Privacy Policy

Effective Date: December 17, 2025

This Privacy Policy describes how The Okinawan Karate Dojo (“we,” “us,” or “our”) collects, uses, discloses, and protects personal information from students, parents/guardians, prospective members, website visitors, and event participants. We are located in Howard County, Maryland.

1. Information We Collect

We may collect the following types of information:

a. Personal Information

  • Student and parent/guardian names
  • Email addresses, phone numbers, and mailing addresses
  • Date of birth and age (for class placement and eligibility)
  • Emergency contact information
  • Photos and videos taken during classes, events, or tournaments (with consent)

b. Account & Enrollment Information

  • Class registrations and attendance
  • Membership status
  • Waivers, agreements, and consent forms

c. Payment Information

  • Billing name and contact details
  • Payment status and transaction history

Note: We do not store full credit or debit card numbers. Payments are processed through secure third‑party payment processors.

d. Communications

  • Emails, text messages (SMS), and phone communications
  • Messages sent through our website, registration system, or texting platform

e. Website & Technology Data

  • IP address, browser type, and device information
  • Pages visited and interaction data via cookies or similar technologies

2. How We Use Information

We use collected information to:

  • Register students and manage memberships
  • Communicate about classes, schedule changes, events, and promotions
  • Process payments and maintain financial records
  • Ensure student safety and respond to emergencies
  • Improve our programs, services, and website
  • Comply with legal and regulatory requirements

3. Text Messaging & Email Communications (Website, Registration, & SMS)

If you provide a mobile number or email address through our website, registration forms, tournament registration, or in person, you may receive:

  • Class reminders and schedule updates
  • Event, tournament, and testing information
  • Billing or membership-related notices
  • Important dojo announcements

We comply with applicable messaging laws, including A2P 10DLC requirements.

  • SMS Opt-In: By providing your mobile number, you consent to receive text messages related to our programs and events.
  • SMS Opt-Out: Message and data rates may apply. You may opt out at any time by replying STOP.
  • Help: Reply HELP or contact us directly for assistance.

You may opt out of marketing emails at any time using the unsubscribe link provided.

4. Sharing of Information

We do not sell personal information. We may share information only:

  • With trusted service providers (e.g., payment processors, registration platforms, texting services) who assist in operating our business
  • When required by law, court order, or legal process
  • To protect the safety, rights, or property of our students, families, staff, or the public

5. Children’s Privacy

Our programs serve children under 18. We collect personal information about minors only with parental or guardian consent and use it solely for legitimate educational, safety, and administrative purposes.

Parents or guardians may review, update, or request deletion of their child’s information by contacting us.

6. Photos & Media (Classes, Events, & Tournaments)

We may take photos or videos during classes, special events, testing, or tournaments for instructional, promotional, or archival purposes.

  • Media of minors is used only with parent or guardian consent where required.
  • Names will not be publicly associated with photos without additional consent.
  • Consent may be withdrawn at any time by notifying us in writing, which will apply to future use.

7. Data Security

We take reasonable administrative, technical, and physical measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, loss, misuse, or disclosure.

8. Data Retention

We retain personal information only as long as necessary for business, legal, and safety purposes, or as required by applicable law.

9. Your Rights (Maryland Residents)

Maryland residents may have the right to:

  • Request access to personal information we maintain
  • Request corrections or updates to inaccurate information
  • Request deletion of personal information, subject to legal, safety, and recordkeeping obligations
  • Opt out of non-essential communications

Requests may be submitted using the contact information below. We will respond within a reasonable timeframe in accordance with applicable law.

10. Third‑Party Links

Our website may contain links to third‑party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those sites.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. The effective date will be updated when changes are made. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of the updated policy.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact:

The Okinawan Karate Dojo
Address:
4900 Waterloo Rd, Ellicott City, MD 21043
624 Frederick Rd, Catonsville, MD 21228
Phone: (443) 574-8999
Email: info@OKDkarate.com