ABOUT TESTING

1) A parent looks at a testing from a different viewpoint than the student to be tested. The student is highly involved. The student has the desire to experience how his/her fellow Taekwondo mate (with whom s/he was sweating side by side for the last few months) is doing, therefore we make at times testing a social event where everyone is involved. Caring for others, feeling for others, comparing yourself to others, being compared by others, being motivated by others, and motivating others are a few thought and feel processes that go through a students mind (or that I want to arouse) during testings.

 

2) In our fast paced world we unfortunately often have this get in, do your thing and get out attitude. Things become trivial and unimportant, without deeper meaning. We tend to brush over events because the next one is waiting around the corner. No time to evaluate situations, to get to the bottom of something, always pressured, slightly becoming insensitive to things and people around us. In Martial Arts, testings are held traditionally as a highly important event in one9s life. The students worked very hard since their last testing and their efforts are to be rewarded by opening the door a little flirther, letting them see the Martial Arts a little closer.

 

3) Sometimes, one or more students need special attention during the testings. A student may not be able to break the board right away or has problems with certain techniques. It is my intention and duty to bring Out the best in every student. What 8 weeks of classroom teaching couldn't do, I may be able to do in one extra effort (with the help of all the other students) during a testing. That sometimes takes time and it is an important part of my teaching strategy, requiring patience on the parents' and the participating students'part.

 

You and I know that humans are basically sensitive beings. Success and failure are too often lying side by side. I'm doing my part, to create an atmosphere of success and progress (with an occasional "flunking" of a student to be seen as a motivational measure). I have an obligation to the students and their emotional well being. I have my own special ways to go about that. After all, that's what prompted you to enroll your child or yourself in our school in the first place. However, I must ask you to reftain from negative outbursts during testings or classes as this affects all of the students.

 

I try to expand my relationship that I have with a student to a certain extent to the parents; but it is impossible to please all of the parents at all of the times. Please bear with it and trust that I'm doing the right thing for your child. If there ever should be something that you would like to discuss with me, do not hesitate to contact me. I will make time and listen to you; and I'm certain that we can find a solution to whatever it is.

 

INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS

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