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OBW School Rules (DoJang)

Table of Contents

I. Deportment and Tradition:

All members, family members, and visitors must conduct themselves appropriately while on school property or representing Omaha Blue Waves. Respect towards fellow students and instructors is essential. Inappropriate, abusive, or disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated. Members must refrain from using abusive language or engaging in actions that cause discomfort, harm, or distress. Activities that could bring disrepute to the school are strictly prohibited. Any intentional breach of conduct may result in rank demotion or removal from school membership.

I. (a) – Health and Safety:

  1. Stay Home if Unwell: Members who are sick, have sick family members, have been exposed to communicable diseases, or have family members in quarantine should not participate in classes. Please prioritize the health of fellow members and stay home if you or a family member is ill.

  2. Injury or Illness Notification: If you have an illness or injury that affects your training but not others, inform your instructor to request modified instruction.

  3. Return After Injury: Students who miss classes or leave due to significant injury or illness must provide a doctor’s note to return. This note should confirm that you’re cleared for full participation or outline any restrictions.

  4. Report Injuries: Any injury that occurs on school property must be reported to staff immediately.

  5. Head Injury Protocol: Instructors and staff will not allow anyone showing signs of a head injury to participate without a medical release.

I. (b) – Visitor Guidelines:

  1. Respect Class Time: Visitors and family members watching classes should be respectful and avoid unnecessary noise.

  2. Waiver Requirement: No one without a waiver on file is allowed on the workout floors without permission from senior staff due to liability concerns.

  3. Entering the Training Floor: Non-participating members, family, or visitors must not enter the workout floor during classes without the instructor’s permission.

  4. Pick-Up for Minors: Parents or designated responsible adults should arrive at least 5 minutes before class ends to pick up minor students. We do not have the resources to supervise children who are left unsupervised elsewhere in the building or those who remain after the school has closed. Your cooperation ensures a safe and orderly environment for everyone.

  5. Minimize Distractions: Please keep noise to a minimum during classes, including talking and cell phone use.

  6. Limit Visitors: To ensure adequate space for observers, limit family members to one per student.

I. (c) – Martial Arts Floor Decorum:

Martial Arts students must uphold the tenets of our discipline at all times while entering or leaving the training floor. This includes observing the student oath and adhering to proper class etiquette:

  1. Uniform Standards: Uniforms must be clean and well-pressed for each class.
  2. Belt Etiquette: Students should ensure their belts are tied correctly.
  3. Bowing: Students are required to bow when entering and exiting the floor.
  4. Respect for Seniors and Instructors: Show appropriate respect by bowing and turning away when necessary.
  5. Attention and Focus: Remain attentive during class and avoid any disruptive behavior.
  6. Communication: Wait to be recognized before speaking during class discussions.
  7. Knowledge Responsibility: Students are responsible for learning the relevant theories, histories, and customs associated with their practice.
  8. Following Instructions: Always follow the guidance of instructors and seniors regarding participation in classes or training events.

I. (d) – Uniforms, Gym Apparel, Safety Protocols, and Safety Equipment:

  1. Martial Arts Uniforms: All uniforms worn at Omaha Blue Waves must adhere to the established standards for the martial art being practiced. Uniforms should be clean and display all required patches. Any embroidery must receive prior approval from senior staff. Members are prohibited from wearing jewelry while on the training floor in uniform.

  2. Gym Apparel: Apparel worn in the gym must be suitable for all ages and comply with the class requirements. Members should avoid wearing clothing that promotes other fitness businesses.

I. (e) – Floor Safety Protocols:

  1. Proper safety equipment and uniforms must always be worn during classes and school-sponsored events.
  2. No student should allow harm to come to another member if they can prevent it.
  3. Safety is a shared responsibility; students must report unsafe conditions or behaviors to instructors immediately.
  4. Be aware of your surroundings and your position relative to other students while training.
  5. Students should only engage in training under the direct supervision of an instructor.

