Thank you so much for your responses, both here and elsewhere (other boards), by email, and private messages.
To answer some questions how I relate with my old school, my former instructors and I are still very good friends. They have asked me to liquidate some inventory from the two closed studios.
Because of the things you've shared with me, I've received many ideas of possible options. I have narrowed down to five different options. One of them, as suggested by a few, is to defer the decision to be a school owner for a more opportune time in the future. I am not in a hurry to be one, hence the reason for my extensive research.
I've had some ask me about my business skills. That is a good question and a valid one. Here is a brief summary of some skills I have which may be transferable.
For two small organizations, I was on a committee creating and finalizing the articles of incorporation and bylaws, as well as working directly with business and tax lawyers making sure we were in compliance with city, county, state, and federal requirements. I have been a president of a seven-member executive board of 501(c)3 non-profit organization for six years, responsible for the overall operation, both with the selection of personnel and handling of financial matters. I also was the chair of a large state-wide convention handling several thousand dollars worth of transactions and setting up events and activities. I also am a partner with my husband running his computer business for more than 10 years and prepared the business taxes.
However, I know that running a school as an owner is an entirely different animal.
Another valid question some asked was about my teaching abilities. I was a high school teacher and a college instructor for about 10 years, so I do use different teaching strategies. I also currently work (as a profession) with people who have physical and mental disabilities. Notwithstanding my teaching experience elsewhere, My Kenpo teaching is limited. I taught other students throughout my Kenpo years (I've trained at six different studios), so I am cognizant of the variety of expectations how head instructors run their classes.
I continue to work on refining myself and increasing my understanding of Kenpo. I am also aware that there are others who do not consider me experienced enough to be a Kenpo instructor. I am a brown belt working towards my black belt and I do not feel I am ready to be an instructor. My plan was that if I set up a school, I want to hire some instructors to teach there until I become of a skill level sufficient to teach Kenpo well.
I appreciate all your suggestions, ideas, advice, and warnings; I learned much and have a better view now of the challenges faced by the instructors and owners of martial arts.
I will consider which options I have available to me, determine which will fit my situation, and go from there.
Please continue to give feedback. Thank you.
- Ceicei
