Md. Dept. of Ed. To Offer Funding For Chess Programs
Chess Programs Can Occur Before Or After School During The Instructional Day, Or During The Summer BALTIMORE – For the first time, the Maryland State Department of Education will provide grant funding up to $200,000 to support Chess in Maryland Schools. The funding was made available through a budget appropriation in the Governor’s supplemental budget during the 2006 General Assembly.
Any local school system or individual school, community-based organization, or not-for-profit organization that has a desire to offer chess instruction to students in Maryland schools is eligible to apply for one of the estimated 20 grants to support an existing or new chess program. The chess programs can occur before or after school, during the instructional day, or during the summer.
“I am thrilled that the Department has been granted these funds to support Chess in Maryland Schools,” said Dr. Nancy S. Grasmick, State Superintendent of Schools. “Participation in an extended learning chess program can assist students with developing critical thinking, self-esteem, social skills, and other necessary skills to be successful in school and in other aspects of life.”
The grant funding, up to $10,000 a year per program, may be used to support the development, implementation, and evaluation of chess programs; including purchasing curriculum and supplies, costs associated with training staff and volunteers, and costs associated with tournaments and trips to enhance student’s chess experience.
“I strongly believe that Chess Programs are valuable to learning,” said State Senator Ulysses Curry (District 25, Prince George’s County), who was instrumental in getting the funding for this program. “Some research suggests that there is a connection between scholastic Chess Programs and improved academic performance.”
Here is the full article.
This is so exciting!