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“CODE OF CONDUCT” PAGES ESTABLISHED: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2017 Hello everyone, and welcome to the “Student/Instructor Code of Conduct” page. Here you will find insightful guidelines and information about what’s expected of all current Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association (FKKA) members.
 
TEAM F.K.K.A. PROJECT The “Student Code of Conduct” pages have been examined, revised, edited, and blessed by the following individuals. Each member contributed unselfishly to the content and information within the pages. After weeks and months of meetings, private instructor conversations, parent and student participation, Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association (FKKA) has arrived at the final CODE pages. It gives us great pleasure to recognize the following individuals for their time, energy, and consideration: • Mariana F. • Juanita F. • Diana M.J. • Barbara G. • Robert G. • Ben A. • Gabrielle H. • Joel S. Mr. & Mrs. Jake B. Mr. & Mrs. Donald M. • Mr. & Mrs. Gardale G. • Linda C. • And, of course, Grandmaster Flaherty. STUDENT/BLACK BELT INSTRUCTOR “CODE OF CONDUCT” All students of the FKKA are expected to follow a CODE, and that CODE is to treat all people and things with DIGNITY. Under Grandmaster Flaherty’s leadership students of all ages, ranks, and status, including black belt degree members, have a great time studying martial arts in a warm and friendly environment where each student can develop at his or her unique pace. Grandmaster Randall K. Flaherty, the Founder of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association (F.K.K.A.), has created many karate forms (katas), fighting maneuvers, concepts, theories, and self-defense principles, along with weapon sets. All developments were designed for practicing, teaching, demonstration, and competition purposes. If you have been a student of the grandmaster, participated in his training workshops or seminars, or attended group or private class sessions, then you are probably practicing to some degree the FKKA material. The “Code of Conduct” pages are designed to offer public insights regarding thoughtful guidelines or ideas for students' and instructors' behavior and etiquette and definitions of key terms. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORDS: DIGNITY: The state or quality of being worthy of honor and respect; a composed or serious manner or style; a sense of pride in oneself; self-respect. CODE OF ETHICS: Documents that outline the mission and values of the business or organization, how professionals are supposed to approach problems, the ethical principles based on the organization’s core values, and the standards to which the professional is held. WHAT IS KENPO? Kenpo Karate is a style or system of martial arts characterized by rapid movements - quick moves in rapid-fire succession - that are designed to overwhelm an opponent and offer many options. If the first strike misses, there will be others that will not miss! Kenpo is also a well-balanced system of self defense, offering principles, theories, concepts, and practical applications by tailor-fitting each maneuver to the arena of the practitioner’s interest – be it the competitive ring, or human survival instincts in case of real life threats. Kenpo creates other fine points of expertise, such as developing a superior mindset for winning, focusing on speed with both rapid hands and feet applications, rendering an attacker helpless within one to three applied movements, and teaching students to become aware of their environment in order to assist in a life-threatening situation. People all over the world have chosen to learn Kenpo Karate because it is a skill that fits best for their individual self-defense needs and is so versatile. Those who have studied a variety of martial arts systems tend to come back to Kenpo, seeing it as a personal and practical style that works well in many different circumstances. As a result, millions of people worldwide think of Kenpo black belts as the “experts in the field of the martial arts.” If you want to know more, or want to become the next expert, then join our FKKA School today. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORD: KENPO: is a mixture of five cultures: first and most important, Chinese; second Japanese; followed by Okinawan, Hawaiian (before Hawaii became a state) and American. The greatest confusion regarding “KENPO” is the origin meaning of its name. F.K.K.A. STUDENT CREED I come to learn karate, training in the art of Kenpo, seeking knowledge from my black belt teachers; I conceal my treasures, the martial arts, and ask for forgiveness in case I have to use the art, with great humility, confidence, discipline, and respect. CODE OF HONOR The Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association’s “CODE OF HONOR” was written by Grandmaster R. Flaherty, both to assure good ethical practices, and to create a martial arts HONOR system for all FKKA participants. (Established: Wednesday, October 28, 2020) The HONOR system: HONOR in the martial arts, especially at Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association (FKKA), is the ability to carry out the values of INTEGRITY, respect, honesty, duty, dependability, reliability, loyalty, and leadership. We exhibit honor by demonstrating an open-mindedness toward our personal learning and training development, maintaining a friendly, sportsmanlike attitude, and as excellent students, freely receive praise from higher-level instructors for our accomplishments. Be Courageous! GENERAL INFORMATION PARENTS OR LEGAL GUARDIANS: Parents are expected to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike and supportive manner toward their children, the karate instruction, Kenpo teachers, and other lobby guests while inside or outside the Academy. (Children need to be encouraged and reminded that Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate is a safe place to learn and develop in martial arts.) STUDENTS OF ALL AGES AND RANKS: Students of all ages are expected to work hard, to listen to class instructors, to be honest and respectful, and to test for rank when they are ready. (Belt stripes or black belt degrees earned are not as important as the knowledge gained through training, hard work, and practice.) INSTRUCTORS OF ALL DEGREES: All Kenpo instructors are expected to teach from the heart, giving each student equal attention by offering honest, trustworthy, reliable, and accountable advice regarding training, our excellent programs to join and classes to attend, while leading all participants toward belt promotions up to and including black belt and higher degrees. (Each student learns at his or her own unique pace and is given additional attention when he or she is getting closer to each belt or degree examination.) HELPFUL MEMBERSHIP PLEDGES 1. I pledge to be on time or early when bringing my child (or myself) to Kenpo Karate practice sessions. I understand that it may be uncomfortable for my child (or me) to be late to class or practice and that students are subject to physical risk if not provided with adequate time to warm up. 2. I understand that I (parent / guardian) am encouraged to stay during practices or program events, but if I do not want to stay, I will arrive on time when my child is finished. Being punctual shows respect for the grandmaster or head instructors (who have other time commitments) and it tells my child that he/she is my top priority. 3. I understand that the top three reasons my child plays sports (learns martial arts) are to have fun, make new friends, and to learn new skills. I understand that Kenpo Karate is for kids (and everyone), and I will encourage my child (and myself) to have fun and keep the sport of Karate in the proper prospective. I understand that athletes do their best when they are emotionally healthy, so I will be positive and supportive. 