In the American Martial Arts Institute, it takes years of training and dedication to earn the rank of black belt. For each student the challenges along the path are different. In the end, black belts in American Eagle Style have achieved a high standard of mental maturity and knowledge and an incredible range of physical skills. This rank would not have been possible without the guidance of instructors who have the ability to pass on the style.

The ability to demonstrate the high standards required to earn the rank of black belt does not mean that individual has the skills to pass on the style by teaching. Teachers must be able to take into consideration the student’s emotional maturity, body structure, age, and a variety of other factors. They must possess the verbal skills and understanding of the art that will allow them to present the same concepts in a variety of ways without changing the essence of those concepts.

To teach American Eagle Style, an adult black belt student must first become a staff member and undergo an apprenticeship during which they are taught how to teach the style. Staff members are easily identified by the black uniform top they wear. Instructors wear an additional blue instructor's patch on their right sleeve. The time it takes to become certified to teach varies, and once certified an instructor must be re-certified annually.

New staff members represent growth in the school and a personal commitment by an adult student to contribute back to their school and complete the circle.

The American Martial Arts Institute is proud to announce that Grandmaster Crandall has recently awarded Mr. Mark Spiridigloizzi, Sr. staff member status

Congratulations to Mr. Spiridigloizzi and his instructor, Mr. Cumings.