I. (f) – Safety Equipment/Training Weapons:

  1. All safety and training equipment (sparring or otherwise) must be inspected by staff before use. Any damaged sparring gear should be taken out of service immediately to prevent injury.
  2. Members are required to wear foam-dipped sparring gear, mouthpieces, and groin cups (for males) during sparring sessions.
  3. All training weapons must be standard competition-safe materials (e.g., wood, plastic, alloy). Live or sharpened weapons are strictly prohibited on school premises.

I. (g) – Classes, Open Gym, Non-Sanctioned Training, and Private Instruction:

  1. Class Attendance: Members are only allowed to attend classes for which they are scheduled. All members must follow staff instructions during classes. Ignoring staff directions can lead to disciplinary actions, including rank demotion or removal from the school. Only students or instructors enrolled in a specific class may be on the training floor, unless they have explicit permission from the teaching staff.

  2. Open Gym: Open Gym is a scheduled, unsupervised time for members to practice martial arts at their own risk. It is available only during designated times set by the school and is intended solely for practicing forms. The absence of an active class does not mean Open Gym is in session. Members must not engage in horseplay or unsafe behavior during Open Gym. Additionally, children under 18 cannot be left unattended during Open Gym without a parent or designated adult.

  3. Off-Site Training: Any training conducted off-site is not considered sanctioned by Omaha Blue Waves, and the school accepts no responsibility for it. No instructor, assistant, or student should represent off-site training as sanctioned by Omaha Blue Waves. Members are advised against entering into training contracts with instructors outside of official channels, as this may lead to unsanctioned agreements. All private instruction must be arranged through the main school and paid via our management company. Omaha Blue Waves does not take responsibility for unsanctioned activities and strongly discourages them for safety and liability reasons.

l. (h) Testing Instructions for Omaha Blue Waves Martial Arts

For Beginner/Intermediate Students:

  1. Pretest: An instructor will give you a pretest. If they believe you’re ready to advance, you’ll receive a half-page test invitation. *This does not guarantee advancement.
  2. Keep the Invitation: Save this paper for your records.
  3. Accept the Invitation:
          • Go to the “shop” section of the app.
          • Select Gup Test.
          • Fill out the required information at least 3 days before the test.
          • Repeat this for each student testing, even if they live in the same household.
  1. Testing Cards: If you’re above white belt, submit your testing cards at least 3 days before the test.

 

For Advanced Ranks:

  1. Requirements: Make sure you’ve completed all testing requirements (e.g., community service, tournaments).
  2. Petitions: Turn in your petition with all requirements 30 days before the test.
  3. If accepted:
          • Go to the “shop” section of the app.
          • Select Gup Test.
          • Fill out the required information at least 3 days before the test.
          • Repeat this for each student testing, even if they live in the same household.
  1. Testing Cards: Submit your testing cards at least 3 days before the test.

 

For Black Belt Ranks:

  1. Requirements: Ensure you’ve met all testing requirements (e.g., community service, papers).
  2. Petitions: Submit your petition with all requirements 45 days before the test.
  3. If accepted:
          • Go to the “shop” section of the app.
          • Select USKF Dan Testing.
          • Fill out the required information at least 3 days before the test.
          • Repeat this for each student testing, even if they live in the same household.

Access the Forms: You can find the test acceptance form on the OBW member app, the OBW Member website, or the USKF website (black belt only).

Thank you for being part of our community, and good luck with your testing!

Omaha-Blue-Waves-Martial-Arts---Instructors-and-Rank-Promotion

II. Membership and Roles

II. (a) Member

A member is anyone currently registered as a martial arts or fitness student at Omaha Blue Waves.

  • Ala’ Carte’ / Inclusive Membership: This membership is for martial arts students enrolled in a plan that allows access to multiple core classes each week.
  • Special Classes Membership: This is for martial arts students participating in a one-day-per-week special class that is not part of the core curriculum.
  • Fitness Membership: This membership applies to individuals holding an active fitness virtual punch card or those on an unlimited fitness plan.

