Assigned Class Nights:
Assigning specific class nights for students is vital for maintaining control and reducing confusion. It helps in three key ways:
- Prevent Burnout: New students, especially in the white/gold belt stages, are highly enthusiastic for about six weeks but can easily burn out if not managed.
- Enhance Programs: Limiting entry-level students to two classes a week positions you to offer a third class when they join the Black Belt Club.
- Manage Effectively: Knowing exactly who is coming to class and when allows you to manage your school like a pro.
In structured educational environments like high schools and colleges, students cannot skip classes at will and show up for exams whenever they please. Your martial arts school should be no different.
When a student misses one class, it becomes easier for them to miss the next, leading to a sense of falling behind and anxiety about returning. The best schools call students before the missed class ends. Less effective schools wait until the following week. A 24-hour rule for absence calls should be the standard.