Murfreesboro, TN – In a strategic leap towards fostering intellectual excellence, the Rutherford County Board of Education, in collaboration with board members Caleb Tidwell and Claire Maxwell, Director of Rutherford County Schools Dr. James Sullivan and Rutherford County Property Assessor Rob Mitchell, proudly announces a groundbreaking initiative. Every high school in Rutherford County will soon be equipped with chess gear, marking the commencement of the inaugural "Tournament of High School Chess Champions" scheduled for March or April.

The initiative, funded with grants secured from Marcus Lemonis, Chairman of Camping World, and others aims to engage high school students in a contest of minds. Each school will select their own champion by tournament or nomination. The winners will then advance to the ultimate challenge – the "Tournament of High School Chess Champions," a Swiss-style competition promising exciting matches and strategic brilliance.

Rob Mitchell, Rutherford County Property Assessor, is working to secure a grant from the Governor's office which will support the implementation of a groundbreaking teacher training program developed by the International Chess Federation. The program empowers educators to seamlessly integrate chess into existing lesson plans, transforming classrooms into hubs of critical thinking, conflict resolution, and strategic acumen.

Chess in the classroom is more than just a game; it's a proven pathway to success. Educational institutions in Alabama, New Hampshire, and around the world have witnessed the transformative impact of chess on students' problem-solving skills, focus, conflict resolution ability and academic performance.

"This initiative represents a paradigm shift in education, aligning with our commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped for success in an ever-evolving world," remarked Rob Mitchell, Rutherford County Property Assessor.

Rutherford County is poised to unleash a generation of young critical thinkers, challenging educational conventions and preparing children to conquer the board and life. The tournament date will be revealed soon, and the community is invited to witness the crowning of the first High School Chess Champion.

This move is more than a strategic play; it's a game-changer.