Welcome to SquareBySquare Chess Academy

At SquareBySquare, we believe every great player is built one step at a time — one move, one lesson, one square. Our academy is designed to make chess approachable for beginners while offering structured, challenging programs for advanced players.

Through clear, step-by-step instruction, interactive online lessons, and engaging activities, we help students of all ages grow their skills and confidence. Kids love the fun, supportive atmosphere, while parents appreciate the discipline, focus, and problem-solving chess inspires.

Start Your Journey

Building Chess Champions, One Square at a Time

Founded on the principle that chess mastery comes through patient, systematic learning, SquareBySquare Chess Academy specializes in nurturing young players from kindergarten through high school. Our experienced young coaches combine competitive excellence with natural understanding of how students their age learn and grow.


We understand that every student learns differently. That's why we assess each player's current skill level and place them in appropriate beginner or intermediate group classes, or offer personalized private lessons. Our small class sizes and flexible 4-class batch system ensure personalized attention while accommodating busy family schedules.


At SquareBySquare, we're not just teaching chess — we're developing critical thinking, patience, strategic planning, and confidence that extends far beyond the 64 squares, all while keeping it fun and engaging for young minds.

Programs & Classes

Beginner Group Classes (Grades K-12)

Perfect for young minds discovering chess for the first time or those new to the game. We make learning the rules fun with games, puzzles, and interactive activities. Students learn basic moves, simple tactics, and good sportsmanship in a supportive environment.


Price: $20 per class

Class Size: Maximum 8 students

Purchase: 4-class batches

Intermediate Group Classes (Grades K-12)

For students who know the basics and want to improve their game. Focus on opening principles, tactical patterns, basic endgames, and competitive play concepts. Students develop stronger strategic thinking and game analysis skills.


Price: $20 per class

Class Size: Maximum 8 students

Purchase: 4-class batches

Advanced Group Classes (Grades K-12)

For competitive players seeking to elevate their game. Deep dive into advanced tactics, positional understanding, complex endgames, opening theory, and tournament preparation. Students analyze master games and develop sophisticated strategic thinking.


Price: $20 per class

Class Size: Maximum 8 students

Purchase: 4-class batches

Private Lessons (Grades K-12)

One-on-one instruction tailored to individual goals and learning pace. Perfect for focused improvement, tournament preparation, or students who prefer personalized attention. Available for all skill levels from beginner to intermediate (advanced upon request).


Price: $25 per lesson

Scheduling: Flexible times available

Focus: Customized to student's specific needs

Skill Assessment & Placement


We want every student to feel both challenged and confident. That’s why we start with a quick parent questionnaire and a short evaluation to get a sense of each child’s skills. From there, students join either a beginner or intermediate group where they’ll learn at the right pace and alongside peers at a similar level. And as they grow, they can always move between groups—because progress never fits into a single box.

Why Choose SquareBySquare?

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Proven Teaching Method

Our step-by-step approach breaks down complex concepts into manageable lessons. Every student progresses at their own pace while building a solid foundation.

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Experienced Instructors

Our coaches combine tournament experience with teaching expertise. They're passionate about chess and skilled at making it accessible to learners of all ages.

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Small Class Sizes

We maintain low student-to-instructor ratios to ensure every player receives individual attention and personalized feedback.

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Progressive Curriculum

Our structured program ensures students develop skills in logical sequence, from basic moves to advanced strategy, preventing gaps in understanding.

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Supportive Community

We foster a positive, encouraging environment where students feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and celebrate improvements.

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Flexible Options

Multiple class times, private lessons, and various program lengths accommodate different schedules and learning preferences.

Our Credentials & Expertise

Young Masters, Proven Results

At SquareBySquare Chess Academy, our coaches bring the perfect combination of high-level chess expertise and youthful energy. Both 10th graders at Northville High School, they understand exactly what it takes to excel at chess while connecting naturally with students of all ages.

Teaching Champions

• Current high school students who understand how young minds learn chess

• Recent competitive success means up-to-date knowledge of modern chess

• Peer-to-peer connection with younger students creates comfortable learning environment

• Passion-driven instruction from active, enthusiastic players

Coach Vivaan Bhatt

10th Grade, Northville High School

• 2500 Peak Online Rating on Chess.com

• Top 5000 in the World on Chess.com

• 3+ Years Teaching Experience with elementary students

• Chess Club Leader at Meads Mill Middle School

• Seeking official OTB title in the near future

Coach Daut Yakupov

10th Grade, Northville High School

• 3-Time Michigan K-12 Scholastic State Champion

• 10th Place Scholastic National Championship

• 2000+ Online Rating, FIDE 1700+

• Proven competitive excellence at state and national levels

• Seeking official OTB title in the near future

Our Teaching Philosophy

• Step-by-step methodology proven through personal chess development

• Age-appropriate instruction tailored to each student's learning style

• Competitive insights from active tournament participation

• Mentorship approach combining chess skills with life lessons

Coach Vivaan Bhatt
Coach Daut Yakupov

Why We Make Great Teachers: Our coaches combine recent competitive success with active involvement in high school chess, bringing fresh, modern strategies to their instruction. Having faced the same challenges their students do, they provide a relatable and inspiring learning environment, helping students see their own potential reflected in their instructors' achievements.