Friday, some of the area's brightest students battled it out on the playground.
Roberts Elementary in Tallahassee hosted the 2006 Chess Challenge. Over 900 students participated from area elementary, middle and high schools.
Studies show students who play chess often excel in reading and language skills.
"It teaches them cooperation and teaches them teamwork, but it also teaches them how to think critically and how to problem solve. So it has so many components that helps our kids," said Peggy Youngblood, principal of Roberts Elementary, dressed in a crown and purple robe.
During the day, students took part in a human chess game dressed as kings, queens and knights.