Scholastic Chess
Chess teaches valuable life skills, and we believe that chess should be fun and accessible to all. Through the power of play, we give children a tool to make friends from diverse backgrounds, practice making and achieving long-term strategic plans, and prove to themselves that they are powerful, smart, and capable regardless of their background.
Every week, our chess coaches teach at schools, ranging from some of the most elite schools in the city to some of the most marginalized, and our classes provide a safe and fun way for children to learn and explore one of the world’s greatest games.
By fostering a welcoming community of scholastic players, we develop not just great chess players, but great people.
Chess in the Schools
Our Chess in the Schools program brings the excitement and lifelong benefits of chess to classrooms throughout San Francisco.
Scholastic Tournaments
Our youth tournaments give rising stars the chance to compete at the very same tables as past—and future—World Champions.
Chess Camps
Our school break camps offer students a place to make friends and improve their chess with the help of experienced instructors.
Annual San Francisco Scholastic Chess Championship
Each spring, our flagship Scholastic Chess Championship brings hundreds of families together for a free, fun-filled day of chess in the heart of San Francisco’s parks.
Save the date: The 2026 San Francisco Scholastic Chess Championship is set for Saturday, April 11 at Yerba Buena Gardens. More details coming soon!
Site photography by Greg Habiby
Event & Meeting Room Rentals
Mechanics' Institute offers meeting spaces for hourly or daily rental on the 3rd and 4th fls. of our historic building. Located one half block from the Montgomery Street Muni and BART stations, it is a convenient commuter location to host meetings, events, classes, and seminars.
Learn More & Reserve Rooms