We want to extend an invitation for all of the children and parents coming from Fort River next year to participate in Wildwood’s highly successful parent-run afterschool chess club. Up to 100 kids participate in this club every year, and it has become a beloved and much-anticipated tradition at our school. Look for a sign-up sheet in your child’s backpack next fall.
I have had a wonderful experience leading the chess club for the last three years with the help of other parent volunteers, and now with my daughter graduating, I’m looking to pass the hat to the next parent or group of parent leaders. I’m hoping some of these volunteers will be among you, the new members of our school community.
Here’s what‘s needed:
- administration that can be done at home, i.e.: collecting forms and assigning kids to groups (no chess knowledge required). Helps to be able to create spreadsheets and email lists. Approximate time required: 3 hours each semester.
- leading weekly 1 hour chess club sessions for beginning, intermediate or advanced players. Knowledge of chess is pretty important. I generally give a 15-20 minute ‘lesson’ at the start of each session, then let them just play each other for the rest of the time. Time: 2 hours each week,
- organizing snack (no chess knowledge required). We usually have a sign up sheet at beginning of session and parents bring snack throughout.
- overseeing the operation – working with the club leaders to determine best days, printing and distributing the sign-up forms, sending group emails, generally keeping track. Time: 7 hours per semester
Please email me or call 212.595.3585 if you would like to take part in this fun activity with the kids. The materials have already been purchased, and a successful organizational structure is already in place. We could really use your help to keep this wonderful activity going, and it’s a fun way to volunteer at the school and get to know the children.
I look forward to meeting you,
Mat Lebowitz
mat@mlcreative.com
212.595.3585
