Restore Foothill College Karate Program!

We are writing to appeal Foothill College%u2019s decision to canceling the karate class from the spring 2009 schedule of classes.  As you are aware, Ms. Sue Gatlin, Dean of Physical Education, has inexplicably removed the Tuesday/Thursday evening karate class with no apparent reason.   We have benefited from the karate class and many of us have been part of the Foothill karate program for more than fifteen years.  We have an utmost respect for our amazing qualified instructor, Sensei Irv Ploke, an experienced high ranking 5th degree black belt in Shotokan karate, leading our classes.

To cancel a long established class with excellent attendance is incomprehensible.  Foothill College is doing a great disservice to our community and it is unfairly taking away an irreplaceable educational opportunity from students to learn about martial arts.  Shotokan karate has positively impacted our lives in so many ways.  It is a form of martial art that teaches all to refrain from acts of violence and use for self defense purposes only.  Shotokan karate instills the important values of courtesy, respect, building great character and perseverance.  Applying the teachings from Shotokan karate has directly positively changed our lives.  Not having the opportunity to practice karate has taken away our ability to keep a balanced life style, maintain our health and reduce stress from work and family.

As tax payers who continue to supporting funding of great programs at community colleges, we ask that you meet the needs of the community and restore the karate class for summer 2009 and beyond.  De Anza College, College of San Mateo, Canada College and West Valley College all offer karate classes in their physical education curriculum.  Your commitment to restoring the Foothill karate program is a vital responsibility of a publicly funded educational institution.

Your attention and response is much appreciated.