On April 3, the St. Thomas East End Medical Center Corporation (STEEMCC) made a $200 contribution of chess boards and pieces to the St. Thomas-St. John Youth Scholastic Chess Club Inc. at the Lockhart Elementary School in response to a plea from club president Sinclair Wilkinson.
Before donating the gift today, STEEMCC’s Moleto A. Smith Jr. engaged 3rd and 4th grade club members in a discussion about their experiences playing chess. Students enthusiastically explained that playing chess helped them to focus, manage their anger and make new friends.
Following a pep talk from Mr. Smith who encouraged the students to excel in school, Wilkinson received the gift stating his appreciation for the health center’s support of the students. He expressed the club’s intent to utilize chess to generate student interest in math and sciences, critical thinking as well as expanding the number of elementary student club members.
Contact Sinclair Wilkinson at 514-7054 for more information about the St. Thomas-St. John Youth Scholastic Chess Club Inc.