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Board to consider resolution urging state-funded chess pilot and related teacher training funding
Summary
A board member proposed a resolution asking the governor and state education officials to fund a three-year chess-instruction pilot with line items for teacher training, materials, student events and research. The resolution will be considered formally at the Thursday board meeting.
Board member Mr. Tidwell introduced a resolution proposing that the Rutherford County Board of Education request the governor and Tennessee Department of Education to develop and fund a three-year pilot to integrate chess instruction into primary and middle school coursework.
The resolution text presented in the work session cites research the presenter summarized as indicating positive effects of chess instruction on math and cognitive skills and lists proposed components with annual funding allocations: teacher training and chess materials ($70,000 annually), student engagement events ($5,000 annually), research and evaluation ($15,000 annually), program administration/outreach ($10,000 annually), and other supports including workshops and curriculum resources.
Why it matters: The resolution seeks state-level grant funding to pilot chess instruction across classrooms, fund teacher professional development and research the program's effects; it would ask state lawmakers and the department to consider the proposal and allocate funds if they act.
Board members who spoke in favor cited prior bipartisan support and local advocates (the presenter credited Rob Mitchell as an early proponent). The resolution was described as similar to a measure considered the prior year and was scheduled for formal consideration at the board's upcoming meeting on Thursday.
Ending: The resolution will be on the board agenda for formal action at the next meeting; staff and board members encouraged outreach to state legislators and the governor's office to pursue pilot funding.
