Part-Time Chess Instructor – Palo Alto & Sunnyvale

Yes For Chess•Palo Alto, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Yes for Chess is seeking a dependable and enthusiastic part-time Chess Instructor for its January–June 2027 school session. The instructor will teach structured, age-appropriate chess lessons to elementary-age students in Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, and nearby areas; Santa Clara may also be considered. Classes are scheduled on weekday afternoons, with Tuesday, Wednesday, and/or Thursday preferred. The role is suitable for college students, aspiring educators, tutors, and others who enjoy working with children and have an interest in chess. Advanced chess skills or competitive playing experience are not required. Yes for Chess provides structured curriculum materials and training to help instructors develop their chess knowledge and teach lessons confidently. The organization plans to hire before winter break and complete initial onboarding and training beforehand where possible. There may be limited opportunities to teach a few classes in December, but the main commitment runs from January through June 2027.

Requirements

Have an interest in chess and enthusiasm for teaching the game to children.
Be comfortable with basic chess concepts and willing to continue learning; advanced chess skills or competitive playing experience are not required.
Enjoy working with children and have a positive, patient, and approachable personality.
Be dependable, responsible, organized, and comfortable managing elementary-age students.
Communicate effectively and professionally.
Have reliable transportation to schools in Palo Alto and Sunnyvale.
Be available for weekday afternoon classes, preferably Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and/or Thursdays.
Be able to commit to a consistent part-time schedule from January through June 2027.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in tutoring, teaching, childcare, coaching, or after-school programs.
Being a college student seeking consistent part-time work during the school year.
Being an education major or interested in pursuing teaching.
Living in or near Palo Alto, Mountain View, or Sunnyvale.

Responsibilities

Teach engaging, structured chess lessons to elementary-age students.
Follow the established chess curriculum and lesson plans.
Create a positive, encouraging, and organized classroom environment.
Help students develop chess skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
Manage classroom behavior and maintain student engagement.
Communicate professionally with school staff and the Yes for Chess team.
Arrive on time and consistently attend scheduled classes.
Complete required class reports or administrative tasks.