My name is Kaury Hooper. I was born in Mesa, Arizona. I lived there for two years until my mom, dad and two brothers, Kaulin and Kauner, moved here to Beachwood Ohio. I do not remember much about Arizona so I will tell you about my life here in Ohio. I went to day care until I started school. In first grade I met my favorite teacher, Miss Bracale. Even though I am now in fifth grade, I still stay in touch with her. I was placed in an advanced math class and I still am today.
In second grade, I won a contest in math called the Continental Math League. I was also put in an advanced Language Arts class. In third grade I placed 1st in a chess tournament and 2nd place in the Continental Math League. When I was in fourth grade, I tested into the Horizons program which I remain in today. I also placed third in a math competition called Advanced Math Students that is held every year. In fifth grade my Horizons class won a competition called Knowledge Masters Open. We placed first in state and 8th worldwide. I play viola in my school orchestra and take private lessons. Besides studying karate, I also play soccer and baseball.

A black belt means a lot of hard work. It also means that I “thank” my brother Kauner because he was the one that got me interested in karate in the first place. It means that I cannot just give up on karate. I have to keep learning, working and teaching. I want to help people when help is needed. It is not a hobby but a life of work.

Karate is a demanding combination of discipline, conditioning and practice. It goes with me as I tackle my everyday life in school, sports and even chores at home. Even though I may become a black belt eventually, I will not stop studying karate because it has become too much of a part of me.