Information for:


Seattle University School of Law

Afterschool Chess Club at Bailey Gatzert

What is the After School Chess Club?

  • In collaboration with Bailey Gatzert Elementary School, SU law students provide homework help and play chess with elementary school students.
  • Any law student who wants to make a positive impact on kids through playing (or learning to play) chess can volunteer.

  • The purpose of the Afterschool Chess Club is to develop relationships with students and families in the Youth Initiative neighborhood and to potentially learn about the legal needs they are facing.

How Does the After School Chess Club Work?

  • Law student volunteers distribute snacks to students and direct one-on-one homework assistance and lead group homework/learning games.
  • After snack and  homework time, law student volunteers provide a short chess lesson.
  • Elementary students play chess against each other, with the volunteers answering questions and providing advice, instruction, and mentorship.

Why Should Law Students Get Involved?

  • Help fill the afterschool program needs of low-income neighborhood families by giving elementary students the chance to engage in a fun and challenging enrichment activity.
  • Develop leadership skills by forming lesson plans and contributing to overall program development and implementation.
  • Strengthen ties between Seattle University and the local community.
  • Serve as a mentor to youth many who are youth of color and low-income.

What Kind of Commitment is Required?

  • Students must commit to approximately two hours per week: Tuesdays from 3:00-5:00pm at Bailey Gatzert Elementary School (a 10 minute walk from campus).

  • A criminal background check is mandatory before law students can volunteer.

What Kind of Training Is Offered?

  • As no prior chess knowledge is necessary to volunteer for this program, law student volunteers will be trained on the basics of chess.
  • Training on working with elementary school age children including understanding abuse prevention is mandatory.

How Do I Apply?

  • Send a one or two paragraph statement about yourself, why you want to participate, and whether you want to commit to teaching and coaching chess or "tutoring" to Patricia Sully, Assistant Director of the Access to Justice Institute at sullyp@seattleu.edu. 

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