On Monday, September 16, Saint Joseph School proudly launched its new karate program for students in Grades 1-4. The program, which meets once a week, is being run in conjunction with Bill Gaudette and the Webster Institute of Karate. We are thrilled to offer this exciting extracurricular activity, which aligns with our school’s mission of fostering religion, respect, and responsibility.
Karate offers a wide range of benefits for children. Physically, it helps develop strength, flexibility, coordination, and overall fitness, while also promoting mental resilience through focus, self-discipline, and perseverance. By participating, students are not only learning self-defense techniques but also gaining essential life skills, such as the ability to stay calm under pressure and work through challenges.
One of the most significant aspects of karate is its emphasis on respect—respect for oneself, for others, and for the practice itself. This core principle directly ties into Saint Joseph School’s mission of nurturing respect alongside religion and responsibility. As students progress through the program, they will learn how to apply these values not only on the mat but also in the classroom and their everyday interactions.
Beyond the physical and mental benefits, karate instills personal responsibility and the importance of goal-setting. As students work toward mastering new techniques, they will experience the rewards of dedication, hard work, and self-improvement. This mirrors our commitment to cultivating well-rounded individuals who take responsibility for their own growth and success, both academically and personally.
The new karate program also provides an opportunity for students to bond with peers outside of the classroom, fostering a sense of community and teamwork. Under the expert guidance of Bill Gaudette and the Webster Institute of Karate, students are learning to support one another in their progress, building camaraderie as they navigate their martial arts journey together.
We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Webster Institute of Karate, which has been a valued part of our community for over 35 years. As a generous gesture of support, the institute is offering Saint Joseph School 100% of the proceeds for this introductory program. We are excited to offer this fun extracurricular activity to our elementary students and believe it will be a valuable addition to our after-school programs.
Stay tuned for updates as the karate program continues to grow, and we look forward to celebrating our students’ achievements.
