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Review of Stripe Test Process and Requirements
At KC, we have a high standard of excellence for our students and we want to take a minute to explain the process and reasoning of our stripe system.
On the path towards their next belt, students will earn stripes as a tangible representation of intermediate goals. Stripes prove to be a good way to help our students understand that one cannot always jump immediately to “the big prize.” Many times it is important to set smaller goals along the way to achieving a larger goal. The stripe system also helps students understand what they need to know and what a reasonable amount of time is to learn and develop an intimate understanding of their curriculum. Students of all belt colors from white to brown will need to earn four stripes of their next color belt, and two white character stripes, in order to test for their next rank.
The requirements to earn stripes (and new belts) include time, number of classes, Taekwondo skills, and displaying the Tenets both in and outside the dojang. Note that skill is only one of the requirements needed to earn stripes. The time and class requirements are necessary to ensure that students have a thorough understanding and respect of their curriculum. We want to build lasting proficiency, and while a student may learn skills or forms quickly for immediate recall, studies have shown that consistent practice over time is necessary for lasting recall of the material.
We hope this explanation helps families understand why our instructors might ask a student to wait longer until their next stripe test, even if they know their form and techniques. We have developed this system based on sport psychology and experience in developing well-rounded students. Additionally, please discuss with your child that it's not a negative thing to be asked to wait longer to stripe test, or failing a stripe test. We strive to teach students that small failures are opportunities for self-reflection, growth, and grit.
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns!
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