Knight School

What The Students Say...   

"Throughout my childhood Ed Zelkind greatly helped me develop both as a chess player and as a person. He gave me the chess knowledge and competitive skills necessary for me to become a Chess Master at the age of 15. To this day Mr. Zelkind remains a mentor and friend. I would definitely recommend him to anyone seeking to become a strong chess player."
-Sean Nagle
USCF Rating: 2305

"Most of my success is because of Ed. As soon as he started coaching me my rating when straight up. He improves your game through positive criticism -- he's not pushy or negative. He's a lot of fun to work with and he really knows chess."
-Matthew Jensen,
USCF Rating: 2061 
-2001 Minnesota High School Champ

"Mr. Zelkind made learning chess a fun experience! His unique teaching techniques and ongoing friendship were essential in my rapid advancement as a chess player. There is no way I could have became a two time National Junior High School Co-Champion without him!"
- James Allen (f.k.a James Wheat),
USCF Rating: 2237
-1991 & 1993 National Junior High School Co-Champion
-Many time State Champion at different scholastic levels

"I was a student of Ed Zelkind from third grade into high school. I would never have had the success I did in chess without him. I have many fond memories of chess lessons and camps with him. Don't take chess lessons from anyone else!"
-Erin Wheat,
-1989 State Primary Champion,
-1992 State Elementary Champion
(first female champion)
-In 1991, as a 5th grader, member of the National Junior High Championship team
-1992 , 1st place (tie) MN Junior High Championship as a 6th grader
-1994 4th place National Jr. High Champ

"Ed puts the fun in chess for kids because he's very personable. Ed is concerned with the total child, he doesn't look at a kid as just a chess player. He's become more than a coach to us... he's a real friend."
-Gloria Jensen,
Matthew Jensen's Mother

"What I like most about Ed is that he takes a personal interest in his students. Whenever I see Ed he always
asks how my children are. He's a
good, kind, decent person."
- Janice Allen,
Mother of James Allen and Erin Wheat

"Ed Zelkind tutored my son in chess for many years. He taught him to succeed in the game and has been a lasting positive influence on his life. He is a wonderful chess coach and a truly caring person."
-CiD Hanscom,
Mother of Matt Hanscom

"Ed Zelkind was a big help in getting my son started in chess. He has always treated him with respect and made him feel important. As a teacher myself, I know how critical that is to bring out the best in kids."
-Barney Bartholomew
Father of John Bartholomew
J. Bartholomew's USCF Rating: 2205