Oregon Public Broadcasting

Chess is a popular after-school activity.  But in Idaho, the game is moving into the classroom.

The state is adding chess to its curriculum for second and third grade students.  The lesson plans for teachers were developed by a Kirkland Washington company called America’s Foundation for Chess.

Company vice president Wendy Fisher says students learn math, logic, and history through chess.  She says starting in second grade is key.

Wendy Fisher: "At that age they love playing games and chess is a game to them.  And also they’re developing their thinking skills.  It’s a prime time for them to start doing things like thinking ahead, thinking strategically."

Fisher says older kids don’t like chess as much because of its ‘geek-factor.’

Idaho is the first state to try to integrate chess into academics on a state level, though teacher participation remains voluntary.