Although we don’t yet have a firm date as to when classes will resume, we are working with our local rec centers to be ready when they do. We are still evaluating options that may work before that point.

So what will classes potentially look like moving forward? (Keep in mind we are still in discussion and open to your feedback)

1. Smaller class size
We will only be able to have a max of 10 including your instructor. We are still discussing how best to make this work. The most popular idea has been to limit each class by rank so for example Tuesdays would be red (all 3 ranks of red) and blue stripes, Thursday blue and green, Saturday white and yellow/stripe.

2. No new students
For the time being with the limited classes we will be limiting classes only to existing students. As things progress, we will certainly revisit this or perhaps offer a class option purely for new students.

3. Social Distancing means curriculum adjustments
We will support the utilization of social distancing and will not be sparring or teaching self defense in the way we have in the past. We can certainly re-evaluate for families.

4. Videeo supplementation
We have certainly talked about whether or not we can use video for continuing class. For many of us, this was a difficult option due to a lack of proper equipment or a space that lent itself to video and instruction. Grand Master Rankin has a private dojo, but most of our spaces are fine for our practicing needs, but not necessarily video teaching a class. However, the instructors are open to utilizing technology to help our students. It may be better to set up on an individual basis. Or once the rec centers are open filming class and allowing for download and video submission of students. We are still evaluating both the technology and how best to make it work for our students and instructors. We are still evaluating both the technology and how best to make it work for our students and instructors so this may become an option even before the rec centers reopen.

5. Testing
For those students who were eligible to test in March, or June, we will work with you to ensure you can still perform what you were to be tested on within the COVID-19 requirements. We will more than likely require a few classes to before testing to ensure everyone still remembers everything they need for testing, but we will get those eligible for rank taken care of. We know rank testing is a very important part of your experience and will work hard to continue in a positive way to keep everyone safe.

6. More Parent/Guardian involvement
Parents and Guardians are an important part of our martial arts students’ journey and with the current limitations will be even more important as we will need for them to be more hands on in a way maybe they previously have not been. Students do best when they have a partner to practice with. Self defense just doesn’t work against an imaginary opponent for instance. We will work with you to help you help your student.