Chess-Ed After-School Programs, Camps, Workshops, and Tournaments

Chess-Ed After-School Programs, Camps, Workshops, and Tournaments offers after-school programs, camps, workshops, and tournaments focused on chess. Specific activities include chess camp sessions, KUMBAYA scholastic tournaments and events, and the CHESS-ED KUMBAYA SCHOOLS-OUT WORKSHOP. The program includes professional chess instruction and offers exciting chess experiences throughout the year.

• Ages: 6–13 years old
• Schedule: Chess camp sessions run in 5-day blocks, with morning options on weekdays

CHESS-ED was founded in 2003. The leadership team includes Shiva Maharaj and Nick Polson. Staff credentials include Shiva Maharaj, an International FIDE Trainer and International Certified Trainer, and Nick Polson, a highly recognized professor in the Booth Ph.D. Program at the University of Chicago. The program’s mission statement is: “Inspiring critical thinking and confidence through after-school programs, camps, workshops, and tournaments. At CHESS-ED, we teach skills that last a lifetime: focus, patience, and problem solving.” CHESS-ED is the sponsor of KUMBAYA scholastic tournaments, workshops, and chess camps, and it is described as a premier provider of chess enrichment classes in schools that offers turnkey chess solutions at schools.

The program features high quality enrichment programs and chess events, professional chess instruction, and an emphasis on bridging the gap between Artificial Intelligence and chess, including a connection to Karpov's Queen Sacrifices and AI research. All schools and programs require vaccination and compliance with their COVID policies, and attendees must not have COVID or exhibit any COVID-related symptoms, with masks listed as optional.

Last updated May 26, 2026.