II. (b) Student Instructor

A student instructor is an advanced rank (gup) martial arts student undergoing instructional training with the goal of achieving their black belt. Student instructors are expected to mentor less experienced members during classes while focusing on developing their own techniques.

II. (c) Assistant Instructors

An assistant instructor is a lower-ranking black belt in training to become a full instructor. They participate in classes once a week to develop their instructional skills, as part of the educational requirements for 1st and 2nd degree black belts. There is no fee for students to participate in this training. Successful completion of this ‘practical’ can lead to instructor status.

II. (d) Instructor

A certified martial arts instructor holds the rank of 2nd Degree Black Belt or higher and has completed the necessary training to teach martial arts regularly. They must possess a USKF Instructor License or an approved equivalent. Certified instructors who are not employed by the school are considered students and continue to refine their teaching skills. Employed certified instructors are part of the school’s staff and are responsible for instructing students safely.

A certified fitness instructor holds credentials from a nationally recognized organization such as NASM or ISSA.

All instructors must maintain CPR and First Aid certifications from a recognized organization as a prerequisite of their rank and participate in annual training on the National Safe Sports Act.

II. (e) Staff

Staff refers to any person employed or contracted by Omaha Blue Waves.

II. (f) Senior Staff

Senior staff are employees of Omaha Blue Waves who have the authority to make supervisory or management decisions for the school.

II. (g) Volunteer

A volunteer is an individual who offers their time and skills to support the school or its students without compensation. Volunteers are not employees of Omaha Blue Waves, do not fall under school supervision, and operate independently. Their contributions may include organizing special events or other activities they are passionate about. Volunteers should inform senior staff of any planned activities that require school participation.

II. (h) Visitor

A visitor is any person who comes to Omaha Blue Waves, regardless of their affiliation or relationship with a member.

II. (i) Salutations and Honorifics

Members should use the following titles when addressing black belts:

  • Mr., Mrs., or Ms. for 1st to 4th Degree Black Belts.
  • Sabum for 2nd and 3rd Degree Black Belts.
  • Sabumnim for 4th Degree Black Belts.
  • Master for individuals with the rank of 5th and 6th Dan.
  • Senior Master for those at the rank of 7th Degree Black Belt.
  • Grandmaster for 8th and 9th Degree Black Belts.
  • Senior Grandmaster for 9th Degree Black Belts with more than 10 years in grade.

This structure ensures clarity and respect within our community, fostering a positive and supportive environment for all members.

Please Note – Specific Rank Promotional Requirements are outlined in the Member Resource Page. [This includes: Skill Sets, Special Requirements (i.e. Tournaments, Seminars, Community Service, and Instructional Points) and Time -In-Grade. etc.]

III. Weather Closing Policy

Omaha Blue Waves generally follows the weather closing schedule of Millard Public Schools during the school year and the National Weather Service’s recommendations at other times. Please note that we will always close in the event of a Tornado Watch or Warning to ensure the safety of our staff and students.

Occasionally, we may decide to close outside these guidelines. When we do close due to inclement weather, we will:

  • Post the information on our website’s homepage
  • Notify the media
  • Share updates on our social media platforms
  • Send push or email notifications to our clients

While we strive to keep everyone informed, we cannot guarantee that every member will receive notifications. We encourage all members to use their best judgment regarding weather conditions, even if we remain open.

Please be aware that Omaha Blue Waves does not offer make-up classes for weather-related closures.

IV. General and Unforeseen Closing Policy

At Omaha Blue Waves, we strive to maintain a consistent schedule for our classes throughout the year. However, there are occasions when closures and class cancellations are necessary. We make every effort to inform our members of any changes to the schedule. Key details about upcoming closures will be communicated via the whiteboard at the main school, through our social media channels, and via push notifications or email. Below are the types of closures that may impact our schedule:

IV. (a) Business Necessity Closings

Omaha Blue Waves may close for various business-related reasons, such as special events, tournaments, planned or unplanned repairs, seminars, and continuing education classes. These closures are infrequent, and we aim to provide significant notice whenever possible. If applicable, make-up dates will be arranged for any classes affected by these closures.

