Chess is a tool for teaching other skills as well, such as concentration and critical thinking.
And it can help build student self-esteem. As you window-shop on Saturday at the Park Lane Mall in Reno, Nevada, you might notice a group of tables set up in the main mall. There, you will see children and adults gathered around, staring intently at chessboards. They're playing this centuries-old game thanks to Project Chess, a program of the Washoe County School District and run by a group of very dedicated volunteers. Project Chess is the brainchild of Irene Dixon-Darnell, a caring woman who dedicates her life to helping others.