Seek permission from the school principal. In most cases, chess clubs meet after school hours. Most after-school activities must be approved by the principal or the school board.
Gauge interest among the students. To inquire about student interest, pass around a sign-up sheet for the fourth-graders to express their interest. Offer a brief description of what chess is and how it can benefit the students to help them make a decision. You can also let them know that they don't have to stick with it if they try it and don't like it.
Send home a note to the parents requesting their attendance at an informational meeting. This meeting can set up the times and dates for the meetings and let the parents know the intent of the club.
Set up a time that is convenient for the majority of the potential members. Encourage members to attend all meetings, but assure them that missing a meeting is not an issue. The focus of the chess club is to teach technique, socialize with their peers and practice their skills.
Gather the supplies necessary to run a chess club, including enough chess boards with pieces to accommodate most of the chess club members.
Organize the first few sessions to teach the students who are unfamiliar with the game to play. Students who have previously played can help teach other students the basics of the game.
Switch to a more open forum once all of the students are familiar with the game. Allow the students to pair up with each other and play. If you notice students of vastly different skill levels are always playing against each other, set up a more fair pairing for the next meeting.