Chess club growing in popularity

Orlando Science Schools’ chess club nurtures attention spans, improves academic performance and increases the ability to socialize, officials at the public charter school said.

The club is offered to second- through fifth-graders every Wednesday after school. The younger students meet weekly, as well, and the program — which is at capacity — soon could be extended to high school.

“Chess teaches students valuable skills sometimes more than any other subject,” said Tabitha Rogan, OSS third-grade teacher and chess club adviser. “Chess is a timeless strategy game, so it helps with critical-thinking skills to figure out what they need to do next. My kids take it seriously because they love chess and they love to win.”

For details, visit orlandoscience.org.