~ Indian Proverb

Chess is a sea in which a gnat may drink and an elephant may bathe.

Chess curriculum is integrated into Grades K-3 and features a world class chess team after school.

In the area of critical thinking, children learn to categorize information, reason by analogy, follow a logical sequence of ideas, recognize patterns, apply general principles, assess whether one general principle overrides another, and calculate and analyze disparate values to arrive at practical outcomes.

In the domain of social development, chess helps children learn to follow the rules, take turns, accept responsibility for their decisions, respect tradition and demonstrate good sportsmanship in both victory and defeat.  They learn that persistence pays off and that discipline and patience are well rewarded in this microcosm of the larger world.

Formal chess instruction begins in the kindergarten grade. Students receive weekly chess instruction in kindergarten for one semester, and in first grade for two semesters. In second grade, students have formal chess classes for one semester. Opportunities for extension and further development of a student’s passion for chess abound at Dalton.  The early morning and after school programs offer chess instruction across all grade levels. Students participate in local, city, state and national tournaments.  Dalton students have been city, state and national champions many times.

We use many methods of instruction. In each class, we utilize verbal, visual, and hands-on activities.  Each child can demonstrate proficiency or seek further guidance. Assessment is constant throughout as the teacher observes the students and asks and answers questions. 

The chess program at Dalton uniquely provides continuous exposure to chess learning and allows all students to be well served.

Dalton Chess News

List of 1 news stories.

  • Checkmate Fun: Dalton Kindergarten Chess Friendly A Resounding Success

    Dalton continued its cherished annual tradition with the Kindergarten Chess Friendly, kicking off the First Program Chess Friendlies series. This cornerstone event in our community celebrates chess education and youth development, bringing together kindergartners, Middle School volunteers, chess coaches, and parent volunteers.
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Archived News

Chess Faculty

List of 1 members.

  • Beatriz Marinello 

    Director of the Chess Program

Chess Photos and Video

  • Dalton Chess Is...

    Beyond the Board: Seniors Reflect on their Chess Journeys

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  • chess - 19

    Dalton High School Students Organize the First Girls’ Chess Initiative Event for K-6 Students

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  • 2021 National K-12 Grades Championships

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  • 2018 Chess Nationals - Orlando, Florida

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  • Seniors Danny Challenger, Reddy Lee, and Tristan Sollecito give a heartwarming and inspiring toast about what their ongoing commitment to Dalton chess has meant to them throughout their many Dalton days. This was their 18th trip to the Nationals.

    Dalton Chess Seniors Give a Fond Farewell

    Seniors Danny Challenger, Reddy Lee, and Tristan Sollecito give a heartwarming and inspiring toast about what their ongoing commitment to Dalton chess has meant to them throughout their many Dalton days. This was their 18th trip to the Nationals.

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  • Chess Nationals 2018 - Nashville, TN

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  • Grade Level Chess Nationals on Orlando

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  • Chess Supernationals - 2017

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  • Girls Chess Nationals in Chicago - 2017

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  • New York State Chess Championships - 2017

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  • K-12 Grade Nationals, December 2016, Nashville

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  • Dalton Chess at Grade Nationals May 2016

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  • 2016 Chess Team in Chicago

    2016 Girls National Chess Tournament in Chicago

    2016 Chess Team in Chicago

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  • Girls' Friendly Chess Tournament December 2015

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  • Photos from the Grade Nationals in Orlando Chess Team Reaches New Heights

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  • K-1 Friendly October 2015

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  • New York State Chess Champions - 2015

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  • Photos submitted by Mr. David MacEnulty, Chess Academy DirectorSpence All Girls Chess Tournament

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  • Chess Team Earns National Recognition

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  • National Elementary Chess Tournament 2014 - Dallas, Tx

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(Grades K-3) 53 East 91st Street
New York, NY 10128
General: (212) 423-5200 | Admissions: (212) 423-5463
General: info@dalton.org | Admissions: fpadmissions@dalton.org

(Gr. 4 Dalton East & PE Center) 200 East 87th Street
New York, NY 10128
General: (212) 423-5200 | Admissions: (212) 423-5262
General: info@dalton.org | Admissions: admissionsmshs@dalton.org

(Grade 5-12) 108 East 89th Street
New York, NY 10128
General: (212) 423-5200 | Admissions: (212) 423-5262
General: info@dalton.org | Admissions: admissionsmshs@dalton.org