Setting Goals and Looking for Solutions through the Game of Chess

Challenging Students to Think Ahead or Fall Behind

Pine Ridge Elementary School in DeKalb County offered a morning of chess instruction to a small group of 5^th grade students. It was that time of the school year when standardized tests were being scheduled, and 5^th graders were facing the excitement and challenges of moving onto Middle School.

The students were introduced to Mr. Orrin Hudson of BeSomeone, Inc. Through a demonstration, sharing of his personal history and setting up games of chess for small groups, Mr. Hudson encouraged the participating students to focus, observe and form strategies for solving the chess problem in front of them. The teachers joined in by reinforcing the point that the skills students just used to be successful in their chess game are some of the essential skills needed for success in school

Mr. Hudson has received national attention for his motivational work in on the CBS Morning Show, Time for Kids and People Magazine. His efforts were also recognized by the Georgia State Legislature during their 2008 session.