Our son thinks his chess coach is the best coach of all time. He loves chess and she made it even more fun and challenging for him! "

"I'm incredibly grateful for the positive impact your chess school has had on my son. The engaging environment and dedicated instructors have sparked his love for chess and boosted his confidence. Thank you for creating such a wonderful learning space."

"This experience has helped my son increase his confidence, self esteem and learn about sportsmanship. He has also made lots of friends."

"Our son is now obsessed with chess. He started playing less than a year ago and has learned a ton in the first semester of the Knight School program. He comes home every day wanting to play and talks about the different ways to checkmate opponents and win pieces. He even had a chess birthday party, which is amazing for a 6 year old. I highly recommend trying to get the program in your school."

"I have 2 boys who started chess in first grade. They both love it! Every time they have chess after school they say they had a great time and want me to register them every opportunity. I watched them play in the tournament and everyone had a lot of fun and it was low key."

"We are thrilled with the chess school! Our son joined at age 6. His older cousin joined a year prior to him and we were also amazed by his progress. Chess quickly became our son's favorite activity. It's not just a game; it's helped him focus, be patient, build his cognitive skills, and learn valuable skills. His dedicated instructor has been amazing. We highly recommend the chess school to any parent seeking a fun and educational experience for their child. It's been a great journey for our family!"

"I have been extremely happy to have my children joining the Knight School! In no time they learned playing chess when they had never done so before, while they developed their social skills through the positive reinforcement, incentives and instructions provided. The pace of the class is slow enough to ensure active learning and the coaches really care! Thanks so much!"

"My kindergartener chess nut loves chess club and looks forward to it each week thanks to this school! He has learned so much, grown in his skill and confidence as well as sportsmanship! I can’t recommend this program enough!"

"Our son loves TKS and his knowledge in chess has grown tremendously. He has also learned other values such as teamwork, patience, focus, and setting goals all which help in and outside of chess."

"My son really looks forward to chess camp every week. It’s taught him some great skills in a fun environment."

"My sons experience has been very positive! Enjoys the learning environment very much!"

"Our son is growing his skills and confidence thanks to this program."

"My son adored this whole experience."

"My son looks forward to his Knight School chess session every week, is excited about the games and wants to continue learning! A parent couldn’t ask for more!"

"It was so much fun for my child who learned new techniques and met new friends!"

"We were unsure at first that our kindergartener would be a good fit, but he is loving it! He is learning the game, strategy and having a blast doing it."

"Coach really is the best! She's engaging, sweet and so much fun! My Kindergartner has picked up chess SO fast thanks to The Knight School! We couldn't be happier and plan to stay for many more years!"

"We are very happy with the Knight school! My son is so excited about chess on Tuesdays. He asks to play chess with us each night before bed time. Their tournaments are a great way for kids to interact and compete"

"The Knight School provided my son with a fun way to improve his chess playing skills. He looked forward to learning new moves and strategies, while having friendly competition with his friends and earning the “belts”. The sessions have also carried over to bonding in our home, with friendly father-son and brother vs. brother chess matches. Thank you Knight School!"

"My child loves attending chess club and the "Splatterdays" tournament. He has started challenging everyone that he can. As a parent, I appreciate the fun, low stress environment, but also the attention to good sportsmaship. The Knight School has been such a positive addition to our son's life."

"I have been absolutely amazed by the positive impact coach has had on my child's chess skills and overall development. Coach displayed a remarkable ability to connect with my child and create a nurturing learning environment. He possesses a unique talent for making chess fun and engaging, capturing my child's attention and enthusiasm. Coach has an exceptional ability to break down complex chess strategies and tactics into digestible concepts suitable for my child's age group. I've noticed my child's cognitive abilities and decision-making skills improve significantly, which I attribute to Coach's holistic coaching approach. The Knight School goes above and beyond to motivate and inspire their young chess players, fostering a love for the game that will last a lifetime."

"My son cannot stop talking about how much he loved his class and how much he loves playing chess!"

"My son has been attending the Knight School for a full year now (at his request to sign up each track) and when he started he was a novice with no real knowledge of the game. He has learned so much and he really enjoys participating! When a child is enthusiastic about attending an after school club and they come home and tell you what they learned and then they are eager to go back... that says it all! The only problem is now I can't beat him in chess!"

"Learning to play chess with The Knight School has been a godsend. Having such an excellent and personable instructor is amazing. Our daughter is obsessed with the role model presence of her chess instructor, and that along with learning to play chess has been a very rewarding. When your child refuses to leave school early because they do not want to miss out on chess class, it speaks volumes for the relationships being built and how interesting the instructor makes the program."

