In 2004, AF4C hired the Northwest Regional Education Lab to evaluate First Move.  Overall the results were very positive.  Highlighted below are some of the conclusions from the evaluation.

“Overall, teachers were enthused about the program.  Nearly all of the teachers reported that the program was what they expected and that the First Move program has been a valuable use of their time.  Teachers felt the curriculum was a great strength of the program and they cited multiple examples in which chess makes valuable academic connections—specifically in math.” 

“The professional development provided to both Year 1 and Year 2 teachers received favorable reviews.  Teachers appreciated the hands-on activities and opportunities to learn how to play chess in these workshops.  Additionally, the ongoing support provided by First Move staff members to teachers was also a positive aspect of the program.” 

“The enthusiasm for the program was abundant.  Teachers appreciated the expertise and flexibility of First Move staff, indicating that First Move truly understands the culture of the schools and communities, thus making the process of advancing chess into the daily curriculum easier for schools to achieve.”

To view the complete NWREL report click here