Student Spotlight

Dear Grandmaster Azad,

Thank –you so much for all you do. You are a great positive role model for all the kids and such a wonderful teacher-or rather master instructor. How the school is set up for the kids to learn special life skills and then making it a personal growth mission to apply those skills like respect or discipline to their everyday life is such a bonus to having him in your school. To see a first grader not only know what it means to have something like an indomitable spirit or modesty but to actually watch as he applies those values when he’s playing with other kids at school just makes me feel so proud as a parent.

Vince has been at our school only a little over six months and what he has learned already in that short time far exceeds any expectations I had. He may not get the hang of the actual base forms as fast as the older kids in his class but he tries hard and practices and totally loves training at you dojang.

Kasihamnida,
Vince’s mom

Jasmine is doing well at home. She has become more helpful, taking initiative to jump in and help. She is becoming more verbal and more polite. She loves coming to her karate classes and practices often at home. I recommend that she be promoted to the next rank.

Jasmine’s Mom

Dear Azad’s,

Since I lost my job things got hard for me and my family and my biggest worry was that my kid will have to stop taking classes at Azad’s.

I explained to him and he understood my situation giving his short age and a lot of that come from the great teaching at Azad’s that they not only teaching how to use martial arts but also how to reach to the thing that life from at us. And my kid is a good example of flat so thanks Martial Arts at Azad’s and teaching our kid so much.

Martinez family

Dear Azad’s,

We are extremely proud of Mikey and all his accomplishments. He is a very loving and caring person who always tries his best at what ever challenges are given to him.

Mikey is focused on tasks asked of him. He has grown greatly in the last year.

Mikey has grown physically and mentally from his Martial Arts training. He shows his teachers, parents and grandparents kindness and respect. Always using what he has learned from Azad’s Martial Arts Training no matter where he is.

We are excited as parents to watch him grow even more this next year as he applies his teaching at Azad’s Martial Arts to his everyday life.

Thank you
Mikey’s Parents

Mason has shown so much dedication since he started attending Azad’s. He always wants to be ready on time for Azad’s so his not late for his lesson. I’ve never seen him so proud. I can’t wait t see how much he will grow and benefit from this. I’m very proud of Mason.

Mason’s Dad

To whom it may concern:

I am writing this letter to inform you that your martial arts classes have helped Roberto accomplish so many things. As you know, Roberto is a shy young man. He was really shy throughout his elementary school years. Yes, he is still shy, but not as much. He will raise his hand in class to answer questions, participate in school assemblies, and talk’s mote to his teachers.

Your classes have also helped in Roberto’s Physical abilities. He is stronger than before. He’s still a thin young man, but boy does he have upper strength. He helped his father move heavy furniture.

Roberto is doing well in school. He is getting high grades in his classes. He has become more organized and responsible in school and at home.

Thank you so much for making a difference in Roberto’s life!!!

Sincerely,

Roberto’s Mom

Mr. Reitz,
I can’t even begin to express how fun it has been to watch Tori grow there her karate training. To see her become more and more confident in her ability to defend herself if necessary and her knowledge of a new field of study. She has enjoyed practicing at home without being told and loves showing her form and skills to her friends and family.

Her classes have given her confidence and brought her out of her shell.

Dear Sir,

Tyler, my grandson has benefitted from training at Azad’s Martial Arts by improving in respect for others and self respect. This is exhibited by his fair and respectful and treatment of his peers and family.

He went on a hunger binge and was starving, lost 4 ½ lbs. By his fine teacher teaching himself respect means caring for his own body he began eating and gain back 3 lbs, so far. He has gone 23 days consistently eating well, without Mr. Reitz help I am not sure how this problem would have been resolved. I am truly grateful for his help.

Tyler really enjoys and respects his classes and looks forward to learning more with each class.

Because of Tyler’s FAS and ADHS he has problems with balance and focus and these classes are a tremendous help with these problematic areas.

