Welcome to Week 9 of the Spring 2024 Semester with Sensei Ashton, Sensei Dave, and Sensei Sean! Please read all the information below, especially the "Important Weekly Notice' section, as it will pertain to any schedule changes. Parents who would like to be in the class to assist must sign the yellow "Parent Helper" sign-in sheet at the front desk, and please read the "Parent Helper Guidelines" below. The bottom of the page includes the ActivStars Athletics Policies, please read them. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.
A message from Sensei Sean:
Hello,
My name is Sensei Sean Milligan for those of you that don't know me. I was teaching at Ashton Ranch, and Kingswood before leaving to train with the Marine Corps. I was injured in training and will be back for a little while. I'll be in class to assist Sensei Ashton. I'm looking forward to seeing old students, and excited to meet the new ones.
IMPORTANT WEEKLY NOTICE!
Please read this weekly for any last-minute schedule changes, added classes, location changes, and other upcoming important events.
KINGSWOOD - SATURDAY, MARCH 30, 2024 - CLASS CANCELLATION
There will be no class on the date above due to Easter. All Prepaid/Paid In Full students will be given a credit for this class.
- Due to Saturday class being cancelled. Students that need to do make-up classes are more than welcome to come to Thursday class, March 28, at Ashton Ranch.
- Students who would also like to get more practice in for the tournament are also welcome to join. Please scroll down for class times.
KINGSWOOD - SATURDAY, APRIL 6, 2024 - NO CLASS
There will be no class on the above date due to our Spring Karate Tournament.
- Due to no class this Saturday due to the tournament, students that need to do make-up classes are more than welcome to come to Thursday class, April 4, at Ashton Ranch.
- Students who would also like to get more practice in for the tournament are also welcome to join. Please scroll down for class times.
PHOENIX VALLEY OF THE SUN KARATE TOURNAMENT < PLEASE USE THE LINK FOR MORE INFORMATION
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: SUNDAY, MARCH 31, 2024
DATE: APRIL 6, 2024 GREEN BELTS (9 & OLDER), BLUE - BLACK BELTS
APRIL 7, 2024 WHITE, YELLOW, & GREEN BELTS (4-8)
LOCATION: WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL - 2217 W GLENDALE AVE, PHOENIX 85021
------------------------------
KINGSWOOD TIME CHANGES FOR SPARRING, INTERMEDIATE, AND ADVANCED CLASSES
SPARRING 12:30 PM – 1:15 PM
BLUE – PURPLE BELTS 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM
ORANGE BELTS AND ABOVE; ADULTS 2:15 PM – 3:30 PM
------------------------------
ABSENCES
All missed classes must be made up BEFORE belt rank testing. Students without perfect attendance will receive a certificate and medal. Students may make the classes up the following semester, and test before the next scheduled test. Please check the Check-In Desk for the Absenteeism report, if you are unsure about absences please ask one of the Secretaries.
TESTING DATES
ASHTON RANCH : THURSDAY, MAY 2, 2024
KINGSWOOD: SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2024
______________________________STUDENT PICK UP
Parents MUST accompany children ages 4-17 during pick up. Children will not be released unless a parent/guardian is with the student. However, A Student Walker Form may be filled out if you feel your child/children are safe to check-in and leave by themselves. The form will be available at the check-in desk. Afterwards, your child/children will be allowed to leave without a parent/guardian.
______________________________
BEFORE COMING TO CLASS
* Parents please be sure to check-in online prior to coming to class every week
** You will not need to do this for the first class, as students are automatically checked-in when you register
* Parents please check-in with the class secretaries upon arrival every week. If they are not checked-in in person, then they will be marked absent.