4. I will redefine what it takes to become a “winner” in my conversations with my child. Winners are the people who make the maximum effort, continue to learn and improve, and do not let mistakes, or fear of making a mistake, discourage them. I understand that mistakes are an inevitable part of any sport (especially Kenpo Karate), and that people learn from their mistakes. I understand that people are born with different abilities, and that the true measure of success is not how my child compares to others, but how he/she is doing in comparison to his/her best self. 5. I understand that instructors sometimes make mistakes; I will refrain from questioning, insulting, or making personal attacks against an instructor. BEGINNER CODE OF ETHICS (White – Blue) Come to class attentive and eager to learn. If you are not prepared to be engaged and give it your all, you will not learn all you can. Be respectful to your instructors, to each other, and also to yourself. Respect your instructors because they are taking the time to guide and lead you on your journey in martial arts while you are here at this school. Be respectful to each other because your fellow classmates are going on this journey with you; help each other and support each other. Ultimately, respect yourself. Know you can achieve anything. Do not put yourself down or hold a negative attitude. Negativity will do nothing but prevent you from learning all you can. Patience is important because everyone gets frustrated, and as you learn a new technique or a new form, you may stumble, but you must not let your frustration overtake you. Calm yourself and realize everyone was in your place at some time, including your instructors. Continue to work the new material, and you will in time succeed. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORDS: ATTENTIVE: Paying close attention to something. Or, assiduously attending to the comfort or wishes of others; very polite or courteous. CALM: (of a person, action, or manner) not showing or feeling nervousness, anger, or other emotions. ADVANCED CODE OF ETHICS (Green – Brown/Black) At a higher rank attention to detail is a must. Leave all the troubles from the day at the door and focus on your training. Pay close attention to every stance and every movement. Instructors will begin to harp on more and more little things, and it is with great discipline that you must focus on those little things. Be respectful to the instructors and those of a lower rank. As a higher rank you may be asked to help instruct. Take this opportunity to pass on your knowledge and also fine tune your own material by imparting it to the beginner ranks. Furthermore, you will find yourself enriched by seeing and helping another student learn and understand the material. The instructors will get harder and more “picky” to ensure you are getting closer and closer to the black belt rank. Understand that your instructors are there for you and want you to be the best martial artist you can be. Patience at this rank is important to keep in mind, especially when working with the beginner ranks in an instructor capacity. Everyone learns at a different pace in a different capacity, and if you are given the opportunity to teach, it will be another lesson for you to teach all manners of student. Guide your students and assist to the best of your ability. Humility: this level is a very humbling level, and you must embrace the role. You will be assisting the beginner ranks, and there may be material that you have gotten rusty on, or a detail you have not noticed before. When appropriate, take the moment to ask a higher rank or the chief instructor (without being disruptive to the learning that that instructor is imparting to another student) and ask for clarification. Remember, you do not want to impart the wrong information. Confidence is also important at this level. You need to be confident in yourself and your movements. You are advancing and getting closer to the black belt level, and as you do, the desire in you explodes with energy and power. That comes from a confidence within you. STUDENT “CODE OF CONDUCT” GUIDELINES 1. Be honorable. Treat everyone with the utmost respect. 2. Practice Kenpo Karate in a safe manner. 3. Listen to your instructors and follow their commands. 4. Show respect by bowing at all times before entering and leaving the training areas. 5. Unnecessary roughness, crude language, or a display of ill temper is absolutely forbidden on the premises of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association. 6. NO smoking, chewing gum or food is allowed while inside of the FKKA training areas. 7. Be respectful of the dojo by not damaging equipment or FKKA property. Use all training equipment for its intended purposes. 8. Maintain good personal hygiene. 9. Be responsible and accountable for your actions. Remember the “Golden Rule” – Treat others, as you would like to be treated. 10. Punctuality is important: Be courteous and report to class on time. If early, please train quietly without interrupting other training class sessions. 13. During sparring class sessions or workouts be careful not to make contact through neglect or carelessness. Contact due to carelessness is a serious offense. 14. Lead by example. Your behavior will be an example for lower ranks to follow. 15. Using foul language or profanity while on the premises of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Academy is strictly prohibited. Our FKKA members should always demonstrate respect for themselves and other people by choosing their words carefully (words of kindness, appreciation, and encouragement). 16. Maintain discipline: Don’t engage in horseplay while on the training areas or on the premises of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Academy. 17. Never use karate to play around with anyone (Kenpo Karate is for self-defense purposes only). 18. Never teach other students what you have learned in class without permission and approval from our black belt Instructors or the grandmaster. 19. Students, assistant instructors, and class teachers must arrive 10 minutes before all scheduled group or private classes. When class begins, each student will be allowed time for proper warm-ups, along with the recital of our Karate Creed. 21. Our advanced students are highly encouraged to join the “FAST-TRACK” program, which facilitates rapid learning and developing. The FAST-TRACK (better known as the “Kenpo Belt Workshop”) comes around one time each year, is a full six hours of color belt training, and is considered by top instructors to be the best day for detailed learning. 22. Students and FKKA black belt instructors are highly encouraged to participate in other academy monthly programs and training workshops. 23. Kenpo karate training becomes more difficult as students reach the advanced levels. If movements of techniques, forms, sets, and sparring become unclear and challenging, be sure to speak politely with your Instructors about your concerns for clarity purposes. 24. Test for the next belt color when you are ready, wait for testing approval from your karate instructors, diligently practice all material (including the lower belt levels and material), and come to all additional test examinations when you become thoroughly prepared to demonstrate to the panel of instructors confidence with all learned self-defense material. 25. Practice diligently for higher belt test examinations, including practicing all lower level belt material. 