5:15PM Monday Developmental Class (K-8)

5:15 Class for Players in Grades K-8

The Developmental Class is an engaging chess course tailored for both beginners and aspiring tournament players rated under 1000 USCF, focusing on building a strong foundation through progressive lessons on opening principles, tactical motifs like pins and forks, middlegame strategies, endgame essentials, and tournament preparation including time management and game analysis. With interactive puzzles, live demonstrations, guided practice games, and personalized feedback, participants will enhance their strategic thinking, boost confidence, and see measurable improvements in their play—whether winning first games or climbing ratings—while developing skills like patience and decision-making that extend beyond the board.

Students who have an interest in chess with only a basic understanding of the rules
Students who have only played chess at home
Students who have not competed in a formal tournament
Students who have competed in a tournament and are rated under 1000 USCF

If your student is a complete beginner (never played or unsure of piece movements), consider our free Kids' Night! Coaches and others are on hand to teach how the pieces move in a welcoming environment and help you decide if the developmental class is the right next step.

Sean has been playing chess on and off since he was 6 years old. He founded the chess club at his high school and has a passion for introducing new players to the game. He enjoys showing his students how to find killer tactics in their games, as well as sharp openings where they can put their tactical vision to use. Sean is a highly-regarded and award-winning coach at the Columbia Chess Club, and he has taught hundreds of students in after-school programs across the midlands for several years.

Non-Member rate for classes is $80/mo. If you are a Paid Columbia Chess Club Member, your rate is $60/mo. Information about becoming a Paid Member is located here: https://columbiachess.org/membership

Our chess classes meet once per week on a flat monthly subscription fee, billed at the beginning of each month for the upcoming month, to avoid variable billing. If you join in the middle of a month, you first charge will be pro-rated based on the number of classes remaining in that month. Classes are sometimes not held due to major holidays or in rare emergencies like severe weather or instructor issues, so months may have 3-5 sessions depending on the calendar. For new students, we'll refund your enrollment if you are unsatisfied after your first class. Thereafter, there are no refunds, credits, or prorations for holidays or cancellations. You may cancel your subscription at any time before the next billing cycle, but please note that no refunds will be issued for any classes or months already paid for.

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