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 Events
Support the Team in Person
Join our next two community events and help support the I.S. 318 chess program.
Community Event
Williamsburg Chess & I.S. 318 Alumni Event
Join alumni, families, and friends at Radegast Hall for casual chess, a BLITZ competition, raffle prizes, and a fundraiser for the I.S. 318 Chess Team.
- Wednesday, June 3, 2026 • 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM EDT
- Location: 113 N 3rd St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
- Admission: $30 general admission
Fundraiser Night
I.S. 318 Chess Team at the Brooklyn Cyclones
Spend a summer night at the ballpark with the I.S. 318 Chess Team and support the program through this special Brooklyn Cyclones ticket offer.
- Saturday, June 13, 2026 • 6:00 PM
- Location: 1904 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
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.