Sincerely, Joan

"Dear Master Azad, We are writing to express our appreciation for the excellent program in which our son Noah is currently enrolled. Since we enrolled Noah in the class his level of focus and discipline has improved significantly. We feel Azad's has had a lot to do with the improvements. Noah shows enthusiasm and excitement when it is time for class, and showing a lot of ambition to advance through the ranks...."

Michael F & Robin W

Grandmaster Azad,

I just wanted to shoot you a quick E-mail to let you know just how proud Jeffrey makes me. As you know, he used to really struggle with how to handle his temper when he either felt slighted, picked on or treated unfairly. He is gearing up for school to start (6th grade) and is thinking a lot about wanting the other kids to like him (he feels that most of them don't - really struggling with self-esteem) and think he's "a cool kid".

Yesterday a group of the 6th grade GATE boys had a pool party that he attended. He was excited to see everyone and start the year off on the right foot. Apparently, while at the pool there was an incident with one of the other boys. Jeffrey was going for another bag of chips and this boy, for some reason, decided that he didn't want Jeffrey to have anymore. Jeffrey was being silly and goofing around with the boy trying to get them, thinking that the boy was playing "keep away". Apparently, the other boy got frustrated and socked Jeffrey in the ribs hard enough to knock him down and make him lose his wind. According to both Jeffrey and the mom I spoke to Jeffrey handled it all extremely well. The boy apparently immediately felt bad and said sorry and helped Jeffrey up. Jeffrey regained his breath, told him it was ok and that he forgave him, and then they went and played.

I was so thrilled to hear that not only did Jeffrey keep his temper and forgive the boy for making a mistake, but didn't feel the need to retaliate either verbally or physically after being popped in the side. He kept his cool head and moved on without another thought about it. He has come so far and I am so very proud of him!

Just thought you would like to know.

Sincerely,

Jenney Herbold, Jeffrey's mom

Macey has not missed a session and comes well prepared to learn in Mr. Reitz’s class.  Her martial arts skills have improved over these last months as well as her focus, discipline, awareness and ability to behave successfully.  Azad’s backs up the values we work to instill in the home.

V. & Ron Tackett

The purpose of this letter is to discuss Avery’s development since joining Azad’s. Avery loves being involved in martial arts and he has shown a lot of passion towards becoming a better student since he has been in the class. Avery has learned the importance of focus and respect. Avery has shown more diligence towards his chores and he listens more intently when we ask him to take on new challenges. Avery really wants to be successful and to make Mr. Reitz proud. This goal has led him to be committed to stretching and practicing before and after class at home. I have never seen Avery take the initiative to try something new in front of a group of people until he joined this program. I see Avery’s confidence growing with his ability to perform new skills and to feel comfortable in front of a group. I am pleased with Avery’s growth and I look forward to the skills he will continue to learn. Thank you for all you’ve done for our son. He loves being a part of this class and I love what you are teaching him.

Sincerely,

Tammy

Dear Master Azad,

Tyrez has been attending class at Azad's for the last seven weeks. When he started I let Mr. Rietz know I wanted Ty to be confident, respectful, and learn some discipline.

Since Ty has began martials arts I have seen improvement in all three of these areas. Tyrez used to talk back and get angry and raise his voice alot. He still does but it has definitely become more infrequent. Rather than "I can't", I hear more "I can" come from him. I know that if Ty keeps up with the martial arts he will keep improving into a young man. I believe Ty is ready to move up the the next rank.

Sincerely,

Misa Abrams

I am proud to say that your school has helped Roberto mature into a young man. His attitude towards school and home has changed a lot. He was a shy boy growing up,  but now, he's not as shy as he once was. Roberto brings on challenges with a lot of confidence. He also set his priorities with ease and excellence.

Roberto used to be weak before he started your school. Now, he helps his father with lifting heavy furniture without struggling. Mentally, Roberto is doing great! When he has a problem, he sits down and thinks about it and solves it.

