Under the ATA, a person cannot become a fourth degree black belt until they are sixteen. However, Master Mike as not been part of that ATA since before we arrived to his studio (almost seven years ago). Jesse is due to graduate in December, but because it was her fourth degree Master Mike had told her she wouldn't graduate for a few years.
A week ago today, Master Mike talked to Jesse. He gave her two options. Option one was when she turned twelve she would take off her blue junior training jacket and go back to a white jacket until she turned sixteen. Then she could test for her fourth degree.
Option two. She would exchange her blue junior jacket for a red "instructor in training" jacket, take on more responsibilities in class, and help teach more classes. One year from when she put on her red jacket, she could test for her fourth degree belt.
Before we got into the car that night, she had already decided. She was going to get her red jacket. Not only does this mean she will have more responsibilities, but it also means she will retain her senior student standing. She is nervous and excited. And we are so very proud that she made this choice on her own.
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