IV. (b) Holiday and Break Closings

Omaha Blue Waves observes major holidays and designated breaks throughout the year. Please note that no make-up classes will be offered for these periods. The following holidays and breaks are included:

  • New Year’s Break: December 31 & January 1
  • Memorial Day: Last Monday of May
  • Spring Break: One week, dates TBA each year
  • Independence Day: July 3, 4, & 5
  • Labor Day: First Monday of September
  • Fall Break: One week, dates TBA each year
  • Halloween: October 31
  • Thanksgiving Break: Fourth Wednesday through the fourth Saturday of November
  • Christmas Break: December 23, 24, 25, & 26

IV. (c) Staff Respite

Recognizing the importance of our staff’s well-being, Omaha Blue Waves allows for personal time off for vacations, health needs, and professional development. While we strive to cover for these absences, there may be occasions when classes must be canceled or the school must close due to these circumstances. If appropriate, make-up dates will be scheduled for classes impacted by these closures.

V. Student Vacations, Absences, and Schedule Change Policy

Due to the size of our membership, Omaha Blue Waves is unable to accommodate make-up classes for absences resulting from vacations or illnesses. However, on rare occasions, we may allow students to switch their attendance days during a specific week, provided there is available space in the desired class.

This process requires careful coordination by our staff within the scheduling system, and availability may be limited due to space or time constraints. We encourage families to submit requests for schedule modifications in writing as early as possible to facilitate the process.

For permanent schedule changes, please provide a 30-day written notice to info@omahabluewaves.com. This advance notice allows us to update our online billing and tracking system accordingly.

VI. Auto-Payment Policy

To streamline our operations and enhance the experience for all members, we require everyone to enroll in an autopay agreement. This setup, facilitated by our payment processor, allows us to focus on what we do best—teaching—while minimizing the complexities of payment collection. With Omaha Blue Waves, you can enjoy a smoother, more efficient process.

VI. (a) Auto Payment Agreement – Contract Types 

  1. Membership Types

    • We offer two main types of memberships: Regular (Ala Carte) and Premium (Inclusive).

     

    Regular (Ala Carte) Membership:

    • Monthly Memberships: Can be canceled with 30 days’ written notice before the next billing date.
    • Annual, 6-Month, and 3-Month Memberships: Often offered at a lower rate than monthly memberships. These can be canceled, renewed, or modified with one month’s written notice before the expiration date.

     

    Premium (Inclusive) Membership:

    • Lasts for one year, with costs spread evenly throughout the year.
    • Can be canceled, renewed, or modified with one month’s written notice before expiration.
    • Benefits include (but are not limited to):
      • Membership in the United States Kido Federation
      • Testing fees
      • Student uniforms (up to 1 per year)
      • Black belt and Hapkido uniforms (replaced based on need, typically every 2-3 years)
      • Learning materials
      • Sparring equipment (generally replaced every 1-2 years, with some exceptions)

    Note: Embroidery costs are not included in the contracts.

  2. Cancellation, Modification, and Returning Membership

    • All modifications and cancellations require written notification to info@omahabluewaves.com.
    • Monthly Contracts: Can be canceled, suspended, or modified anytime with 30 days’ written notice.
    • Annual and Other Contracts: Require 30 days’ written notice before the renewal date.
    • Annual A La Carte Plans: Your plan will automatically renew each month at the original rate once the contract expires, unless you provide written notice to info@omahabluewaves.com at least 30 days in advance. After the annual plan ends, members will transition to a month-to-month membership.

    • Annual Premium Plans: Auto-renew as an annual premium plan unless a request is made to switch to a monthly Ala Carte plan, which must be submitted 30 days before expiration.

    • All monthly plans may be canceled with 30 days’ written notice to info@omahabluewaves.com.

