Chess Instructor | Fall

Chess Wizards•Vernon, CT

14d•$50 - $75•Onsite

About The Position

Chess Wizards is seeking enthusiastic, reliable instructors for its after-school enrichment program in Vernon, Connecticut. Instructors lead interactive chess classes for groups of 10–15 elementary students, using a structured curriculum to teach chess fundamentals and encourage good sportsmanship, problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. The role includes independently managing a lively classroom, redirecting behavior when needed, and following school safety protocols while supervising students during arrival, dismissal, and class activities. Instructors travel to assigned local school sites and must arrive prepared and on time. Classes take place on weekday afternoons, typically starting between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Instructors teach from one to five classes per week, depending on the availability of classes at local partner schools. A typical class is approximately 90 minutes, including setup, instruction, and post-class responsibilities. Pay is $50–$75 per class, with mileage reimbursement for trips over 15 miles one way. Full training, curriculum, and materials are provided, along with ongoing support.

Requirements

Experience working with groups of children through teaching, tutoring, coaching, camp counseling, or similar work.
Ability to lead a class independently and create interactive, friendly, and fun sessions.
Professional, positive, kid-friendly demeanor and a genuine desire to be a positive role model and promote good sportsmanship.
Strong grasp of chess fundamentals, including the ability to explain piece movement, basic strategy, and simple tactics in an age-appropriate way.
Ability to connect chess problem-solving to real-life problem-solving.
Reliable personal transportation and ability to drive between locations.
Availability on weekday afternoons, with class start times between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, to teach one to five classes per week, subject to local class availability.
Commitment to school safety protocols, reliability, and strict adherence to safety and school policies while independently supervising children.
Strong punctuality and time-management skills.
Resume detailing relevant experience, including work with children and any teaching, tutoring, or classroom experience.
Completion of the required application questionnaire about interest, experience working with children, and qualifications to teach chess.
Currently residing in the Vernon, CT area or willing to relocate at personal expense.

Responsibilities

Lead fun, interactive chess classes for groups of 10–15 elementary students.
Use the structured curriculum to teach chess fundamentals and promote good sportsmanship.
Manage classroom activities confidently and positively, keeping students engaged and redirecting behavior when needed.
Encourage students’ problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking, including connecting chess problem-solving to real-life problem-solving.
Follow school safety protocols and supervise students during arrival, dismissal, and in-class activities.
Travel to assigned local school sites for each session.
Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage students.