Re: OETC-Discussion Reminders: Tuition, New Schedule, Tournament, Testing, Blog

Question: "Are you still offering a 5:00 pm class for 12 yr olds and under on Monday and Wednesday?"

Answer: No, as of February, the only 5:00pm class will be held on Fridays. I made the difficult decision to eliminate the Wednesday 5:00 pm class because it was only attended by a handful of students. Although those that attended received personal attention, most of these students were not interacting with the larger class body and I felt it was detrimental to both the students and the program as a whole. I've reduced the number of classes I teach on Mondays and Wednesdays to create larger consolidated classes, strengthen a sense of family and build a team atmosphere in the OETC program.

Question: "If a student only wants to test for the 1-5 stripes between ranks is it still necessary to pre-register and pre-pay?"

Answer: Yes. Keep in mind that those students who do not earn their next belt are likely to have made progress and therefore still earn 1-5 stripes toward their next belt. Additionally, students that do not earn their next belt will be allowed to re-test twice at no additional fee.

By charging for testing in advance I hope that students will regulate themselves and reserve testing as a special event that requires more forethought, preparation and greater level of commitment than it has for some students in the past. The new process will also allow me to be better prepared and provide a higher quality and more rewarding testing experience. The pre-registration is used for professional certifications and standardized tests because it helps to ensure a higher quality testing experience and a higher perceived value.

Note:

I recognize that all plans are perfect in theory until executed. I will evaluate how well the new process works and make adjustments as necessary. As always, I appreciate any and all feedback from parents and students alike.

Scott Stevens