"Coach does a stellar job of teaching children chess AND teaching strong sportsmanship skills. One of my proudest moments as a parent was watching my son during a chess tournament patiently help his opponent who was stuck think through his next move. This showed me his love of the game beyond the pleasure of winning. Additionally, it is convenient as a working mom to have a weekly afterschool program which starts immediately after the school day ends to give me a little more time to work while my son learns and has fun with friends. This is one of the few programs we have continued through the pandemic due to its high quality. Grateful for the coaches and everything The Knight School does to help my child grow and to celebrate that growth. Highly recommend this program."

"My daughter has been enjoying The Knight School for several years. She talks about collecting wristbands, and asks me to play chess with her. She has been teaching me! I will continue with this for as long as we can. I love seeing her so excited about a game that has been intimidating for so many. "

"It was amazing! Our kids loved it and learned so much! We were so grateful for the supportive and positive environment that the coaches created for our kids. Thank you so much!!!"

"My 8 year old son learned so much during this class. He was excited to tell us about what he learned every Tuesday and show us his new bracelet when he earned one."

"The Knight School has given my child a welcoming and positive environment to learn a new skill. Every session was followed by my child’s excitement and eagerness to share his advancements and fun moments!!!"

"My son has had a WONDERFUL time at The Knight School. He went from knowing nothing about the game to being completely obsessed and excited about his growth. He loves going to meetings and teaching family members how to play. He's 6 years old and beats me regularly! Excited to have him learn such a neat skill. Thanks so much!"

"My 9 year old has gained so much from the Knight School. He has had an absolute blast and has gained confidence, drive, and many friends from his experience this past year. The Knight school is inclusive, encouraging, and fun! The belts they earn truly inspire and drive the kids to keep learning and challenge themselves. Chess is such a beautiful connecting activity for kids and parents alike. My son has really become passionate about playing and teaching his friends as well. We will definitely be enrolling in the Knight School and recommending them to friends next year."

"My son is usually shy, but throughout this season with The Knight School I've noticed his confidence building.  I also noticed that he also improved his focus, his ability to wait longer with patience, and to kindly give guidance or correction during a chess match with family members.  He naturally thinks ahead several steps, but chess has helped him slow down and think about the results of his actions.    It's been neat to see him find ways to show how much he does enjoy chess. While we were on vacation he was excited to find a mini traveling chess set.  Of all the things to pick out, he picked that out and practiced several different times during our trip.    We are pleased that he is trying something new, that no one else in the family has tried.  We are proud of his confidence building through chess."

"The coach is awesome - he is very good teacher. My son likes him so much!"

"Our daughter first started playing chess this year as a 2nd grader and has thoroughly enjoyed the program provided by The Knight School! She looks forward to it each Wednesday and the bands she earns based upon games she wins or skills she learns. It has taught her that even when she loses, she has learned a new lesson which will improve her for her next game! It has been so fun to watch her learn this game and have so much fun doing so from the weekly school course to the Saturday online chess play and the live area event at the end of the semester! She looks forward to participating next year and continuing her chess education!"

"The Knight School was a perfect place for our second grader to learn the game of chess. The instructors were caring and really motivated him. I loved that he was able to participate online in addition to in person. "

"What a blessing The Knight School has been to our entire family. Our kindergartener can't wait until it's Chess Day at school. Having to remember his bag has helped teach responsibility. He's learned sportsmanship, and he has so much confidence in himself and his abilities. He has connected with both grandfathers as well - finding ways to play games and learn from them. It's absolutely priceless."

"My children absolutely loved the Knight school. I love that they play chess at home over watching tv to keep their minds sharp. They will be returning and telling all their friends about the Knight School!"

"Coach has been amazing with our son! He went from feeling out of place to having something super fun to look forward to each week. He is proud to play chess and making new friends at chess. I am so thankful you are so inclusive. This has been a very positive experience for us in every aspect! Thank you!

"Our son looks forward to chess class every week. He has used what he's learned in class to teach many of his aunts, uncles and friends how to play chess. We love the program and how well it is tailored to little minds like his."

"My son has attended TKS since 2019. He’s 9 and he’s played at his school, in online summer camps, in person summer camps, in the Varsity club, and now an invitation to Masters is pending. He learned everything from his TKS coaches, and he keeps asking for more chess. Great experiences!"

"The Knight School is a great program! Our triplet boys started the program this year and love it! It's a great IQ and character building program. It's worth the investment because we can see their eyes light up on Tuesday's for Chess!"

