Checkmate! D-E 360°’s Chess Team performed phenomenally at the 2026 National Elementary (K-6) Chess Championship in Baltimore May 1-3. “Eleven of our talented students competed in a field of over 2,500 players from 36 states, and they represented Dwight-Englewood with remarkable skill and poise,” said Dr. Sherronda Brown P ’31, ’31, Director of D-E 360°. According to Grandmaster “Coach Mac” Molner, highlights included the K-1 team coming in third place overall in the country! “On the last day of the tournament they scored 7 wins and 1 draw and came only a half point away—the slimmest possible margin—from being National Co-Champions,” said Coach Mac. “It was a nail-biting finish to the tournament and thrilling to be a part of.”

Individual accomplishments included Aiden Z. ’37 coming in 5th place overall in the country for K-1 students; Elvyn L. ’38 coming in 20th overall and receiving an individual award; Adam Y. ’34 earning 4th place out of 142 players in the K-6 Under 1400 section; and Raymond S. ’35 coming in 22nd out of 188 players in the K-3 Under 1000 section. The following weekend, the Chess Team competed at the New York Metro Area Scholastic Chess Grade Championships, where Nicolai D. ’37 received a “class prize” trophy for being a top player in the 800-999 rating. “This collective success is a testament to the unwavering support of our parents and Coach Mac’s vision, which has built a special community around this important game,” remarked Dr. Brown. Congratulations to our Chess Team for these incredible victories!