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 BELT PROMOTIONS


Our chief goal at American Karate Studios is to provide each student with a positive educational experience that incorporates physical fitness while developing mind and body awareness.  At the same time, we strive to cultivate and nurture the highest possible standards of qualities, values and attitudes that lead to a higher understanding of our life's purpose.  We make every attempt to help each student accomplish his or her goals that s/he establishes with us.

One of our main methods we use to attain this goal is done by the student's graduation into progressively  more demanding classes.  To determine when and whether or not a student is ready to advance into one of these classes, evaluation sessions are given.  If the student performs satisfactorily, s/he is awarded a higher rank which denotes his or her proficiency level and gives recognition for these achievements.  If s/he does not qualify, s/he stays in the present class to work on those areas that need attention, and then may qualify the following month, assuming excellent attendance.

The following criteria should give each student a 'check list' for his or her next belt promotion:

1. Progress:

Has the student made noticeable progress since his or her last promotion in the following areas:

A. Knowledge: Curriculum (past and present requirements)

B. Abilities: · Mental Skills: Focus, Concentration, Awareness, Memory · Physical Skills: Balance, Power, Speed, Coordination, Timing, Focus,   etc

Does the student demonstrate ‘consistency’ with the progress in the above areas?

2. Attendance:

Does the student show regular and consistent attendance, and have the required number of classes since his or her last promotion?

3. Effort:

Is the student demonstrating good effort consistently in classes.

4. Curriculum:

Does the student know the curriculum.

5. Ability to learn the next level of the curriculum.

6. Ability to work with the next peer group.

7. Demonstrate Confidence:
          Is the student confident in his or her 
          knowledge and abilities.


FAQ WITH EVALUATIONS AND BELT PROMOTIONS

What are the criteria used in evaluation of students for belt promotion?

Knows the curriculum (past and present requirements.

Has shown progress and improvement in balance, power, speed, coordination, focus, etc.

Has shown progress and improvement in concentration and focus.

Has the ability to work with the next peer group (belt level).

Has the ability to learn the next level of curriculum.
 

Is there anything else that is used for evaluation and belt promotion?

Yes, we look at a student’s progress from the beginning of his or her enrollment into our school.  We observe each student’s advancement in the above mentioned criteria at each belt level.  We do not compare one student with another…each student is evaluated on his or her own merits and progress.  Each student is looked at individually and not compared with another.  It takes time to see and evaluate the process.

Is there a ‘magic formula’ for success and advancement?

 YES!!! 

Be consistent in attendance.  Regular attendance will lead to good progress and maintaining high interest and vice versa.  Our teachers are very familiar with this formula.  If each of our students were to ‘stay on schedule’,  progress and high interest would be maintained. 

Listen to your teachers.  Respect them.  They are all here to help each student.

Review what is taught on a regular basis at home...This will increase your knowledge, abilities, and understanding.

Be patient.  Develop perseverance and ‘stick-to-it-iveness’.

Set goals and don’t quit.  Winners never do!

Feel good about your achievements each day!

Remember why you came into our school in the first place:
  To learn and develop certain qualities physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.  It was probably not to earn belts.  They only serve as a tool we use to reward and recognize progress of each student.  By simply looking at the belt, we can decipher a student's level in knowledge and ability and then proceed to teach the student from that point.

We hope this clears up any questions you might have concerning evaluations and belt promotions.  Private lessons are always available for evaluation, ‘extra help’, or special considerations.  If you ever have any questions concerning evaluation or belt promotion, please see a teacher or team leader.
 

When are Belt Promotions?

Belt promotions are normally held on the third Friday of each month.  Also, an alternate promotion date is held on the Saturday after the normal Friday date.  Any variations will be posted.  Anyone who is eligible to be promoted and cannot attend on the assigned date, should notify a Program Director so that a private promotion can be scheduled.  There is normally a small fee for this service (please check with a Director or the Front Desk).  

Can I Bring My Friends and Family?

Yes!  Absolutely...and please try to do just that!  Family and friends are all welcome to come and view the demonstrations and promotion ceremonies.  Support is always encouraged. 

Videotaped copies of each student's promotion are available for only $15. (please place your order on the day of the promotion).  No private videotaping is permitted during the demonstrations and ceremony; however, families and friends are encouraged to bring still cameras to take pictures.

When Should I Start My New Classes?

When advancing in rank, it is important to start your new classes as soon as possible.  Anything that upsets your normal routine can make it difficult to get started again.  New material is covered starting the first day.  Remember, a lay off is just an excuse to fall back into your old habits (not exercising, not disciplining yourself, procrastinating, etc.). 

 Maintain your regular attendance routine, and you will find yourself rapidly progressing towards your next belt promotion!

Student Creed
Belt Promotions
 Birthday Party
Holiday Schedule
Belt Videos
Family Offer
Good Study Habits
Points of Emphasis
Black Belt Oath
Safety Equipment
Class Schedules:
Teen/Adult
Children/Tots


Copyright © 2001 [American Karate Studios]. All rights reserved.
Revised: August 09, 2007