About Ivona

Ivona Jezierska, Women's FIDE Master, teacher and an active player for more than 30 years, starting playing when she was eleven in her native Poland and became a professional competitor at the age of 14 years. 

She was a top contender in several U.S. Women’s Chess Championships and a member of the U.S. Olympic team, which played in Greece in 1984 and in Dubai in 1986. Her name badge and gift of a chess clock from the Dubai organizers are displayed at The World Chess Hall of Fame in Miami, FL.

In the late 1990’s Ivona developed a comprehensive chess learning program to improve academic skills and self-esteem for Southern Californian children. She calls it “Chess for Success International.” 

Currently teaching chess classes at the Brentwood School, Crossroads, John Thomas Dye, St. Paul the Apostle and Westwood Charter plus private classes, Ivona’s warmth and natural rapport with children make learning and playing in tournaments a fun experience for all. Her students range from K – 12 and learn problem solving techniques, strategic thinking and improve academic performance.

For four weeks starting with the last week in June, Ivona holds a chess camp with intensive playing, practice tournaments, and problem solving. Beginners learn all the basics and advanced players move to the next level.

As a tournament director, Ivona brings excitement to all the events that she puts on. With raffles, refreshments, and special themes these are great events for the kids and their families. She starts with the initial organization and ends with the trophy to the winner.

About Jack Peters

Jack Peters, International Master and chess columnist for the Los Angeles Times since 1982, teaches critical thinking with Ivona at St. Paul the Apostle and chess at the Westwood Charter School. He is a popular guest lecturer during the Chess Summer Camp that Ivona runs every year.