While blackboards, erasers and teachers seated behind desks correcting papers can be some of the first things that come to mind when thinking about school, a good education can also be had by attending a karate class where lessons in discipline and respect for others come before chops and kicks.

School is definitely in session when it comes to Tiger Spirit Martial Arts, a karate school for children and adults located on Main Street in Raymond.

Operated by Sensei Sal Costanza, 63, of Raymond, the school teaches a traditional Okinawan form of karate known as Shotokan, which traces its roots back 800-900 years ago when the Okinawan population was banned from having weapons by the ruling Japanese.

Costanza got into karate in 1997 in order to pursue his lifelong ambition of studying martial arts and earned his black belt in 2002. A natural teacher, Costanza wanted to start a side career as a karate instructor. Dedicated to instilling character values in his students, Costanza tailors his karate classes to more than the mere mechanics of karate.

“The classes are always about respect, balance and listening. I use the Lil’ Dragon curriculum which teaches life and safety skills to children under 10. It’s important at their age that they’re constantly reminded of these values,” he said.

A few of the values instilled include alcohol and drug awareness, first aid, what to do if lost in a store and respect for teachers and authority.

“They love it,” Costanza said of the children who attend the classes, held Saturday mornings year-round. “It teaches them the avoidance of problems, which is important. It also gives them a focus.”

To keep the kids interested, the Lil’ Dragon curriculum also offers badges and belts which offers motivation and encouragement. But, the merit earned along the way is just a side benefit for the class. The real goal is for students to learn discipline by way of karate.

“What I want them to understand is that they are not in competition with each other, but themselves. Of course, someone’s going to be a winner, but while you’re here, it’s a learning situation,” he said.