26. When students are in test examinations, instructors must be sure not to side coach the test-takers. All testers should have personally prepared beforehand to offer insightful information on all prescribed student material, be it with basics, forms, sets, weapons, sparring, breaking, and so on. 27. No talking while in class. Advanced students with questions about their training should politely and respectfully raise their hands, and wait patiently for the instructor’s response. 28. Students and instructors should make every attempt to call the karate office if unable to attend assigned classes. Calling demonstrates proper student respect toward the karate teachers and the academy. 29. Higher belts should aid lower belts in their training (but only if the class instructor permits). 30. Higher belt students should never at any time criticize a student of lower or higher belts. It’s important to remember: In Kenpo Karate, almost everyone will perform at his or her own pace and in his or her own unique way. 31. Address instructors with their appropriate titles. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORD: DISCIPLINE: Activity, exercise, or a regimen that develops or improves a skill; training: … behavior in accord with rules of conduct; behavior and order maintained by training and control; a set or system of rules and regulations. COLOR BELT STRIPES Students of the color ranks enjoy receiving well-earned stripes for accomplishing the system material of basics, techniques, forms (katas), sparring, and other. It’s always a great day at the FKKA when students of most age groups are earning and receiving stripes. In the color ranks, white belts thru blue belt students can earn three stripes on each side of their belts. Green and brown belt students can earn four stripes, and brown/black belt members earn a total of five stripes on each belt side. The class teacher will place all color ranking students' stripes that are earned on each qualifying student’s belt, free of charge. All FKKA Instructors understand the importance for students to earn and receive stripes in a timely manner. Students of most age groups enjoy having their instructor call them to the front of the class and offer them their well-deserved stripes and recognition. Besides offering well-deserved stripes, there are other programs developed to offer detailed student information with system clarity, as students pursue other stripes and karate belts. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORDS: CLARITY: The quality of being clear, in particular; or, the quality of coherence and intelligibility; or, the quality of being easy to see or hear; sharpness of image or sound. INSIGHTS: The capacity to gain an accurate and deep intuitive understanding of a person or thing; or, a deep understanding of a person or thing. REMOVING COLOR BELT STRIPES The FKKA instructors don’t enjoy taking or removing a student’s well-earned stripes. However, if the karate instructor is left with little choice based on the student’s poor performance and bad behavior, stripes can be taken until student improvements are made. For example: most often, when an academy instructor removes individual or class stripes, it is based on performance or tampering. The student might demonstrate a bad attitude toward other classmates, parents or instructors; the student might not listen to the class instructor regarding training and behavioral issues; or, the student might demonstrate on-going laziness, not testing when testing becomes necessary, a lack of concentration, a lack of listening to class instruction, lack of consistent practice, or might attempt to use his parents or guardians against an academy instructor. In addition, a student might demonstrate a poor performance by tampering with his or her belt stripes to loosen them, take them off, or replace them. Instructors are allowed to replace stripes or remove them as needed. Most of the time, FKKA student stripes are not retracted or removed! Typically, class teachers confirm removing student stripes with their chief instructors (the martial arts business owners). Retracting or taking away a student's stripes is usually done to gain the student’s cooperation to practice, or to learn and focus better in class. Taking away stripes is the exception, not the rule. In general, the students of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate are excellent members with incredible tenacity for learning and developing in the FKKA Martial Arts. We, the FKKA instructors are very proud of our students! ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORDS: FOCUS: The center of interest or activity; or, the state or quality of having or producing clear visual definition. PRACTICE: Repeated exercise in or performance of an activity or skill so as to acquire or maintain proficiency in it. TAKING OR RETRACTING COLOR BELTS The FKKA teachers will talk privately with students who have not quite made it to black belt status, and if under age, with their parents about a student's poor in-class performance or negative behavior. If the problem or issues continue, and his or her behavior is affecting other students or parents, then the student would be asked to leave the DOJO permanently. Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association provides a safe and ego free environment in which people are welcome to train or learn karate. These are the issues that might cause a person to be asked to leave the academy: 1. Student's actions were intended to harm another person or karate teammate, verbally, mentally, or physically. 2. Student demonstrated an unwillingness to correct any wrong or bad behavior (such as: bullying other students or instructors, or using parents against the instructors in order to get belt stripes or have their way regarding training, etc.) 3. If a bullying child intentionally and continuously hits smaller or weaker children, the bully’s enrollment agreement will become terminated and he or she will be asked to leave the academy permanently. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORDS: BULLYING: Using superior strength to intimidate (someone), typically to force him or her to do what one wants. SAFE: Protected from or not exposed to danger or risk; not likely to be blamed or lost; or, uninjured; with no harm done. SPARRING All karate members are highly encouraged by the grandmaster to attend sparring sessions on a regular basis. At the FKKA, we teach more than just POINT or CONTINUOUS sparring. All FKKA members are welcome to learn boxing and kickboxing as well as tournament or ring fighting competition principles, theories, and concepts. All fighters are taught to demonstrate control when engaging in the combative skills of martial arts fighting. When students practice or compete with little to no control or regard for another person’s safety, serious injuries can occur. Our black belt instructors encourage all students when sparring to practice with intensity, but before engaging or violating another person’s sparring space, to consider stopping the punch or kick before reaching the desired striking target (such as: head/helmet, abdomen, or ribs). Students who spar at the FKKA are only allowed to kick or punch three areas: the head/helmet, abdomen, or using light contact, the ribs. The helmet represents a potential punch or kick to the head or face, the abdominal area represents a possible kick to the groin, and the rib areas must be hit with a very light touch. In fact, all striking targets need to be of a very light contact or force. The expert champion point-fighters call this light contact, “feather touching.” During more aggressive fighting, the FKKA self-defense techniques, boxing or kickboxing come into play. Above all else, fighters of any skill set or level should never perform full contact unless they have been contracted or commissioned to fight in the ring, as to build a record. Otherwise, all FKKA fighters must perform light to moderate contact with great