  3. Attendance Rules

    • Attending classes outside of your membership agreement without prior permission may incur automatic additional costs.

  4. How to Notify Us

    • To cancel or modify your membership according to the terms of your contract, please email us at info@omahabluewaves.com.

VI. (b) SPECIAL CLASS MEMBERSHIP

Special classes such as: Team Classes, Swords, Rotational Weapons, and Tumbling (etc.) are not included with either an A’la Carte or Inclusive Membership plan and must be registered/paid for separately.

VI. (c) CREDIT  CARD PROCESSING FEES

Legal Policy Notification
Addendum Posted April 18, 2024 – In Conjunction with Email Notification

Effective Date: June 1, 2024

Omaha Blue Waves Martial Arts hereby notifies all members of a partnership with a new payment processing company. To maintain current pricing and prevent an increase in fees, credit card processing fees will be reflected in members’ auto payment bills starting June 1, 2024..

VI. (d) ACCOUNT HOLD 

Account holds may be granted only for valid reasons, with a written notice provided 30 days in advance. Verification of need, such as a notarized doctor’s note or military orders, may be required. Holds on Legacy and Current Contracts are limited to a maximum of 30 days and may be utilized only once within a 12-month period. Please note that a hold does not alter the original terms of the agreement; the requestor agrees that the hold period will extend the contract by an additional month at its conclusion.

VI. (e) PREPAYMENT POLICY / NON-REFUNDABLE FEES / LATE FEES / INSUFFICIENT FUND FEES

Prepayment Option:

  • Prepayment is available on premium plans and comes with a discount.
  • By choosing the prepayment option, you agree that no refunds will be issued.

Refund Policy:

  • Admission fees for all plans (Legacy, Premium, and Basic A’la Carte) are non-refundable.
  • Any fees paid towards these plans are also non-refundable.

Late Fees:

  • A $30.00 late fee will be applied if payment is not received within 5 days of the billing cycle.

NSF or Bank Fees:

  • A minimum of a $30.00 fee will be charged for each attempted payment that fails due to insufficient funds or bank denial.

VI. (f) SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES WAIVERS FOR MONTHLY AND ANNUAL MEMBERS

1. Waiver Granting Conditions:
Contractual waivers are rarely granted and will only be considered under exceptional circumstances. Written documentation demonstrating exigent circumstances must be submitted at least 7 days prior to the next billing cycle.

2. Application Process:
To apply for a Special Circumstance waiver, members must provide clear evidence of a genuine need arising from unforeseen circumstances that impede their ability to fulfill the contract.

3. Acceptable Exigent Circumstances:
Examples of situations that may qualify for a waiver include, but are not limited to:

  • Death or Disability: Documentation verifying the death or disability of the member or contract holder.
  • Military Transfer: Verification of a military transfer affecting the member or contract holder.
  • Unplanned Relocation: Proof of relocation more than 35 miles from the registered address due to work or family issues.
  • School Closure: Documentation showing school closure resulting from unexpected events such as natural disasters, fires, lease terminations, or similar occurrences.

4. Submission Requirements:
All requests must be accompanied by appropriate supporting documentation and must be submitted within the specified timeframe to be considered for approval.

5. Decision Process:
Upon receipt of the application, a review will be conducted, and a decision will be communicated to the member within a reasonable timeframe.

6. Final Note:
The approval of a waiver is at the sole discretion of the reviewing authority and is contingent upon the adequacy of the documentation provided.

VII. Financial Dispute Policy

Financial Transaction Integrity and Enforcement

Purpose: To establish a clear policy regarding the management of financial transactions and the enforcement of contractual obligations to protect the financial interests of Omaha Blue Waves and its processing partners.

Policy Statement: Omaha Blue Waves contracts with a management and processing company to oversee all financial transactions related to its products and services. It is imperative that all individuals adhere to the terms and conditions of their agreements. This policy aims to mitigate risks associated with non-compliance and ensure the integrity of financial operations.