** This is to ensure proper attendance for each student
* Please be sure to read the Parent Helper Guidelines below if you would like to participate as a Parent Helper
______________________________
CLASS ETIQUETTE
* Students please bow before entering the dojo (gym/cafeteria)
* Students please take off shoes or wear karate shoes
** Shoes can be placed in a designated area provided by the instructor
** KARATE SHOES: < USE THE LINK
* Students please bow before leaving the dojo (gym/cafeteria)
* Students please use "Yes, Sir" or "Yes, Ma'am" during class
______________________________
ASHTON RANCH MIDDLE SCHOOL - THURSDAY NIGHTS
* 5:45 PM - 6:30 PM BEGINNER (AGES 4-7)
* 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM BEGINNER, YELLOW, AND GREEN BELTS (AGES 8+)
* 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM SPECIALS ($3.00) - SPARRING
* 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM BLUE BELTS AND ABOVE; ADULTS
------------------------------
KINGSWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - SATURDAYS
* 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM BEGINNER - YELLOW BELTS (AGES 4-7)
* 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM BEGINNER - GREEN BELTS (AGES 8+)
* 12:30 PM - 1:15 PM SPECIALS ($3.00) - SPARRING
* 1:15 PM - 2:15 PM BLUE - PURPLE BELTS
* 2:15 PM - 3:30 PM ORANGE BELTS AND ABOVE; ADULTS
______________________________
SPARRING/SPECIALS CLASS
Each ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS Instructor offers his/her specialty weapon, sparring, or other drills during this 30-minute sparring class. It can vary from location to location. Sparring/Specialty class cost is $3 in addition to the regular lesson fee and is 30 minutes long.
This semester will have sparring as our Specials! This may change partway through the semester. Please be sure to have all necessary sparring gear in order to participate in class. You may use the link in "GET THE GEAR" to purchase sparring gear. See the schedule above for the time of your location's Special's Class.
Sparring is open to students ranked GREEN BELT and ABOVE.
______________________________
Each ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS Instructor offers his/her specialty weapon, sparring, or other drills during this 30-minute sparring class. It can vary from location to location. Sparring/Specialty class cost is $3 in addition to the regular lesson fee and is 30 minutes long.
This semester will have sparring as our Specials! This may change partway through the semester. Please be sure to have all necessary sparring gear in order to participate in class. You may use the link in "GET THE GEAR" to purchase sparring gear. See the schedule above for the time of your location's Special's Class.
Sparring is open to students ranked GREEN BELT and ABOVE.
______________________________
PARENT HELPER GUIDELINES
* If you sign in as a Parent Helper, then you will be required to assist with class/practice. Parent Helpers are NOT allowed to sit down and merely observe the class. If we allow this, then other parents will view this as unfair.
* Please sign the YELLOW Parent Helper sign-in sheet before assisting in class/practice.
* Please DO NOT bring other children to class - (i.e., a younger sister or brother)!
* Parent Helpers AT NO TIME may discipline students, always alert the instructor or Coach to problems. ALWAYS BE COURTEOUS & POLITE WHEN TALKING WITH STUDENTS & PARENTS.
* Please use a calm and reassuring tone of voice while talking to students.
* Use positive reinforcement towards students. Example: "Good job, you're doing very well!" Never "belittle a student."
* Parent Helpers must always go in pairs when escorting students to bathrooms. If no other parent helpers are available, have the class secretary or advanced student assist you.
* Please be as quiet as possible during class/practice, noisy helpers will be asked to wait outside.
* Parent Helpers at no time may get into inventory/merchandise, drop box, or class materials without consent of the instructor or coach.
* Please dress in appropriate clothing to assist. Example, do not wear bikini tops, miniskirts, T-shirts with foul language, etc.
HELPFUL TASKS TO ASSIST DURING INSTRUCTION
* DOOR GUARD: Primary Duty is to effectively guard all exits, do not allow students to leave the facility unless with a parent or guardian.
* Keep a helpful eye on students, look for students who may have to use the bathroom or students who may be getting sick. Watch for dangerous situations and advise the instructor/coach immediately.
* Help with lining up students and preparing students for instruction.
* Watch instructors teaching gear and belongings.
* Help to keep the facility clean and parents in their designated areas to wait for pick-up. Assist with putting the facility back into order at the end of the day/night.
