Enrichment That Builds Thinkers.
Scholastic Strategy Lab is an elementary school enrichment program using Mensa selected strategy games to build creative, critical thinking and strengthen social emotional learning. Our school friendly, screen-free, enrichment sessions are designed to be an accessible entry point to strategic thinking for grades K - 5. Our inclusive, class, grade, or school wide workshops support a wide range of learning styles and experience levels to build confidence through structured play and positively encourage students to engage in CASEL aligned skills in a fun, motivating format.
More Than Just Games, A Structured Enrichment Experience.
Our program introduces a curated rotation of globally originated tabletop activities and abstract strategy puzzles that are easy to learn, have simple rules, but are rich in depth and critical thinking. All our games encourage focus, problem solving, logic, and strategical thinking, all while being fun and a bit competitive. Students not only strengthen these natural skills throughout the workshop, they also learn about the cultural history behind each game, connecting strategy with geography and global awareness.
Students learn that critical thinking is universal, and shared across all cultures.
Designed for Learning. Built for Schools.
Why Schools Choose Our Program.
We understand how busy schools are. That’s why our program is designed to be completely turnkey, and align naturally with school priorities and enrichment goals within the rhythm of the school day. Our workshops are extremely easy for schools to host, as our trained facilitators handle the entire event from start to finish and provide all guidance, educational materials, equipment, and gameplay. No preparation from teachers is required, so schools can offer a meaningful learning experience without adding work for staff.
How It Works.
Our Program Options:
Strategy Lab Workshop
In School Program
Facilitated, single day, classroom or grade level workshops in which students rotate through guided, small group strategy activities inspired by games from around the world.
Sessions begin with a brief introduction to the activity and its cultural origin, followed by instruction and structured gameplay.
Students practice logical reasoning, planning, and critical thinking in a collaborative format.
These introductory games are curated to spark immediate engagement and create a shared learning experience.
Workshops can be held for a single hour time block to a full 6 hour enrichment day.
Educational Outcomes:
Students who participate in our workshops develop:
- Stronger logical and critical thinking
- Improved focus and sustained attention
- Responsible decision making
- Positive peer interaction and sportsmanship
- Greater confidence
Strategy Lab Club
After School Program
A structured six week program held once per week, introducing age appropriate, longer form strategy games selected for their depth and accessibility. Each session features a new game, giving students the opportunity to learn, apply, and compete respectfully with classmates. The program promotes focus, sportsmanship, and positive competition while strengthening logical thinking in a consistent, engaging format.
The after school program is designed to keep students engaged week to week and actively develop CASEL aligned competencies including responsible decision making, self management, and positive relationship skills.
Educational Outcomes:
Students who participate in our weekly program demonstrate growth in:
- Advanced logical reasoning
- Enhanced strategic planning abilities
- Confidence in complex problem solving
- Greater resilience and growth mindset behaviors
- Improved social collaboration
Our Vision.
From simple games to powerful thinking.
Scholastic Strategy Lab aims to normalize structured strategic play in elementary education and increase exposure to global cultural games. Our ultimate goal is to provide equitable access to cognitive enrichment and become a trusted partner for school wide enrichment.
Scholastic Strategy Lab exists to help schools nurture thoughtful, focused, and confident learners, one session at a time.
Our Team.
Tim Jarosz
Founder & Program Director
Tim is a father of two young boys and a state certified youth sports coach. An advanced level competitive checkers player and global strategy game enthusiast.
Kate Miller
Team Leader
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Program FAQ
How is this different from a chess program?
Chess programs often focus on advanced competitive play. Our program is designed as an accessible entry point to strategic thinking, especially for younger students or those new to abstract games. The emphasis is on structured skill building rather than competition alone.
We are not a "game" club, but rather a learning club.
What grade levels does this work best for?
The in school workshop format works great for grades K-5, as it's designed for all levels. Our six week after school program is especially effective for grades 2-5, where students can engage more deeply in multi-step strategy and reflection.
Do I need to teach or explain rules?
No. All instruction is handled by program staff using age appropriate, simplified techniques. Teachers only provide light supervision, similar to any assembly or enrichment block.
Is this appropriate for all skill levels?
Yes. Our program is inclusive by design. No prior experience is required as our games are easy to learn and intentionally selected because they support varied learning styles and experience levels. Everyone will feel comfortable participating.
How large of a group can you accommodate?
Programs can be delivered at the classroom, grade, or school wide level. We scale staffing based on group size.
How does this support academic learning?
The program reinforces all transferable skills that support math, reading comprehension, and problem solving. Our program format supports logical reasoning, focus, patience, decision making, and respectful competition.
All in a screen free, low pressure environment.
Will this disrupt my class or schedule?
No. Our program runs on a clear schedule with defined start and end times. Students rotate through activities efficiently, and facilitators manage all transitions. Teachers are not required to prepare materials or run games.
What does the teacher need to do during the event?
Teachers can help with general supervision and assist with transitions if needed. But mostly just enjoy seeing students engaged.
No setup, teardown, or instruction is required.
What about student behavior?
The program emphasizes quiet focus and respectful interaction. Facilitators actively reinforce clear expectations and help maintain a calm and focused environment.
Who would be coming to our school?
Our programs are led by trained instructors, who are formally background checked and cleared through the state.
All staff are youth educators and game enthusiasts.
Information For Schools and Districts
Student Safety & Compliance
Child safety is of the utmost importance.
- Scholastic Strategy Lab maintains general liability insurance of $1M per occurrence / $2M aggregate.
Certificate of Insurance listing the school/district as additional insured can be provided upon request.
-All Scholastic Strategy Lab staff complete required state background checks consistent with district policies and cleared through the state. All staff pass code of conduct training and criminal history checks.
Staff bios / credentials sheets are available upon request.
- We are PO-friendly and can provide quotes, invoices, and vendor documentation to support your purchasing process.
Completed IRS W-9 available upon request.
Contact Us.
Please reach out for more information about our program and to receive our full enrichment guide and pricing.
You can send us a message at [email protected] or fill out the form below.
We look forward to working with you!
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