control and regard for the safety for all other class participants. If any FKKA fighter continually or intentionally hurts, draws blood on another class participant, or embarrasses a lesser skilled fighter, then he or she is expelled from sparring class sessions until the violator rectifies the behavior. JUNIORS OR PRE-BLACK BELTS “CODE OF CONDUCT” The junior black belt rank and status is designed solely for those between the ages of eight and 15½ years. Juniors are permitted by Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate and its business owners to wear the black belt before qualifying for the 1st Degree Black Belt Test Examination. Junior black belts not only have the privilege of becoming black belts at an early age; they are also granted a grace period up to the age of 17 years to test for 1st degree before their status of junior black belt is removed. After the age of 17, however, juniors who decide not to test for 1st degree will be recognized by Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association as “brown belts” (i.e., brown/black or 2nd brown). To repeat: students 17 years of age will no longer qualify for junior status; nor will they be recognized as black belts within the kenpo organization. After the age of 17, the juniors who decide not to test will hold “brown belt” status until they take our complete FKKA 1st Degree Black Belt Test Examination. Junior black belt graduates will remain with their names on our wall plaque after they have reached 17 years of age and older. From 1st Degree Black Belt and higher – all graduates will hold the respective ranks and status permanently, without interruption, unless the degreed graduates violate the “FKKA STUDENT/INSTRUCTOR CODE OF CONDUCT.” ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORD: QUALIFYING: Being entitled to a particular benefit or privilege by fulfilling a necessary condition; or, become officially recognized as a practitioner of a particular profession or activity by satisfying the relevant conditions or requirements, typically by undertaking a course of study and passing examinations. 2nd CHANCES AT FLAHERTY’S KENPO KARATE Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Instructors and owners believe in offering second chances, and more, to all students who fall short of their requirements for belt or Degree testings. As has been said many times at the Academy, in front of many groups of students, students who have proven themselves in class on the details necessary to pass a test examination are afforded the ability or right to test for higher levels/ranks. More important, we believe in not failing a student, but rather putting their upcoming belt or Degree on hold until the belt material of concern is cleared up. Putting the color belt or Black Belt Degree on hold is an indication that the student might not qualify for a desired level due to lack of practice or concentration. Most often, students who are lacking in practice, have taken time off after receiving the three belt stripes, or lack concentration will fail in their test performances. Again, students who are not practicing at the Academy due to time off, a hit or miss on class attendance, or lack of attention while training in class are subject to having their belts being put on hold! Students who are scheduled for upcoming testing, are highly encouraged to come to classes, practice often, and be serious about their training, inside and outside of the academy. If a student test is put on hold until another scheduled test examination, an Academy Instructor will usually offer free private lessons to assist the individual student to become better prepared for testing, and he or she might receive the next test free of charge. We, the Instructors of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association (Team FKKA), want to offer every opportunity for students to advance with us in learning and developing. If, however, students fail to perform the details within their next test examination, then the full testing rate will apply. Best of luck & good skills to all of our FKKA students! CODE INSIGHTS This would be a good time to share some insight about the “STUDENT/INSTRUCTOR CODE OF CONDUCT” information. The conduct pages are written for all belt levels, ranks, black belt degrees, and status. This page could also be considered a page break between color ranking students, and black belt instructors' conduct, along with additional student/instructor information. However, it’s not the intent of the FKKA CODE to be viewed separately or divided into two parts, but rather to be thought of collectively, creating an awareness of the quality of standards we've set for the conduct and behavior of all students and instructors. Keeping with tradition and evolution, it’s important to think about the CODE not as rules, but as guidelines to ensure that the quality of the FKKA remains intact, strong, and flows properly. The FKKA white belt students (beginners' level) are training their way up to black belt status or higher, while our instructors are humbling themselves to assist all lower ranking students on their rewarding journey to black belt. In addition, our FKKA instructors who have reached or exceeded black belt can attest that, becoming a black belt with degrees is like starting at the white belt all over again with new learning. Even before the inception of American Kenpo, black belt experts, professors, masters, and grandmasters were heavily involved in the evolution of martial arts or self-defense, specifically in Kenpo Karate. The great pioneers of Kenpo had a fundamental goal in mind when introducing the art for public interest, and that was to develop a scientific system of effective fighting techniques and material that would enable practitioners to adapt, modify, or change directions (flow) as needed in a life-threatening situation or confrontation. Kenpo, by its very nature, is a system that embraces the spontaneity of change. While all FKKA students and instructors are highly encouraged to adapt positively to change, good conduct and behavior are absolutes that do not change. Keeping with tradition, evolution, and the martial arts way, our black belt instructors must adhere to all the FKKA code of conduct insights contained within each CODE page. Now, let’s continue the CODE journey, together! RULES OF ENGAGEMENT The Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Association (FKKA) rules of engagement begin with steps to avoid harm-inflicting conflict, but then if that fails, we instruct students on how to win in many, many self-defense situations. Rules Of Engagement 1. Win. (Be successful/victorious in a conflict or contest.) 2. Avoid trouble/war. (You endure the most by not fighting every battle.) 3. Always expect the unexpected. (Anything could happen, so don’t be surprised by an unusual circumstance or event.) 4. Prepare thoroughly for battle/war. (A person will win who prepares – practices diligently – and waits to take the opponent unprepared.) 5. Quickly walk away from verbal confrontations. (Be humble: Stay calm and carry on.) 6. Use words - to defuse verbal confrontations. (Verbal self-defense is defined as using words "to prevent, de-escalate, or end an attempted assault.”) 7. Develop a serious outward expression/look of confidence. (Self-confidence is defined as a feeling of trust in one's abilities, qualities, and judgment.) 8. Learn the art of fighting “Without Fighting”. (Try to calm the enemy’s resistance.) 9. Develop “Evasive Maneuvering” skills. (An evasive action is a fast and effective maneuver designed to intentionally avoid colliding with a person or object.) Study Self-defense Law! 10. Develop a series of Stun/Hurt Strikes. (Inflict physical pain as warranted.) 