Robert is doing excellent in school. He is still ranked number one in his class. Roberto also made the honor roll. The one thing I am impressed with Roberto is that he doesn't let this get to his head. He doesn't show off. Roberto is an excellent young man. He doesn't cause any problems and he's always willing to help out.

I think seeing Roberto change dramatically from a shy, low self esteem boy to a strong, mature young man compels me to support him in continuing with his training. Again, thank you so much for being an important part of Robert's life.

Sincerely,

Estella Herniman

How can we express our extreme gratitude to you. Your kindness, understanding, compassion and care, true sense of family and community has blessed us more than you know.

The encouragement and concern you have given Jake has made such a difference. He has blossomed while in your care - what a difference from the first day he came to Azad's. From a shy boy to a much ore confident teenager - Thank you.

You have blessed us all, your staff is just amazing - our continued prayers for you all. Thank you once again ... 

Jake, Bob & Patti Metzger & Clan

Dear Master Azad;

We wanted to come to you & speak in person, but finances have made that a challenge.  Sam was going to come talk to you but he was unexpectedly hired, on a day to day basis, to do construction clean up @ night in Willows.

He sleeps days & has little time for anything else.  The work is for minimum wage.  By the time gas is subtracted, his bring home is approx. $40.- a night.  So there is very little left for a trip to Chico with gas being so high.  Since it is not permanent work, we thought that he would be able to come to you in person, but I couldn't wait anymore.  Didn't want you to think we were being disrespectful or ungrateful.

We not only wanted you to know the reason we were unable to bring Roger to classes, but also we don't want to take anymore advantage of you, more than we already have.  You have been so kind & patient where finances are concerned & we feel so bad, that we just can't take advantage of you anymore.  There is great guilt when we think of what we owe you and have been unable to pay.  Yet your care of Roger & our situation has blessed us so very much.  Someday, we pray, we will be able to repay you not only financially but other ways too.

You have been a Godsend--you & your staff have helped our boy SO MUCH. We remember how Roger used to not even face people to talk to them-let alone look them in the eye!  But with your encouragement, kindness & patience he blossomed. It brings a tear to my eye, and joy to my heart to see the difference-thank you.  We have always known Roger had social developmental difficulties & learning difficulties (ADD, dyslexia), yet you & your staff took him under your wing without hesitation and with patience & care he has slowly grown. The difference in him is nothing short of amazing.  When he was younger we were told by many that he had "mild autistic tendencies".  We are learning that it is possible that he may have a form of 'aspergers'.  We are hoping to have him tested for this.  Learning about this show us, even more, how BLESSED we are to have had you in Roger's life--thank you!!

When he was with your staff he socially grew so fast & learned so much.  You and your staff's gentle care of Roger has made such a complete positive difference in our boy.  Thank you for such terrific teachers!  Roger talks so often of them & the fun he had @ class.  He is very concerned that you & the teachers will think badly of him for not being able to come anymore. He has cried many times over this.  We explained it was our financial situation, not him.& assured him everyone will understand & still like him, since they are so good.  His response was that he knew that-he just didn't want to let Master Azad & his teachers down!!  We are so thankful for a child with such a loving, responsible heart!

Thank you for ALL you've done for him.  For your understanding & kindness towards us as we go through this very hard time.  It is so important to us that you know how very grateful we are to you for ALL you have done to bless our family.  It seems that my words cannot express the depth of my heart-so a simple THANK YOU, Master Azad will have to do for now.

God's blessings on you always--you are in our prayers--all our love

Sally Smith (Sam, Roger & Clan too)

Dear Staff of Azad's Martial Arts:

I have watched Dannielle blossom from a shy nail-biting little girl to a confident respectful young lady. She is no longer afraid to speak up if she sees a problem with her peers. Her patietence with brothers has also expanded. Dannielle is quicker to volunteer for things, including chores, and fusses much less.

