On the much-anticipated last day of school, Tenafly Chabad Academy students gathered for their first grand chess tournament amid an atmosphere of excitement and camaraderie. Throughout the year, middle school students had the privilege of attending chess classes every Friday, receiving expert guidance from a seasoned chess master. These weekly sessions initiated them into the enchanting world of chess, gradually unraveling the intricacies of the game and transforming them into skilled and strategic players.

Students’ enthusiasm for chess grew under the patient and inspiring tutelage and they gradually honed their skills and deepened their understanding of the game’s complexities.

This culminating event—a school-wide chess tournament—was a true celebration of their dedication and progress. The entire middle school came together, buzzing with anticipation, as each student prepared to showcase their newfound expertise.

Throughout the tournament, the students displayed remarkable strategic thinking, tactical prowess and an unwavering determination to outwit their opponents. It was a testament to the students’ commitment and the expertise of their mentor that some of them had grown into highly adept chess players within a single academic year. The growth was not merely limited to their technical proficiency, but also extended to the development of critical thinking, problem-solving and sportsmanship. The chess classes had become more than just a means to learn a game; they had become a platform for nurturing well-rounded individuals.