11. Use Crippling Strikes. (Overwhelm an aggressor: Wound or injure someone with self-defense skills, so that parts of the opponent’s body become permanently damaged.) 12. Use Kill Strikes. (Last Resort: Quickly put an end to someone/something’s life.) Grandmaster Flaherty’s Note: Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate (FKKA) Owners always recommend that all students and instructors consider “Conflict Resolution” before resulting in hurting, maiming, or killing someone or something! (Killing is always the last resort!) F.K.K.A. BLACK BELT INSTRUCTOR CODE OF ETHICS INSTRUCTORS: You are going to be teaching students, and you need to hold yourself high. That does not mean being big headed, but rather being confident in your material and your ability to express that knowledge to others. Be a leader. Students will look up to you and follow your example. Every way you act and behave to other students, fellow instructors, the grandmaster, and black belts of higher rank will be copied by students, and if you behave in an unbecoming way, the students will see that as how they are to act as well. Always be positive, upbeat, and encouraging of others. You must be the driving force to encourage and help your students get stronger and eventually become black belts like you. Leave the issues of the day at the door. Come in with a smile and a helping hand and drive your students to the material with a strong work ethic. Remember, the material isn’t just for the sake of the art or to look pretty. The material was refined by the grandmaster for self defense and the role at this level is to emphasize to the students that what they are doing carries great power, and therefore great responsibility. A technique like number one can break an arm, shatter a rib, and/or crush a windpipe. Even our block carries the power to do serious harm. Encourage students to go all out in their training, but remind them about the great responsibility they carry as students of the FKKA—that they must respond to each threat appropriately and with a measure of restraint unless an extreme action is warranted. Remember: avoid the encounter at all costs but if you can’t, scare before you harm, harm before you hurt, hurt before you maim, and maim before you kill. Respect takes on a new meaning, especially as you rise in the degrees of black belt. You must always hold in respect those who are higher degrees than you and also, while teaching, you must be careful not to step on the toes of your fellow instructors, especially in front of students, for they should not see two instructors arguing or disagreeing over the material. It would be appropriate to correct lower ranking degrees, but do so with respect because they, too, are trying their hardest with sincerity. If there is an issue or disagreement between those of the same rank, do not let it spill over in front of others. It needs to be discussed in a private setting. If needed, invite a higher rank or the grandmaster to resolve all disagreements when appropriate, because nothing is more important than staying true to the material, both for your benefit and the benefit of the school. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORDS: ENCOURAGING: Giving someone support or confidence; supportive. Or, positive and giving hope for future success; promising. POSITIVE: Consisting in or characterized by the presence or possession of features or qualities, rather than their absence. Or, with no possibility of doubt; clear and definite. F.K.K.A. BLACK BELT INSTRUCTOR’S ETIQUETTE (STUDENT/INSTRUCTOR “CODE OF CONDUCT”) 1. As a black belt or instructor, you are expected to live by the “Student/Instructor Code of Conduct” (either written or unwritten, spoken or unspoken) and the tenets of the martial arts way. In addition, as instructors, you hope to teach your students of all levels and black belt degrees confidence, discipline, respect, honor, and strength of character. 2. One of the instructor’s primary goals is to protect the physical and psychological well being of all students with whom he or she comes into contact. In martial arts, all new students, regardless of their ages, are infants in the art and should be treated with patience and understanding. 3. Instructors should always agree to act in a sportsmanlike manner, to make every effort to foster a friendly and non-violent atmosphere for learning karate, and, always be willing to freely share their karate knowledge with other students in need (e.g., always be willing to lend a helping hand or foot). 4. Communication is key! Instructors must communicate well with their students and other academy instructors, especially with the chief instructors, masters, and grandmasters. More importantly, contradicting class instructors is strongly discouraged. FKKA instructors are always happy to discuss any issues or training matters in private and away from group observations. 5. Classes start on time and end on time. Try your best to be punctual regarding scheduled class times! Our parents and students might have other time commitments. 6. Instructors who are ill, or are not feeling at their best for training or teaching classes, should call in to let chief instructors know. You don’t want to get other students sick. 7. Instructors should always strive to be patient with each student. In addition, the FKKA instructor should understand that every individual is unique in his or her learning and performing capabilities. 8. Instructors should refrain from making critical comments about other styles, karate organizations, students, and instructors. Remember the old adage, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything at all.” 9. Instructors should always instruct students with open and honest communication, because students, especially young ones, will usually develop admiration and respect for the instructors; they will often emulate their habits of behavior, whether good or bad. 10. Instructors must never speak against or correct higher degree level instructors while in front of an audience, during testing, private or group class sessions, or training workshops, and never undermine or belittle another karate teacher’s instruction and knowledge in front of an audience in group or private classes, in our martial arts program sessions, or any other place. 11. No smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages, cursing, or using non-prescribed drugs is allowed around students, or anywhere you might be seen by other students, members, parents, or teammates. In addition, no stories are allowed of times or activities in your life which were not positive. Don’t talk about negative things! 12. Keep the touching of students with your feet to an absolute minimum. And above all else, don’t correct stances by using your feet to pull knees into position. Use your hands. In many cultures, putting your feet on people is considered degrading and some people take great offense to it. 13. Don’t carry on personal conversations with students or instructors when on the floor, mats, or training areas when classes are in session. Your duties are to teach lower ranking students the FKKA martial arts! 14. Disciplinary karate drills must never be assigned to students when you are upset or angry. Let students know that you are having them do disciplinary drills because you care about them – “If you make a mistake on the street, the attacker won’t make you do push-ups. He will hurt you!" In addition, FKKA instructors should always remain calm and clear headed when making any disciplinary assignments. Always make sure students understand why they have to do the drill (for example: to help them learn to pay better attention, or to help them remember to correct a repeated mistake). 