Looking Ahead to 2026: Building a Stronger Dojo Together

Dear Dojo Family,

As we begin the new year, we want to acknowledge a few important realities so we can continue building a strong, healthy dojo — one where interest and enthusiasm are supported, hard work leads to success, and everyone involved is valued for the work they do.

The truth is that the way dojos operated before COVID is no longer sustainable. That’s not unique to us — it’s true across education, sports, and small businesses everywhere. Continuing under the old model would eventually require large tuition increases for everyone, and in today’s economy, that’s neither realistic nor fair.

Instead, our goal is to keep base tuition as accessible as possible while offering additional, optional programs for families who want more support at certain stages of their training.

This approach allows us to:

- Keep regular training affordable

- Avoid large across-the-board tuition increases

- Offer focused opportunities when students need them

- Ensure instructors and staff are properly supported

Most importantly, it gives families flexibility. Nothing beyond regular tuition is required, and for the majority of students, day-to-day training will remain unchanged — same classes, same instructors, same standards.

Starting immediately, we will be expanding and formalizing additional programs designed to add value at key moments in a student’s journey. These programs will always be optional, commitment-free, and available only when they are useful.

For example, if a student feels unmotivated, joining a Tournament or Demo Team for a period of time can reignite excitement and purpose. If competition is no longer the right fit, that program can be dropped and focus can return to belt progression. Karate only benefits students when they stay engaged and training consistently, and our responsibility is to give families more tools to support that — without forcing unnecessary commitments.

Efficiencies and Enhancements You Will See Starting Soon

Fully Structured Black Belt Prep

Black Belt Prep is now available as an optional add-on for all Brown Belts and students preparing to advance in rank. This program provides focused preparation, expanded training access, and clear feedback during critical stages of progression.

Workshops & Seminars

We will be introducing additional workshops and seminars throughout the year. These will include both curriculum-based training and non-curriculum experiences designed to broaden students’ understanding, exposure, and engagement with martial arts.

Expanded Spirit Wear Options

Pride and belonging are powerful motivators. We are expanding our spirit wear offerings to include new styles, logos, and items, giving students more ways to represent their dojo and take pride in their training.

Class Schedule Adjustments

As we continue to grow and adapt, it may be necessary to temporarily compress certain classes. Our current class flow can make it challenging to consistently match instructor numbers to class capacity, and these adjustments allow us to run more efficiently. Please be assured: our goal is never to take opportunities away. As soon as class sizes approach an uncomfortable level, we will move quickly to expand offerings again. This approach allows us to do more with less, while maintaining the quality of instruction you expect.

The Guardian Program

One of the best ways to reduce costs for your family while taking full advantage of our expanding programs is through enrollment in our Guardian Program.

The Guardian Program is a voluntary family pledge starting at just $10 per month. Guardian families receive access to discounts, special opportunities, and occasional freebies across our programs and events. This program helps support our instructors, facilities, and program development — while giving back directly to the families who choose to participate.

Guardian Program registration will be added to our website shortly. In the meantime, families can register directly with one of our staff members. Please see the posters in the dojo for full details, or speak with us at the front desk if you have any questions.

We hope you are as excited as we are about the changes coming in 2026. We are working hard to bring you more martial arts excellence, more in-depth training, and greater exposure to new ideas — all while maintaining the culture, standards, and community that make our dojo what it is.

Thank you,

The team at NKS Markham