About

Welcome to Chess Elementary: Where Excellence Meets Legacy!

At Chess Elementary, we take pride in our rich history and the legacy of our namesake, Rowena Chess. Our school is not just a place of learning; it's a tribute to a visionary educator who understood the importance of a nutritious breakfast and its impact on a student's ability to excel throughout the school day.

Honoring Rowena Chess: Did you know that our school was named after the founder of the National School Breakfast Program, Rowena Chess herself? Not only that, but she also served as a principal at both the first Whittier and the original Captain Gray schools. Her dedication to healthy and vibrant students is forever etched in our school's legacy.

Remembering "Chessie": Rowena Chess, affectionately known as "Chessie," is fondly remembered by many in our town. Her impact was so profound that several current and former employees of our school were once her students. Dr. Dennis Maguire and Tom Brandon are just a few who recall her as a small yet powerful force for children.

A Legacy of Excellence: Chess Elementary earned the prestigious 2013 Washington Achievement Award, receiving Special Recognition for English Language Acquisition. This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to the hard work of our students, the dedication of our teachers, and the unwavering support and guidance of our parents. This award is a testament to the exceptional education provided here.

A Glimpse into Our School: Here are some fascinating facts about our beloved school:

• Since our opening in 2000, approximately 12,000 students have walked our halls, eager to learn and grow.
• Our school library is home to a staggering 44,196 books, and last year alone, 33,699 books were checked out, showcasing our students' love for reading.
• We have proudly participated in the Jump for Heart Program since our inception, promoting health and wellness among our students.
• Nine of our outstanding staff members have been honored with the Staff Achievement Award: Jill McColloch, Ida Silvers, Ana Arriaga, Penny Schultz, Carmelita Salinas, Judy Church, Linda King, Karen Hilbert, Kathy Crowner, Kristin McCormick, and Sandra Barragan.
• Two of our dedicated teachers, Jill McColloch and Alicia Barber, have earned the prestigious Crystal Apple Award for their exceptional contributions to education.
• Chess Elementary is home to the District's Primary Deaf Education program, providing specialized support and care to our students with hearing impairments.
• We are proud to have Conover Insurance and Community Health Plan of Washington as our PEAK! Partners, working collaboratively to enhance the well-being of our students.

At Chess Elementary, we are not just a school; we are a community dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child. Our legacy, combined with our commitment to excellence, makes Chess a place where students thrive and dreams take flight.