Our school (and all other ATA facilities) use a rank system to develop the skills, discipline, and self-control which are necessary for proper Taekwondo techniques. The number nine is the highest single digit; in some asian cultures, nine represents the highest attainable goal of any measurable endeavor.  ATA has nine ranks (or Grades) of color belts and nine degrees of Black Belts. The color ranks are divided into two levels: recommended or decided.

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Ninth Grade - White Belt Songahm One
"Pure and without the knowledge of Songahm Taekwondo. As with the Pine Tree, the seed must now be planted and nourished to develop strong roots." The student has no knowledge of Songahm Taekwondo and begins with a clean (pure) slate.
Eight Grade - Orange Belt Songahm Two
"The sun is beginning to rise. As with the morning's dawn, only the beauty of the sunrise is seen rather than the immense power." The beginner student sees the beauty of the art of Taekwondo but has not yet experienced the power in the technique.
Seventh Grade -Yellow Belt Songahm Three
"The seed is beginning to see the sunlight." The student begins to understand the basics of Taekwondo.
Camo thru Blue  Belts - Brown thru 1st