The Chess School
58-time National Champions. Featured in Brooklyn Castle.
Building persistence, commitment, planning, and logic that carry far beyond the board.
Excellence
On & Off the Board
Unmatched Record
The nation's most accomplished middle-school chess program — and the only middle school ever to win the High School Nationals.
Beyond the Board
Over 95% of players earn top academic honors. Students lead in government, athletics, music, robotics, and service.
World-Class Coaching
Led by renowned coach Elizabeth Spiegel. We teach persistence, commitment, planning, and logical thinking.
Program Snapshot
Personal Excellence for Every Student
Whether new to chess or highly rated, students find a team that believes in their growth. We turn deliberate practice into confidence — on the chessboard and in the classroom.
- • Structured training, analysis, and review
- • Tournament planning and goal setting
- • A culture of mentorship, teamwork, and community
Upcoming Tournament
BKnights Chess Series
Join us at I.S. 318 on October 20th for our competitive chess series featuring multiple sections for all skill levels.
- • Novice: Unrated | 4 rounds | G/25 d/5
- • Primary: U700 | 4 rounds | G/25 d/5
- • Reserve: U1000 | 4 rounds | G/25 d/5
- • Open: Quads 1000+ | 3 rounds | G/60 d/5
Special Event
Williamsburg Chess & I.S. 318 Kick-off
Join us Wednesday, October 15th at Radegast Hall for an evening of chess, community, and fun from 6-8pm.
- • Location: Radegast Hall (113 N. 3rd Street Brooklyn, NY 11249)
- • Entry Fee: $20
- • Features: Bughouse, Raffle Prizes, Simul Exhibition
Award-Winning Documentary
Brooklyn Castle tells the stories of five members of the chess team at a below-the-poverty-line inner city junior high school that has won more national championships than any other in the country. The film follows the challenges these kids face in their personal lives as well as on the chessboard, and is as much about the sting of their losses as it is about the anticipation of their victories.
Stand with the Knights
Every contribution fuels coaching, travel, and opportunities for students across Brooklyn.