Any student who has experience in our program is eligible to apply to become a Jr. Leader. Specifically, we are looking for students who:

• Demonstrate a mastery of our curriculum
• Demonstrate maturity during their time as a student
• Are entering 5th grade or higher

Learners Jr. Leaders take on some more responsibilities in their chess programs than normal students.

Jr. Leaders will be expected to:

• Help coaches with any chess or non-chess related activities needed to make a chess program run smoothly.
• Help new and beginner students integrate into the program either by playing chess with them to warm up or by helping them understand the basics of chess.
• Help students practice things such as mating patterns.
• Set a good example for the other students to follow. For example:
  • Always tries their best in every game they play and activity in which they participate.
  • Act on direction given to the entire class immediately and encourage other students to do the same.
  • Participate in lectures while also leaving room for other students to ask questions and give input. Embrace responsibility of a leader while accepting the role as a student.

Jr. Leaders get several benefits:

• Discounts on in-person and online programs
• Opportunity to work towards becoming a Jr. Coach (learn more about Jr. Coaches below)
• Leadership experience
• Experience you can put on a resume or college application

Once you decide you want to become a Jr. Leader, ask yourself a few questions:

• Have I mastered all 5 of the basic learners booklets, the King/Queen and King/Rook and King/Pawn ending techniques?
• Do I always follow the rules and LCA coaches’ directions?
• Am I a good sport? Do I enjoy helping and supporting other students to grow and learn?
• Do I always try my best in everything I do?
• Am I willing to grow and learn about leadership from Learners Coaches?

If you understand the responsibilities of a Jr. Leader and answered yes to these questions, then fill out the application below. As well as the application, you will also be required to meet with a LCA Coach or panel of Coaches for a small interview.