* Help with holding body shields, etc.
**Any further questions, concerns, or comments should be directed to your instructor or coach.
______________________________
ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS SECURITY POLICY: We take great steps to provide the safest, uninterrupted learning environment for your child. Parents are invited to watch the first lesson and the awards program. Spectators are not permitted during regular classes as children get easily distracted and may not focus on the instructor's instructions. An environment with minimal distractions provides a better learning atmosphere.
* To prevent unwanted guests and strangers in the classroom, ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS, our sponsors, and facilities require everyone to sign in on the forms provided. Parents are encouraged to volunteer as "Parent Helpers". Volunteers are needed in each class to assist the instructor. Parents, when volunteering as helpers, please read and sign the Parent Helper Sign-In Sheet located by the check-in box.
* At each class, Parent Helpers need to:
* Sign-In on the Parent Helper Form
* Be able to assist without distractions; do not have other children (younger or older siblings) with them. Children (not enrolled in our program) are not allowed to stay inside the facility.
* Wear a Parent Helper I.D. while assisting. Parent Helper I.D.s are issued upon check-in.
* Be willing to assist with class functions as directed by the instructor.
* Additional Parent Nights may be scheduled pending facility and sponsor approval; your instructor will communicate any additions directly.
* As a courtesy, we ask that additional children or guests brought to the facility during check-in and pick-up are always monitored by parents!
** Parents/Guardians PLEASE READ the attached Yellow Parent Helper Volunteer Release/Acknowledgement Form - the sign-in sheet will be available at the location upon check-in
MEDICAL CONDITION/DISABILITY: We encourage parents that have students with a serious medical condition or a disability to stay weekly with their child. Parents are also required to inform the instructor and fill out a Medical Disability Form.
YOUR CHILD'S SAFETY IS OUR #1 PRIORITY!
Please physically walk your child to and from the facility and teaching area; we do not want children going outside alone. Do not drop off your child and drive away without first ensuring that the classroom is open, and the coach is present. If you wait in your car during your child's class, please come inside 5 minutes prior to the end of class to listen to announcements and walk your child out to your car. Please explain to your child that he/she is required to wait in our holding area until you pick him/her up after class. All students are required to wait in a holding area; students will not be allowed to leave or wait outside! The exception to this rule applies only if a parent signs a Walker Release Form, giving the student permission to walk to and from class without an adult.
MAKE-UP CLASSES: We know that there may be times when your child cannot attend class. Missed classes can be made up by attending two classes back-to-back (their regular class and the class either before or after the regular class). Make-up classes must be either pre-paid or paid the day the make-up is done.
* Please inform the class secretary at the check-in table that your child will be taking (2) classes, and she/he will issue a make-up wristband to your student. Remember to tell your child when he/she is doing a make-up class!
CANCELLATIONS: There are times when we may have to cancel a class due to holidays, school conflict, or bad weather. If possible, an email or note is sent out the week before to inform you of the cancellation.
* In some cases, when possible, we will offer an online Zoom class, or the course will be extended.
* If your child misses a class, please check your email, or call the ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS office or log-on to our website www.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE: All missed classes must be made up BEFORE belt rank testing. Students without perfect attendance will receive a certificate and medal. Students may make the classes up the following semester, and test before the next scheduled test.
CLASS COMMUNICATION: ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS communicates with parents and students through written communication, primarily through email. Please be sure that we have an updated email address in our records, or you will not receive these notices, and you could miss important class information. We will also occasionally send out text messages, notes, and fliers regarding upcoming events, class cancellations, etc.
PLEASE READ EVERY EMAIL or HANDOUT YOUR STUDENT BRINGS HOME FROM EVERY CLASS!
ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS MERCHANDISE: ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS merchandise is purchased at wholesale prices, and the savings are passed on to you. All merchandise is ONLY available for purchase online at www.store.
