More than 1,500 students — many of whom top high school players in the nation — competed in the Championship section at one of the most competitive scholastic chess events of the year. In a remarkable performance, Dalton tied for first place, ultimately finishing 4th on tiebreaks, with an impressive team score of 19½ out of 28.

Dalton Team Members:

This outstanding result placed Dalton alongside schools such as Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School, Stuyvesant High School, and Arizona College Prep Erie Campus, all of which finished with the same top score.

In addition to the team success, Co-Head of Dalton Girls Chess Initiatives Iris Mou ‘27 has achieved two impressive milestones: being selected as one of the winners of the 2026 Scholastic Chessplayer Award, and earning the Woman Grandmaster title at the American Women’s Continental Chess Championship in Peru. This title also qualifies her to compete at the Women’s World Cup next summer. These honors recognize not only Iris’s exceptional achievements over the chessboard, but also the values she embodies — leadership, service, resilience, and excellence in academics. 

We are incredibly proud of our players, not only for their results but for their dedication, resilience, and team spirit. Competing at this level requires focus, preparation, and courage, and our students rose to the challenge with determination and class.

These achievements reflect the continued growth and strength of the Dalton Chess Program and the commitment of our students to excellence, both on and off the board.