"We have been so happy with TKS. Coach is an allstar instructor. He does a great job keeping parents informed, and is genuinely interested in the learning and success of the students. We've noticed big improvements in our son's chess skills, and he looks forward to class each and every week!"

"My son has thoroughly enjoyed his time in "Varsity" chess. It's the highlight of his week, and he's had the chance to play with kids from all over the world. The instructors are fun and engaging. Highly recommend!"

"The kids LOVE going to Knight School and always come home encouraged and ready to play. I love that they have learned chess and I'm seeing its benefits translate to school work."

"This group is extremely organized and top-notch for all levels of chess players. My son has learned a ton in a short period of time, and his desire to play more has grown immensely. I would definitely recommend this group to any aspiring chess player."

"My son loooves The Knight School! He’s so happy when I pick him up and he’s feeling more confident overall as a kid bc of the skills he’s gained."

"I could not be happier with the Knight School! My kids have not only learned chess, but have learned sportsmanship, perseverance, and creativity too. I highly recommend the Knight School to my friends!"

"This experience has been phenomenal! My son is so encouraged by the coach every single session, and he has grown to absolutely love chess. Coach's positivity and joy is so contagious! I’ve never been a part of any club or class of any kind with a better leader!"

"Ethan is in second grade and has attended The Knight School for three years, including summer camps. His skill at chess continues to steadily improve, and this year he was asked to join the city-wide varsity team! He loves chess and asks to participate in every event—what more could a mom want!"

"My son has learned so much in just a few short months. He truly enjoys playing chess and I can tell how much it's helped him learn how to focus and analyze other things in his life, like schoolwork!"

"We have been a part of TKS for 3 yrs. I now have 3 children that participate and love staying for chess! I can see how their chess knowledge is overflowing into other areas of their lives. My son who struggles with confidence and self esteem is learning to navigate his anxieties and stress through chess. I love that kids learn how to manage risk through a fun and challenging way. Thank you for fostering a safe and in person way to learn, have fun, and develop friendships."

"This is my son’s favorite after school activity! Learning chess has given him the confidence to keep trying hard things!"

"Lily is 10 and she loves chess club. She likes making new friends and competing against team members. It is great for critical thinking skills. This is her favorite activity!"

"The Knight School Chess club at Palencia has been great for our Kindergarten son. He has thrived, had a blast and learned so much. He is enjoying playing and beating his parents and grandparents in the game. We will definitely sign up next year!"

"Coach Brooks makes learning chess very fun. My son is always so excited on Chess day and feels like it is such a privilege to participate. I’m incredibly impressed how much my son has retained about the game in a few lessons. Excited to sign up next year!"

"The Knight School chess club is the highlight of my daughter's week. She has been challenged, respected, and taught a lasting appreciation for the game of chess. The wristband system is a terrific tool for celebrating small wins and allowing her a visual representation of her growing skill set. The skills, resilience, and courage she gained will be with her always."

"Our kindergartener had zero chess experience and has come out of classes with confidence and a keen sense of learning chess. He’s even taught his mom to play!"

"Chess is a highlight of my daughter’s week! She learns new skills, has an awesome time, and always looks forward to going. It is so easy that it’s at the school too, much easier on us parents! "

It has been so fun to see our 7 year old’s passion for the game of chess EXPLODE this year! He’s going to teach Mom how to play this summer, and I can’t wait!"

"The Knight School is my son’s very favorite activity. He does invite his friends. I just picked his chess set up off the floor where we had family over and he was teaching them to play chess. We plan to stay with Knight school as long as possible."

"My son absolutely loves The Knight School! He looks forward to it every week and is learning a ton. Highly recommend it."

"The Knight School has been wonderful for my son who is in 1st Grade. He has learned the game of Chess and also strategizing skills as well as sportsmanship. It has done wonders for his self-esteem. A++++ program!"

"My son looked forward to chess each week. He was truly eager to practice and play any family member/friend that would play him. He even beat a few adults! The Knight School certainly helped him learn new skills and build confidence!"

"My kids have grown in their chess skills so much these past 2 years. Most importantly, I saw my 6 year old go from throwing fits and crying at making a wrong move to accepting his mistakes and being able to shake hands and "good game" the opponent when he lost. My 8 year old daughter is more confident too. Coach is so very kind. The class is fun and orderly all at the same time. Coach has had great communication with us parents as questions arise. Thanks so much for all the at home resources. The parent video lessons are super!"

"Our son absolutely loves the after-school chess program. He knew nothing about chess before he started the program (1st grade) and, by the end of the school year, he's quite the chess player! Now he's looking forward to attending the summer camp sessions."