Call Now
Website
Call
Business Details
Empowering Youth Through Martial Arts in Houston
At Kickstart Kids, we believe in shaping the future by teaching character through martial arts. Our mission is to empower adolescents during their critical middle and high school years by instilling core values such as discipline, responsibility, kindness, respect, courage, dedication, honesty, and loyalty. Since our inception, we have impacted over 120,000 students across 58 public schools in Texas, providing life-changing martial arts instruction during the school day.

Our unique Values Curriculum fosters community, achievement, and healthy lifestyles, equipping students to navigate life's challenges with confidence. Endorsed by educators, law enforcement, and families, our program has proven to reduce crime, promote empathy, and create a more inclusive society. We are committed to expanding access to our transformative program, ensuring every student can develop the character needed to succeed in life.
Services
Martial Arts Instruction Values Curriculum School Programs Character Development Community Outreach Tournament Training Black Belt Certification Parent Workshops Volunteer Opportunities Event Sponsorships
Highlights and features
  • We offer a unique Values Curriculum focusing on discipline, respect, and character development.
  • Our program has impacted over 120,000 students since inception.
  • We operate in 58 public schools across Texas with proven community impact.
  • Endorsed by law enforcement for crime prevention effectiveness.
  • Our instructors deliver school-day martial arts instruction during critical adolescent years.
What people say
Empowered to dream more Prevented more crime Life saver for families Teaches character skills Students shine brightly
Services
Martial Arts Instruction
Our school-day martial arts programs teach traditional karate techniques while emphasizing character development. Students learn physical skills through structured lessons that reinforce core values like discipline and respect. The program specifically targets adolescents during their formative middle and high school years.
Values Curriculum
This unique curriculum integrates eight character values into every martial arts lesson. Students develop responsibility, kindness, and integrity through practical applications. The program's framework connects physical training with ethical decision-making to shape well-rounded individuals during critical developmental stages.
Community Outreach
We partner with public schools to deliver accessible martial arts education. Our outreach creates safer communities by empowering at-risk youth. The program's impact extends beyond participants, fostering more respectful and inclusive school environments through character-driven interactions.
Tournament Training
Students receive specialized training for competitive martial arts events. Our instructors prepare participants for regional and state-level tournaments. This advanced training builds confidence, sportsmanship, and technical proficiency while maintaining focus on character development principles.
Black Belt Certification
Our structured belt system tracks student progress from white belt to black belt. Each rank requires mastery of technical skills and demonstration of character values. The certification process emphasizes personal growth, perseverance, and leadership development through martial arts training.
People
Greg Abbott
Texas Governor
Longtime supporter of youth development programs. Advocates for character education through martial arts. Recognizes Kickstart Kids' impact on Texas students and communities.
Dr. Charles E. Dupre
Former Fort Bend Superintendent
Education leader who implemented Kickstart Kids program in school districts. Witnessed firsthand the positive effects on student behavior and academic performance through character development.
Laura Norman
Parent
Mother of four black belt recipients. Credits program with providing family stability during challenging adolescent years. Active advocate for school-day martial arts instruction benefits.
Bill E Waybourn
Tarrant County Sheriff
Law enforcement professional with 35-year career. Observes crime prevention impact of martial arts training. Supports program expansion for community safety benefits through youth empowerment.
Aaryn Gundlach
Alumnus
Program graduate who transformed personal success into community service. Embodies values curriculum principles through post-program mentorship activities. Represents program's lasting positive influence on participants' lives.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We focus on middle school and high school students during their critical developmental years.
How do you integrate martial arts with education?
Our Values Curriculum combines karate techniques with character lessons taught during school hours.
Are programs available outside Texas?
Currently we operate in 58 Texas public schools, with plans to expand our proven model regionally.
How can families get involved?
Parents can volunteer, attend events, or support our mission through donations and sponsorships.
What makes your program unique?
Our school-day delivery model combines martial arts with character development proven to reduce crime.
Do you offer competitive opportunities?
Yes, we host annual tournaments and state championship events for student advancement.
Videos