Course Description: Chess Fundamentals

Chess players are taught to think critically, plan their moves, and execute their strategy. The skills learned in this online course will serve players for life. Learn the fundamentals of chess, taught by an experienced chess coach. Learning goals include: familiarizing students with the elements of chess (piece names, values, and movements), learning opening principles, middlegame strategy, and basic endgames. Class is taught via Zoom and utilizes Lichess.org for live games and tutorials.

Course Resources
A Lichess.org account (free) is required for this class. Please go to: https://lichess.org/ to sign up prior to the beginning of class.

Course Details: (seats remaining)

Schedule:

Every week on Thursday, starting on 10/02/25 and ending on 11/06/25

Times:

06:00pm-07:30pm PDT

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Price:

Class Price : $159.00

Additional Course Information

A Zoom link will be provided prior to the first session. All students must sign up for a Lichess.org account (free) prior to the first day of camp.NOTE: All class times are Pacific Time (PT).

Online Course Information/Requirements:

- Course fee covers registration for one person unless otherwise noted.
- Must have access to a computer or laptop with current updated operating system. Mobile devices can be used to access some parts of classes but you may not be able to fully participate or complete your course on a phone or tablet.
- A high-speed internet connection.
- An up-to-date internet browser. We recommend Firefox or Chrome. Internet Explorer or Safari may have trouble and are not supported.
- Integrated or USB-connected webcam, speakers and microphone.
- You will need a Zoom login. Please do not share the Meeting ID information, nor invite others to participate with you.

Instructors

Name

Additional Resources

Reed McNames

Biography:

Reed is a dedicated chess coach, tournament player, and certified US Chess Federation (USCF) Tournament Director. She learned the rules at 5 years old and now has over 13 years of playing experience. She has competed both individually and as a team, including participating in the Collegiate Chess League at Portland State in 2022.

Currently working for an after-school program that teaches children the game of chess, she specializes in helping young learners foster strategic thinking, patience, and confidence. She also has private students whom she coaches individually.

Reed regularly plays both competitively and casually to stay sharp and connected to the broader chess community, bringing first hand experience and insights into what it takes to succeed over the board. Through engaging lessons and a student-centered approach, she strives to make chess both educational and enjoyable, helping each player grow at their own pace.

Facility Detail

ONLINE

ONLINE ZOOM

Online

Online, OR 97703

Cancellation Policy

Students must cancel by contacting our office via phone: (541) 383-7270 or email: ceinfo@cocc.edu. Cancellations received 5 days prior to the start of the class will receive a full refund. Full refunds are also issued for classes cancelled by COCC. Refunds will be issued back to your card or in the form of a check and mailed within two weeks of the cancellation date if paid by check or cash. Failure to participate in a course or program does not result in a refund. Exceptions to the general refund policy are noted in the course descriptions on our website and in the printed schedule. If you have any questions, please call us at (541) 383-7270.