* Students are encouraged to have a karate uniform (gi), which provides comfort and freedom of movement. White & Yellow Belts can purchase the beginner ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS Gi/uniform. Green-Blue Belt students may upgrade their uniforms to the intermediate Gi/uniform. Advanced students Purple Belts & above may purchase the advanced Gi/uniform. All ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS Gis are quality middleweight uniforms!
RETURNS & EXCHANGES: All claims and return requests must be made within ten business days of receipt of goods.
* Worn garments or garments with numbers or any other modifications, decorations, or customizations may not be returned.
* Any defective goods may be returned but must follow our 10-day return policy.
* No refunds are given for apparel or gear which has been worn or used.
* Please be sure to inspect your merchandise upon receipt of your order. We maintain the right to inspect the returned merchandise to determine whether replacement or adjustment is valid. If merchandise is returned after the 10-day inspection period, a 15% restocking fee will be applied.
REFUND POLICY: We do not give refunds for prepaid students after the third week of the semester. This is due to fixed insurance costs incurred by the fourth week. Any refunds after the third week of the semester will be issued as class credit vouchers. Registration fees and classes already attended will not be refunded. Refund requests must be submitted through email to the Accounting Department, accounting@
______________________________
* If you sign in as a Parent Helper, then you will be required to assist with class/practice. Parent Helpers are NOT allowed to sit down and merely observe the class. If we allow this, then other parents will view this as unfair.
* Please sign the YELLOW Parent Helper sign-in sheet before assisting in class/practice.
* Please DO NOT bring other children to class - (i.e., a younger sister or brother)!
* Parent Helpers AT NO TIME may discipline students, always alert the instructor or Coach to problems. ALWAYS BE COURTEOUS & POLITE WHEN TALKING WITH STUDENTS & PARENTS.
* Please use a calm and reassuring tone of voice while talking to students.
* Use positive reinforcement towards students. Example: "Good job, you're doing very well!" Never "belittle a student."
* Parent Helpers must always go in pairs when escorting students to bathrooms. If no other parent helpers are available, have the class secretary or advanced student assist you.
* Please be as quiet as possible during class/practice, noisy helpers will be asked to wait outside.
* Parent Helpers at no time may get into inventory/merchandise, drop box, or class materials without consent of the instructor or coach.
* Please dress in appropriate clothing to assist. Example, do not wear bikini tops, miniskirts, T-shirts with foul language, etc.
HELPFUL TASKS TO ASSIST DURING INSTRUCTION
* DOOR GUARD: Primary Duty is to effectively guard all exits, do not allow students to leave the facility unless with a parent or guardian.
* Keep a helpful eye on students, look for students who may have to use the bathroom or students who may be getting sick. Watch for dangerous situations and advise the instructor/coach immediately.
* Help with lining up students and preparing students for instruction.
* Watch instructors teaching gear and belongings.
* Help to keep the facility clean and parents in their designated areas to wait for pick-up. Assist with putting the facility back into order at the end of the day/night.
* Help with holding body shields, etc.
**Any further questions, concerns, or comments should be directed to your instructor or coach.
______________________________
ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS SECURITY POLICY: We take great steps to provide the safest, uninterrupted learning environment for your child. Parents are invited to watch the first lesson and the awards program. Spectators are not permitted during regular classes as children get easily distracted and may not focus on the instructor's instructions. An environment with minimal distractions provides a better learning atmosphere.
* To prevent unwanted guests and strangers in the classroom, ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS, our sponsors, and facilities require everyone to sign in on the forms provided. Parents are encouraged to volunteer as "Parent Helpers". Volunteers are needed in each class to assist the instructor. Parents, when volunteering as helpers, please read and sign the Parent Helper Sign-In Sheet located by the check-in box.
* At each class, Parent Helpers need to:
* Sign-In on the Parent Helper Form
* Be able to assist without distractions; do not have other children (younger or older siblings) with them. Children (not enrolled in our program) are not allowed to stay inside the facility.
* Wear a Parent Helper I.D. while assisting. Parent Helper I.D.s are issued upon check-in.
* Be willing to assist with class functions as directed by the instructor.