Scope: This policy applies to all individuals who engage in financial transactions with Omaha Blue Waves.

Policy Provisions:

  1. Compliance with Agreements: All individuals are required to comply with the terms and conditions outlined in their agreements. Attempts to circumvent these agreements will be considered a violation of this policy.

  2. Response to Violations: In instances where individuals knowingly and deliberately attempt to violate the terms of their agreements, Omaha Blue Waves reserves the right to take legal action. This may include, but is not limited to:

    • Initiating mediation or litigation to recover any outstanding funds.
    • Seeking damages for financial harm caused by the violation.

  3. Reporting to Credit Bureaus: Individuals found to be acting in bad faith will be reported to credit bureaus. This action is intended to protect the financial interests of Omaha Blue Waves and may impact the individual’s credit rating.

  4. Cost of Enforcement: All costs associated with the enforcement of this policy, including legal fees and processing costs, may be pursued against the individual responsible for the violation.

Conclusion: Omaha Blue Waves is committed to maintaining a fair and responsible financial environment. By adhering to this policy, all parties contribute to the integrity of financial transactions and the overall success of our operations.

Contact Information: For questions regarding this policy, please contact us at info@omahabluewaves.com

VIII. Store Purchase and Return Policy

  • Payment: All items must be paid for before you pick them up. This includes special orders, which must be paid for when you order them.
  • Returns: You can only return items if they are in new condition. Once wearable items leave our facility, we cannot accept returns.
  • Pickup Time: You need to pick up your items within six months. If you don’t, they will be considered abandoned and returned to inventory.

IX. Weapons/Pet Policy

For Safety:

  • Weapons: No weapons are allowed, except traditional training weapons and for on-duty law enforcement officers.
  • Pets: No pets are allowed in the facility, except for service animals as defined by the ADA.

X. Anti-Discrimination/Harassment Policy

Omaha Blue Waves does not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on protected characteristics like age, race, gender, religion, or disability.

  • Pronoun Use: If someone prefers a specific name or pronoun, they should let staff and students know.
  • Privacy: Everyone’s privacy must be respected, including their sexual identity. No one can discuss another person’s identity or family situation without permission. Violating this can lead to serious consequences.

XI. Safe Student Policy

At Omaha Blue Waves, the safety and well-being of our students are our top priorities. We implement ongoing Safe Student Training for all Black Belts, covering essential topics such as the Safe Sports Act, recognizing signs of child abuse, and CPR/First Aid certification. Adhering to established standards of conduct is crucial for all members of our community. The following guidelines are designed to maintain a secure environment for everyone:

XI. (a) Prohibition on Unsupervised Interaction with Minor Students

No Unsupervised Interaction with Minor Students:

Adult instructors—including volunteers, student instructors, assistant instructors, employees, and contractors—must never be alone with minor students unless they are relatives. Private social or personal interactions with minor students, who are not relatives, are strictly prohibited outside of school and structured activities.

Exception: Adults may participate in social gatherings or events where parents or guardians of minor students are present, provided that the event is appropriate and maintains a professional atmosphere.

Parents and guardians must always be present at school-related events involving their children. This policy is essential for upholding professional boundaries and preventing any misunderstandings or perceptions of impropriety.

XI. (b) Guidelines for Adult Interactions

While Omaha Blue Waves does not control social interactions between adults outside of the school, all interactions within the school must be professional. We are dedicated to creating a safe and respectful environment for everyone.

Please note that Omaha Blue Waves cannot be held responsible for any non-professional interactions between adult instructors and adult students that occur outside of school. It’s important for all members to recognize that these external interactions are personal and do not represent the values or policies of our school.

XI. (c) Commitment to a Safe Environment

By establishing clear boundaries and expectations, Omaha Blue Waves aims to create a safe and respectful community for everyone. We are dedicated to providing a supportive learning environment where all students can thrive, ensuring that their safety and well-being are always prioritized.

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