She continues to be involved with her community both local and international. This year making sure that donated Girl Scout cookies go overseas to our military.

I love Azad's and love the changes that have occurred in my daughter and in our family.

Dannielle's Mom

Parent Recommendation Letter

Ashlynn has been so happy in the teen program and continues to excel in karate. Then karate forms, self-defense and one-steps Ashlynn can easily learn and practice. The life skills are refreshers from little dragons. She can without problems remember the above, she just does not always understand some of the more mature mental concepts of karate. I can see her progressing in this area, but she doesn’t have the knowledge yet to understand it all.

COURAGE: Mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty or in Ashlynn’s word’s being brave.

SELF CONTROL: Restraint exercised over one’s own impulse, emotions or desires.

Again, there life skills are the same as the Little Dragons and can describe the beginning of Ashlynn’s karate journey, along with her ongoing development. Ashlynn is becoming very mentally strong and has already conquered many of her fears. She is always learning to control her emotions, especially now that she is almost a teenage girl.

I still remember the first time she worked with you and how scared of you she was and now how much she absolutely loves working with you. She can’t wait to go to karate an it is a great way for us to make sure she gets everything done at home, including homework and maintains her grades as karate is the best carrot for us to use.
I appreciate you taking the time to try to explain things in kid friendly terms Ashlynn as she is still developing mentally and does not fully understand and execute some of the concepts. She tries her best to embody the principals taught through martial arts.

Thank you again for all you continue to do for Ashlyn. She still LOVES karate!

Ashlynn’s Mom

Master Azad and Mr. Reitz,

As I reflect over the past several months I am constantly amazed at how much my son, Jeffery continues to grow through his training. Again and again I see him reat to a situation (that previously would have left him in tears and losing his temper) in a way that is extmely focused and ruled wiht self discipline. He works extremely hard to apply patience, forgiveness of self, discipline and control to his daily life both at home and at school. His self esteem has grown considerably and it is a joy to watch him make strides in the respect he now has with his classmates as well as his teachers. In addition, he is very proud of the progress he has made and is excited about continuing his training.

J.H.

My son has been receiving Physical and Occupational Therapy since he was 3 months old. I have never seen as much progress as we have in the last 7 months that we have been going to Azad's Martial Arts. Dawn Womack is absolutely wonderful with him. He is able to do everything that everyone else does. She knows exactly how to modify the activities while still keeping him safe!

Christopher's Mom

Irsrael has been performing a lot better in school and home.

Attending at Azad's Karate has been one of the best things, that we have done for our son so far we are so happy of all what he has learned at Azad's school of martial arts.

Israel Mom and Dad

“Socially and emotionally karate has provided Kyle with solid life skills. At times Kyle can become frustrated and angry, he uses his life skills to calm and redirect himself. I also use review of his life skills to “ward off” potential issues with him. He understands the importance of using his life skills and is really seeing the importance of them as he makes changes in his behaviors and sees the positive from it. He is playing Minor Little League and can be very hard on himself and get in a negative mood. We have been falling back on using his life skills to change his mood and encourage him into a better direction.”

Kyle M. (Dad) Nicole M. (Mom)

“Roberto has changed so much since he started taking life skilled lessons at Azad’s Karate. Roberto has had problems with school bullies these past few years. He would always come home sad. At one point, he hated going to school. But now that he started these life skilled lessons, he’s changed his attitude. Yeah, he still gets picked on from the bullies, but he doesn’t let it get to him. He went from being a timid, shy boy to a young boy who will start up a conversation with friends and family. Roberto has also changed his attitude at home and at school. He does his chores without being told to do them. He finishes his homework every week. He respects adults and his classmates even though some of his classmates sometimes tease him. Roberto’s grades have improved in the last weeks. These life skills lessons have enormously helped Roberto in his achievements both at home and at school. He enjoys attending the lessons and practicing at home."

Estella H. (Mom)