* Additional Parent Nights may be scheduled pending facility and sponsor approval; your instructor will communicate any additions directly.
* As a courtesy, we ask that additional children or guests brought to the facility during check-in and pick-up are always monitored by parents!
** Parents/Guardians PLEASE READ the attached Yellow Parent Helper Volunteer Release/Acknowledgement Form - the sign-in sheet will be available at the location upon check-in
MEDICAL CONDITION/DISABILITY: We encourage parents that have students with a serious medical condition or a disability to stay weekly with their child. Parents are also required to inform the instructor and fill out a Medical Disability Form.
YOUR CHILD'S SAFETY IS OUR #1 PRIORITY!
Please physically walk your child to and from the facility and teaching area; we do not want children going outside alone. Do not drop off your child and drive away without first ensuring that the classroom is open, and the coach is present. If you wait in your car during your child's class, please come inside 5 minutes prior to the end of class to listen to announcements and walk your child out to your car. Please explain to your child that he/she is required to wait in our holding area until you pick him/her up after class. All students are required to wait in a holding area; students will not be allowed to leave or wait outside! The exception to this rule applies only if a parent signs a Walker Release Form, giving the student permission to walk to and from class without an adult.
MAKE-UP CLASSES: We know that there may be times when your child cannot attend class. Missed classes can be made up by attending two classes back-to-back (their regular class and the class either before or after the regular class). Make-up classes must be either pre-paid or paid the day the make-up is done.
* Please inform the class secretary at the check-in table that your child will be taking (2) classes, and she/he will issue a make-up wristband to your student. Remember to tell your child when he/she is doing a make-up class!
CANCELLATIONS: There are times when we may have to cancel a class due to holidays, school conflict, or bad weather. If possible, an email or note is sent out the week before to inform you of the cancellation.
* In some cases, when possible, we will offer an online Zoom class, or the course will be extended.
* If your child misses a class, please check your email, or call the ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS office or log-on to our website www.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE: All missed classes must be made up BEFORE belt rank testing. Students without perfect attendance will receive a certificate and medal. Students may make the classes up the following semester, and test before the next scheduled test.
CLASS COMMUNICATION: ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS communicates with parents and students through written communication, primarily through email. Please be sure that we have an updated email address in our records, or you will not receive these notices, and you could miss important class information. We will also occasionally send out text messages, notes, and fliers regarding upcoming events, class cancellations, etc.
PLEASE READ EVERY EMAIL or HANDOUT YOUR STUDENT BRINGS HOME FROM EVERY CLASS!
ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS MERCHANDISE: ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS merchandise is purchased at wholesale prices, and the savings are passed on to you. All merchandise is ONLY available for purchase online at www.store.
* Students are encouraged to have a karate uniform (gi), which provides comfort and freedom of movement. White & Yellow Belts can purchase the beginner ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS Gi/uniform. Green-Blue Belt students may upgrade their uniforms to the intermediate Gi/uniform. Advanced students Purple Belts & above may purchase the advanced Gi/uniform. All ACTIVSTARS ATHLETICS Gis are quality middleweight uniforms!
RETURNS & EXCHANGES: All claims and return requests must be made within ten business days of receipt of goods.
* Worn garments or garments with numbers or any other modifications, decorations, or customizations may not be returned.
* Any defective goods may be returned but must follow our 10-day return policy.
* No refunds are given for apparel or gear which has been worn or used.
* Please be sure to inspect your merchandise upon receipt of your order. We maintain the right to inspect the returned merchandise to determine whether replacement or adjustment is valid. If merchandise is returned after the 10-day inspection period, a 15% restocking fee will be applied.
REFUND POLICY: We do not give refunds for prepaid students after the third week of the semester. This is due to fixed insurance costs incurred by the fourth week. Any refunds after the third week of the semester will be issued as class credit vouchers. Registration fees and classes already attended will not be refunded. Refund requests must be submitted through email to the Accounting Department, accounting@
______________________________
