Shugart Elementary has introduced a new opportunity for students through the launch of its first-ever chess team.

This semester, the campus established the program through a partnership between community mentor and retired Garland ISD educator Walter Clinton and librarian Deliyamekia Johnson. Together, they created a space where students can challenge themselves, think critically, and build connections with peers.

The program began through collaboration across Garland ISD. Jonathan Armstrong, Coordinator for Family and Community Engagement (FACE), worked to connect volunteers and mentors with campuses. During that process, Armstrong learned that Clinton was interested in serving as a chess coach rather than a traditional middle school mentor. Armstrong then helped place him on a campus where his experience could directly support students interested in chess.

Meanwhile, at Shugart, Johnson had already noticed that students were becoming interested in the game during free time. That interest helped guide her decision to explore the possibility of starting a chess club on campus.

“I had students consistently choosing chess during free play,” Johnson said. “There was a high level of interest, and that made me want to look into it.”

The club quickly came to life. Available spots filled quickly, with a waiting list forming soon after.

Students began meeting regularly to learn the game, practice strategies, and compete against one another. By the end of the semester, their efforts were recognized during a breakfast celebration that included certificates and awards highlighting student growth and participation.

For Clinton, chess provides a meaningful way for students to strengthen decision-making skills.

“Every time a student sits down to play, they are making dozens of decisions,” he said. “In a single game, they may make 30 or more choices, each with many possible moves. That kind of thinking supports what they are doing in the classroom.”

The game encourages focus and problem-solving skills that carry into academic settings.

“You can teach a child the basics in just a few minutes, and suddenly they’re completely locked in,” Clinton continued. “There’s intensity and focus. It happens naturally.”

The program has also drawn interest beyond Shugart. Lyles Middle School Principal Dr. Ansil Howard attended the awards ceremony and encouraged students to continue developing their skills as they progress to the next level.

“Chess is great for your mind,” Howard said to the students. “Keep playing and keep growing.”

Clinton, Johnson, and Armstrong hope to build on this momentum and expand chess opportunities across Garland ISD, creating pathways for students to continue participating as they move into middle school and beyond.

“This is something that can grow across campuses,” Clinton said. “There is strong potential for more students to benefit.”

At Shugart Elementary, the first moves have already been made, setting the foundation for continued growth and engagement through chess.