CCPS students compete in the fall chess tournament | So Good News

WALDORF, Md. – Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) held its annual fall chess tournament on October 22nd at Thomas Stone Middle School. Parents, families and friends have once again been allowed to watch games live after COVID-19 precautions kept viewers from watching the final tournaments in person.

Students from kindergarten to 12th grade can participate in the fall tournament. Students play with peers at their grade level. Between official games, students can practice with Skittles or pickup games in the practice area.

William Posey, a junior at La Plata High School, likes to stress, or relax, as the chess player calls it. “I like the strategy that went into it,” he said. “You can play seriously or just for fun.”

A total of 92 students competed in four rounds of the class-level game, and one champion was named from each class. The champions were awarded with a trophy, and all other participants were awarded with medals. Felix Cummings served as tournament director.

The following students won championships for their grade levels.

• Tamea Jackson, Kindergarten, Dr. Thomas L. Higdon Elementary School.
• Carter Baker, first grade, Dr. James Craik Elementary School.
• Bentley Thompson, second grade, Mary B. Neal Elementary School.
• Larra Victoria Carino, third grade, Indian Elementary School.
• Luke McDonald, fourth grade, TC Martin Elementary School.
• Carlos Borders, fifth grade, William B. Wade Elementary School.
• Mason Kea, sixth grade, Mattawoman Middle School (tie).
• Lionel Saravia, sixth grade, Mattawoman (tie).
• Aundre Dudley Jr., seventh grade, St. Mary’s Bryantown School.
• Joshua Batson, eighth grade, John Hanson Middle School.
• Giuseppe De Lama, Freshman, Thomas Stone.
• Alfred Johann “AJ” Kruse, a sophomore at Westlake High School.
• Joshua Dieterle, Jr., La Plata High School.
• Andrew Miller, a senior at St. Charles High School.

About CCPS

Charles County Public Schools provides an academically challenging education to 27,000 students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 37 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high-quality education that builds character, equips students for leadership and prepares students for life, career and higher education.

The Charles County Public School System does not discriminate in its programs, activities, or employment practices based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or disability. For inquiries, contact Kathy Kissling, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (Students) or Nikial M. Majors, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (Employee/Adults), Charles County Public Schools, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building, PO Box 2770, La Plata, MD 20646; 301-932-6610/301-870-3814. For special accommodations, call 301-934-7230 or TDD 1-800-735-2258 two weeks before the event.

CCPS provides designated youth groups (including, but not limited to, Boy Scouts) equal access to school facilities without discrimination in accordance with facility use regulations.