15. There should be minimum socializing with students or lower ranking instructors. In fact, students should be like your children – have respect for you, but not be your best friends. In addition, instructors who become too close to students risk losing their respect, as students come to see the instructor as an equal, instead of as their instructor. Students of all levels and lower black belt degrees deserve to be able to respect you and to strive to be like you. Don’t disappoint them! 16. Instructors should demonstrate honesty and fair play among all students and other instructors, including students and instructors from visiting studios. Instructors must also demonstrate a strong dedication and commitment to excellence by promoting quality awareness throughout the association, and know and understand their place under the belt ranking system or black belt degree hierarchy of their karate association. 17. If you are having a bad day or feeling tired or down, that is your problem, not the students’. Your bad day cannot affect how you teach your classes or how you treat your students and guests. If you are a true FKKA Instructor, you are able to keep your feelings inside and show only what you must show – in a fight or while teaching classes. 18. Never humiliate a student or fellow instructor. Excluding our instructors, we might have students who are insecure or have motor or psychological problems. They need to be made more secure so they can develop self-confidence. 19. Instructors should remember that “students are students,” whether they are men, women, children, teens, white, black, red, yellow, gay, straight, or handicapped. Nothing in your statements, tone of voice, gestures, looks, etc., should reveal anything but your acceptance of them, regardless of what you might feel inside. This can also be taken to mean that individuals of all religions, ethnic backgrounds, physical and mental health capabilities, and sexual orientations should always be welcome to try a free class, and if they don’t interrupt group class sessions by acting out and disturbing other group members, then they should be able to join our FKKA team and academy. 20. Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Owners believe that it is inappropriate, in almost all cases, for an instructor to date or have intimate contact with any student or parent of any student. No such encounter should ever occur without the permission of the chief instructors. (Permission will rarely be given and only for relationships that are totally monogamous for both parties.) In addition, dating or having intimate contact with a student takes advantage of the special relationship created between students and instructors, a relationship that generates a level of vulnerability in the student. 21. Practice humility. Be as proud of another’s success, as your own! Be a positive instructor who demonstrates to others a good attitude for teaching Kenpo Karate, learning, and developing in the martial arts. Be a good ambassador for the FKKA by being respectful to others (both in and out of the dojo), and if your chief instructor asks you for assistance, consider your technical skills and help if you can. 22. Any student, instructor, or staff member who observes or learns of any breach, or alleged breach, of our FKKA Student/Instructor Code of Conduct (i.e., rules, policy, and procedures), or a failure to utilize common sense in a situation, is required to immediately inform DOJO management. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORD: YOUR ACADEMY: The DOJO is considered by top leading martial arts experts as a place for developing a set of fighting skills where students of all ranks and levels learn to treat people within with reverence, honor, and respect, especially toward the higher degreed instructors. SEVERING ALL TIES (Parting Ways Permanently) Severing all ties with students of any rank or levels should always come as a last resort. The FKKA instructors and grandmaster recommend resolving conflicts, situations, or any other matters with open communication before severing ties. Most often, with open, honest, and respectful communication, people can begin to restore relationships and heal their concerns or wounds. That said, in order to find common ground for restoration between student and student, or student and instructor, or instructor and instructor, all parties involved need to be in total agreement. At Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate, we are good to all students, at all times. However, when disciplinary actions are necessary, when conflicts arise, negative behavior issues should be addressed and repaired immediately before matters can worsen. It’s always better to clear the air! On the other hand, if all people involved in a conflict are not in agreement or refuse to communicate based on the severity of the matter at hand, then it would be in everyone’s best interest to permanently sever ties, and move on. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORD: SEVERING TIES: To put or keep apart: DIVIDING especially: to remove (something, such as a part) by or as if by cutting: to become separated. ABOUT THE BLACK BELT INSTRUCTOR CODE VIOLATIONS Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate is always accepting people for enrollment and monitoring their participation. Our karate instructors try their best to teach each student humility, patience, confidence, discipline, and, of course, respect. During the "old school" days of the mid 1900’s, people were selected by academy instructors for martial arts training by demonstrating their eagerness to learn. Most often, people were accepted who showed the chief instructor a seriousness about class attendance, a respect and admiration for all black belt instructors, and a willingness for hard work. Many “old school” martial arts studios have written or unwritten, spoken or unspoken, rules, policies, and conduct procedures to ensure organizational flow within student members of all ranks and status, including parent conduct and procedures. The quality martial artist must be willing to follow and adhere to a set of rules (the martial arts way), or, more specifically, to a CODE. Unfortunately, when the martial arts code becomes violated or trampled on by students of any belt rank or black belt degree, there have to be consequences warranted by their actions. The FKKA instructors will always accommodate our students/instructors and members with honest communication and reasonable feedback regarding their concerns and behavioral issues before contemplating a code violation, or an action that warrants disciplinary measures. However, if such measures are seen to be warranted by code violations, then the following pages will present the top five FKKA considerations for removing belt stripes, revoking or retracting black belt degrees, or enrollment termination. F.K.K.A. BLACK BELT INSTRUCTORS IN VIOLATION OF THE CODE OF CONDUCT. Black Belt Instructors who violate the STUDENT/INSTRUCTOR CODE OF CONDUCT will be considered under review by the FKKA for degree revocation, or karate membership termination. Listed below are some examples of the top “5” FKKA CODE violations: 1. VIOLATING THE “CODE” OF OUR MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY: The number one reason for black belt degreed instructors to have their degrees revoked/retracted or enrollment terminated is for violating the academy rules, policies, procedures, and of course, these code of conduct pages. BLACK BELT INSTRUCTORS: Keep up the great work by offering continued support toward the FKKA conduct pages, pledge pages, and the academy rules, policies, and procedures. 2. COMMON COURTESY VIOLATION: The second reason for black belt degreed instructors to have their degrees revoked/retracted or enrollment terminated is by not continually showing COMMON COURTESY to other students and fellow black belt Instructors. BLACK BELT INSTRUCTORS: Continue to be friendly, polite, respectful, but serious regarding your karate instruction to all members of your martial arts organization (the FKKA), and especially to your chief instructors. 