Chess for Success at Bridger / Creative Science School

The Bridger Bolt Chess Team has been very successful over the last several years. They've been regional champions for three straight years now and have qualified for state for five straight years. At state we've finished 4th in 2000, 3rd in 2001, 2nd in 2002, 3rd in 2003 and 2004. In 2002 the team competed at National and finished 22nd among over 100 schools.

Roughly 40% of Bridger/CSS students, K-5, are involved in some part of our Chess for Success program.

CHESS ACADEMY

For kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students wishing to learn how to play chess. Chess Academy is offered after Spring Break.

PRIMARY CHESS CLUB

For kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grade students wishing to play chess against other young kids in a noncompetitive setting. Primary Chess Club is offered in the spring after Chess Academy.

INTERMEDIATE CHESS CLUB

For 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students wishing to play chess against other intermediate students while learning advanced rules and basic strategy. Intermediate Chess Club is offered in the fall.

BRIDGER BOLTS CHESS TEAM

For advanced players, who qualify through competition with other Intermediate Chess Club members, wishing to learn advanced chess strategy. The chess Team competes against other schools.

RAINY DAY CHESS ROOM

Mr. Needham's classroom is open for chess during inside recess days due to rainy weather.

BIG CHESS

Mr. Needham's class will be responsible for setting up "Big Chess" during dry lunch recesses.

OTHER

Every classroom at Bridger/Creative Science School has been supplied with a number of chess boards for play during free time.

The Bridger/Creative Science School Chess for Success program is run by fourth grade teacher, Ben Needham. Chess for Success is an Oregon non-profit corporation.