Stripe System

Whenever an instructor feels that you understand and can competently demonstrate one-third of the requirements for achieving the next rank, you earn a white tip on your belt.  After the first stripe is earned, the instructor will award another stripe when the next third of the material is mastered.  After all the requirements for advancing to the next rank are demonstrated, a third stripe is awarded.  Students who have earned three stripes receive permission from the instructor to test for advancement to the next rank.  Students who regularly attend two to three classes a week typically earn a stripe every two to three weeks.