3. STEPPING ON THE TOES OF ANOTHER QUALIFIED INSTRUCTOR: The third reason for black belt degreed instructors to have their degrees revoked/retracted or enrollment terminated is by STEPPING ON THE INSTRUCTION OF ANOTHER MARTIAL ARTS TEACHER. BLACK BELT INSTRUCTORS: Always, allow other qualified instructors from any school or style to have their time with group or private class students of any levels, degrees, or ranks. It’s important to remember never to push a class instructor aside or interrupt the class with your disagreements or opinions. The FKKA wants to thank you in advance for allowing other qualified instructors the opportunity to instruct classes in their unique teaching styles, methods, or ways. 4. UNWILLINGNESS TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT: The fourth reason for black belt degreed instructors to have their degrees revoked/retracted or enrollment terminated is showing an UNWILLINGNESS TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT with an individual karate member, spectator, student, black belt, or black belt degreed instructor. If you know that you were in the wrong, you should take appropriate steps to make things right again. BLACK BELT INSTRUCTORS: Taking the high road with integrity, and with a sincere, heartfelt apology would demonstrate to all black belt instructors that you are a person with DIGNITY. And, by conducting yourself with honor and respect, students of most age groups would feel extremely fortunate to have an Instructor of excellence, just like YOU. 5. DISRESPECTFULLY PARTING WAYS: Leaving a karate association or ending a black belt student-to-chief instructor relationship should be done with dignity and with an in-person conversation. However, although it is a violation of the code, not saying your goodbyes would NOT constitute reason for individual degree revocation or agreement termination. It’s just a friendly idea! BLACK BELT INSTRUCTORS: It’s a good practice to always say your “goodbyes” to the karate companions who have shared time with you in training classes, workshops, or seminars when parting ways from your karate academy. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORD: COMMON COURTESY: Excellence of manners or social conduct; polite behavior; or, a courteous, respectful, or considerate act or expression. FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTORS All fitness gyms, schools, or other institutions for learning require membership payments. Some require members to sign a contract; others just require monthly payments that are either deducted electronically from a bank account, or submitted on a month-to-month basis. Whether you're studying professional martial arts, dancing, gymnastics, music, or ice-skating, and learning from a business location with overhead and rent, there will be reoccurring membership payments involved. At Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate, we believe in offering discounts and reasonable membership rates on a per month basis with no contract involved. Our students, instructors, and student/instructor partnerships have long benefited from the generosity of our fee reduction on belt or degree testings, programs, and supplies. Many FKKA instructors can attest to the generosity of the “instructor payment program,” developed by Grandmaster Flaherty, which was designed to reduce fees for instructors who were taking group or private classes. Some instructors would pay as little as $28.00 per month! Many FKKA students and instructors also benefit from the free supplies offered (t-shirts, sparring equipment, and such). While partnership agreements are just that, “agreements,” we expect students and instructors to follow through with appropriate financial conduct and make all payments early or on time. The FKKA and its grandmaster have never asked members to pay more than they were responsible for, and, in fact, often offered the chance to pay less with saving discounts! If you are interested in more pricing information, please visit our “Pricing Policy” page on karatetoday.com. ON-LINE DICTIONARY: DEFINITION OF THE FOLLOWING WORD: AGREEMENT: Harmony or accordance in opinion or feeling; a position or result of agreeing; or, the absence of incompatibility between two things; consistency. TRAVELING MATTERS Travel is an important part of the learning experience. It enables students to learn martial arts system details from high degreed instructors in other cities, and to compete or test in front of organization masters and grandmasters elsewhere. FKKA members who have ventured to other cities say the knowledge they've gained through learning, developing, or competing is everlasting. Many martial artists have traveled from the Bay Area to Los Angeles and San Joaquin County in order to receive lessons from experts, masters, and grandmasters or to be tested for black belt degrees, or attend training sessions and workshops. Students/Instructors who follow a particular tournament circuit or martial arts organization might be required to travel. It’s also common practice for athletes to travel to a variety of hosting locations. In boxing, gymnastics, hall of fame induction ceremonies, ice-skating, soccer, and many other sports arenas, team members travel to different parts of the world to take part in event recognition, to compete, to build a record, a title, or to leave a lasting impression or legacy. In the martial arts, students/instructors travel from community to community, city to city, state to state, or even to another country for lessons, belt or black belt degree testing, seminars or workshops, or tournament competitions. Costs for this traveling will usually be provided by the students or their parents. Students/instructors who are required to travel should consider themselves fortunate if traveling is less than two hundred miles round trip. Regardless of the costs, TRAVELING MATTERS when it comes to gaining a better martial arts perspective, karate or self-defense insight, or developing a competitive edge. Parents are recognized and honored by the FKKA for their sacrifices in making sure their children can have the long-lasting positive benefits that travel provides. A MOTHER’S PERSPECTIVE By: Valerie Barrows Profession: Medical Social Worker Date: Saturday, November 18, 2017 As parents, we strive for the very best for our children, and picking a physical activity can be overwhelming at times. Martial arts takes time to develop and master, but the mastery of the art is a valuable tool both physically and mentally. When we looked into sports for our children, we decided we wanted them to learn self-defense. In addition, I wanted them to learn to respect others and grow mentally. The respect the children learn, whether from bowing or standing still and waiting for the next command, is an important life skill. Karate teaches great morals and values. Often I see this skill has been carried over into school, where it has helped to improve behavior and grades. Some parents believe martial arts promotes violence. I, however, have experienced just the opposite - great positivity in my children’s academics, motivation, confidence levels, behavior, and understanding of conflict resolution. Martial arts promotes self-discipline and socialization skills. Many of the instructors promote having good grades, being respectful of others, and are very supportive. A typical session begins and ends with a bow to the instructors, or grandmaster. After a warm-up, students practice particular techniques, which may include kicks, punches, and blocks. Children learn to have physical control over their bodies, greatly improving their muscle tone. Often, the