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.

All instructors in the American Martial Arts Institute began their training as a white belt.  A student who earns the rank of black belt may continue to train in classes for many years, and they are never required to become an instructor.  Likewise, black belts do not automatically become instructors.  Being knowledgeable and skilled in the art does not mean that the individual can accurately pass that knowledge to others.  Instructors must be able to take into consideration each individual’s unique body structure, age, gender, physical limitations, mental state, life experiences, and other factors.  They must possess the skill to articulate the concepts of the style to individuals who are different without altering the style from one generation to the next.  Teaching American Eagle Style is truly a challenging skill.

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.  In order to be considered for staff member status, the student must submit a request, in writing to their instructor who will present it to the Grandmaster.  Staff members wear a black uniform top, which makes them easy to identify. 

After months of training as a staff member, the Grandmaster may present the individual with instructor status.  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 and instructors 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 awarded Mrs. Christie Catera instructor status. Congratulations to Mrs. Catera and her instructor, Mrs. Freleigh.