"I'm not sure if Biruk found chess or chess found Biruk. My daughter first started playing in Kindergarten as part of PS/MS 282's in-class chess program, and by first grade her teacher, Mr. Colding, encouraged her to join the chess team.It's been an amazing journey ever since. Not only has chess sharpened her strategic thinking, but it has taught her that practice, persistence, and patience pay off. Through a lot of hard work and determination, she and her teammates earned second place at the National Chess Tournament in Dallas.The most important part of the program, though, is that Biruk loves it. Mr. Colding, Ms. Davis, and Mr. Jeffrey have been amazing mentors—patient and caring, yet challenging when needed. Even though each player competes individually, they draw strength from their teammates, especially during tournaments.I've been blown away by this program, and I'm thankful every day that PS/MS 282 values and supports it."

 "I first learned about the school chess program when Maya was in kindergarten. She immediately fell in love with chess and insisted on joining the team. A week after her first tournament at PS/MS 282, she won her first trophy—and since then she has been on a mission to earn more!With the help of Mr. Colding, Maya has learned important life lessons about perseverance, determination, and overcoming setbacks. Chess has strengthened her analytical thinking, critical-thinking skills, and confidence in using her mind.What makes the program truly special is that it is about much more than chess. It is a family. The friendships, teamwork, and supportive community have helped shape Maya into a better person. Tournaments feel like exciting adventures with friends, and the entire chess family is always there to encourage one another.I am so thankful Maya insisted on joining the team. It has been one of the best experiences of her childhood."— **Neot, Parent of Maya**

 "Mr. Colding has been our trusted chess coach at PISTE and has played an important role in supporting our mission of helping young people develop discipline, strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and confidence.Our students are consistently engaged by his enthusiasm, creativity, and ability to make chess both educational and fun. Keeping the attention of 3rd–6th graders can be challenging, but Mr. Colding's lessons are always captivating and intellectually stimulating.Beyond his teaching ability, we appreciate his reliability, flexibility, and genuine commitment to uplifting young people, particularly those from underserved communities. He is an inspiring mentor who makes a lasting impact on our students, and we are grateful to have him as part of our program."— PISTE Youth Development Program