Mr. Jozef Benko
K–7th Grade Chess; 12th Grade Physics; High School Chess
University of the Slovak Republic at Nitra, M.S., Environmental EcologyUniversity of the Slovak Republic at Nitra, B.S. Environmental ScienceMr. Jozef Benko hails from Czechoslovakia, where he studied environmental science and environmental ecology. He is our K–8th grade chess instructor and assists with grounds and facilities maintenance. Mr. Benko has always been interested in the game of chess and has been playing seriously for nine years.
One of Mr. Benko's hobbies is studying advanced mathematics and physics. He explains, "Chess complemented my love of mathematical theory and helped my critical thinking skills in calculations. Chess is not just a game, it's a subject of study." He adds, "There's an art to chess as well—the game allows you to develop and innovate strategy."
One of the beauties of chess, according to Mr. Benko, is that it is a dynamic game. No two games are alike, and constant practice yields steady improvement.
Since he was in college, Mr. Benko has wanted to teach. He is happy to be at Classical Academy and looks forward to sharing his knowledge of chess with students.
Mr. Benko will be assisting Coach Jay Stallings with the the chess program. Mr. Benko says that "Coach Stallings is both a great chess teacher and player and has helped the transition happen smoothly from this year to next."
Mr. Benko is pleased to see where JHCA students are in their chess games and sees exciting opportunities for improvement. He says, "Every grade has some surprisingly strong players. Now that students will be practicing in person again, I look forward to seeing the classes make even bigger gains."
One way Mr. Benko hopes to further strengthen the chess program is by starting a Chess club so that students will have the opportunity to become more involved and delve deeper into chess tactics.
Mr. Benko, his wife, and three daughters live in Victor, Idaho, which has been home for his family the past thirteen years.
Why Does Mr. Benko Love Teaching at JHCA?
"I enjoy teaching at JHCA for several reasons. I believe that classical education is a superior form of education which JHCA is all about. I also like the people that I work with because we all share the same beliefs. JHCA is not ashamed to speak the name of Jesus and makes sure that Christ is the center of our education. Lastly, I just love to teach chess to our students!"
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