instructors will have students of a higher belt level help the beginning students learn the techniques. This is a community that works together to strengthen positive social-psychological outcomes. Last week I decided to have my daughter start, and an orange belt volunteered to teach my daughter. When my son started a year and a half-ago he struggled with confidence and was often bullied. Now, he is a different kid, more confident, self-aware, determined, and motivated. Most importantly, the life skills he has gained at a young age are very valuable. Karate is an endless learning experience that provides constant challenge, keeping you alert and growing your confidence. Learning self-defense enhances one’s ability to feel safe, providing empowerment both physically and mentally. Techniques can be demanding, as each technique requires concentration and strict attention. Progress is marked by the colored belt system and testing for each new color represents a good exercise in setting and achieving goals. The children learn respect and discipline from their instructors. Flaherty’s instructors not only have the time and patience to enhance our children’s techniques; they challenge them by heightening awareness of their emotional construct both internal and external. Like schoolteachers, Flaherty’s karate instructors have a responsibility to their students to instill positive values. Children benefit from the mental stimulation of learning the choreographed moves of Kenpo and the discipline of conforming to the rules of the club. An adult doesn’t have to feel self-conscious about getting the physical benefits of the exercise provided. Karate instills the confidence to walk away from confrontation, not to contest it head on. To teach these values at an early age will benefit a child for the rest of his or her life. On an adult perspective, it can shed a bit of light through the stresses of our daily routines. A PARENT’S PROSPECTIVE FOR: KARATE INSTRUCTORS By: Donald Mak Occupation: Probation Officer (STRONG) SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGE: ALL STUDENTS TO DO THEIR BEST. A KIND WORD OR CLAP OF HAND GOES A LONG WAY. TEACH: ALL STUDENTS PROPER TECHNIQUES SO THEY CAN GROW AND ADVANCE IN THE ART. RESPECT: EACH OTHER AND THE SCHOOL’S EQUIPMENT. OBEY: THE GRANDMASTER AND HIGHER LEVEL STUDENTS. NOBLE: TO HOLD YOURSELF TO A HIGHER STANDARD. TO DO THE RIGHT THING, EVEN WHEN NO ONE ELSE IS AROUND. GRATITUDE: TO BE THANKFUL FOR THE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS YOU HAVE LEARNED AND THE OPPORTUNITY YOU'VE BEEN GIVEN TO HELP FELLOW CLASSMATES ADVANCE TO HIGHER LEVELS. A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE By: Gardale Gordon Occupation: School Teacher (Hamilton Elementary / 7th grade / math / science) It is an honor and privilege to share my personal observations on the code of conduct that is exhibited by the instructors of Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate. As an institution of learning, which is led by Grandmaster Flaherty, students are afforded the opportunity to thrive in an ethical, fun, safe, and effective environment that is conducive to learning. The curriculum and instruction are detailed, comprehensive, and embrace different modalities of learning. Student engagement is paramount, and the instructors equip all students with the necessary skills, strategies, routines, and knowledge in order to perform at, or above their established belt levels. The instructors have high expectations for their students, and consistently provide words of encouragement, along with step-by-step explanations and demonstrations of the day’s objective. As the learning objectives are mastered by the students, ample opportunities are offered by the instructors for students to demonstrate their proficiency levels. In addition, instructors continuously review prior lessons in order to insure that students do not lose the ability to recall previous learning objectives. Grandmaster Flaherty and his instructors continuously check for student understanding. If students struggle with certain objectives, the instructors diligently, and explicitly, re-teach the lessons in an attempt to ensure that all students are capable of excelling during testing. Once students demonstrate mastery of the required objectives, they are tested and begin preparation for the next set of objectives that are required for the next belt level. Grandmaster Flaherty and his instructors continue to run an excellent institution of learning, which truly benefits our community. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED! F.K.K.A. DISCLAIMER: GRANDMASTER RANDALL K. FLAHERTY IS THE SOLE FOUNDER OF FLAHERTY’S KENPO KARATE ASSOCIATION (FKKA) AND RESERVES ALL RIGHTS TO CANCEL STUDENT ENROLLMENT AGREEMENTS, BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS, AND THE RIGHT TO DISMISS ANY STUDENT, AT ANY TIME, FROM THE ACADEMY OR ASSOCIATION DUE TO BAD OR NEGATIVE BEHAVIOR THAT MIGHT BE IN DIRECT VIOLATION OF, OR IN CONFLICT WITH THE FKKA STUDENT/INSTRUCTOR CODE OF CONDUCT. ANY INDIVIDUAL WHO VIOLATES THE STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT WILL BE UNDER REVIEW BY THE FKKA FOR BLACK BELT DEGREE REVOCATION AND/OR ENROLLMENT TERMINATION. THE DECISION TO REVOKE OR RETRACT BLACK BELT DEGREES IS NEVER AN EASY ONE TO MAKE AND WILL NEVER BE BASED ON A STUDENT OR KARATE GROUP PARTING WAYS FROM THE ASSOCIATION. DEGREE REVOCATION IS BASED SOLELY ON NEGATIVE BEHAVIOR TOWARD THE GRANDMASTER, HIS KARATE ASSOCIATION, OR OTHER FKKA MEMBERS. ALL STUDENT BLACK BELT INSTRUCTORS WHO ARE, OR WERE, DIRECTLY UNDER THE LEADERSHIP OF THE ASSOCIATION GRANDMASTER AND FOUNDER, AND WHO ARE IN DIRECT VIOLATION OF THESE WRITTEN CODES OF CONDUCT GUIDELINES (WHETHER THE VIOLATIONS OF MARTIAL ARTS CONDUCT WERE SPOKEN OR UNSPOKEN, WRITTEN OR UNWRITTEN), AND HAVE IN THEIR POSSESSION THE REVOKED OR RETRACTED DEGREED CERTIFICATES/DIPLOMAS, SHOULD AVOID DISPLAYING THEM AS A MEANS OF SELF-PROMOTION OR ADVERTISING FOR THEIR OWN BENEFIT. F.K.K.A. “CODE OF CONDUCT” SUMMARY It’s important to remember that Grandmaster Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate Academy (FKKA) wholeheartedly believes in promoting student stripes, belts, ranks, and status, up to and including all black belt degreed levels. It is never the intent of the FKKA Grandmaster to intentionally harm an individual or business in any way, shape, or form. Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate has been offering martial arts training since 1991 and will continue to do so with INTEGRITY. The Grandmaster’s FKKA takes great pleasure in teaching students of various age groups martial arts, Kenpo Karate, techniques, arnis (stick fighting), weapons, sparring, kung-fu, kick-boxing, and more. We don’t have all the answers, but we are willing to share what we know with anyone who genuinely wants to learn. After people join Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate, they will fall under our STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT, and the integrity of our association and academy. Additional Student/Instructor Code of Conduct information can be found on the PLEDGE pages on KarateToday.com. Best wishes to YOU all !!! A FOOTNOTE At NO time has a person ever fully cloned or copied Grandmaster Flaherty's FKKA system of self-defense. Nor has anyone, at any time, assisted with establishing, organizing, and developing the FKKA forms/sets, creative fighting concepts, theories, and principles which all participants have long enjoyed practicing, including the FKKA karate creed. We encourage personal interpretations, however. As a student or black belt instructor, the greatest compliment you can give Flaherty’s Kenpo Karate is to reach for high-level degrees, and perform the material learned in your own unique way.