Boae Shin, master of Martial Arts USA, right, signs an Adopt-a-School partnership agreement alongside Copeland Elementary School Principal Stefanie Berger, left, to certify Martial Arts USA’s new partnership with Copeland on April 13.

April 15, 2026—Copeland Elementary School Principal Stefanie Berger and Boae Shin, master of Martial Arts USA, first crossed paths 18 years ago when Shin began training Berger’s son in martial arts.

On April 13, they were reunited at a signing ceremony as Martial Arts USA officially adopted Copeland as part of CFISD’s Adopt-a-School program.

“Adopting Copeland Elementary is especially meaningful to me because of my long-standing relationship with Ms. Berger,” Shin said. “Over the years, we have built a strong connection based on shared values of student growth, character development and community. This official partnership feels like a very natural and meaningful next step.”

Berger has already seen the impact Shin had on her son, training him to eventually earn his black belt. Now, she’s excited to see how Shin will pour into her staff and students at Copeland.

“It’s amazing just because of the connection I have with Master Shin personally, and she’s already been so present on our campus,” Berger said. “Now, she’s made it official and officially adopted us, and we’re just looking forward to that continued support and partnership.”

Copeland Elementary School staff celebrates Martial Arts USA’s adoption of Copeland through CFISD’s Adopt-a-School Program.

Copeland becomes the fifth CFISD school that Marital Arts USA has adopted. Shin believes the Adopt-a-School program, which allows local business and organizations to officially partner with schools and pour into them with their time, energy and resources, aligns perfectly with the vision of Martial Arts USA.

“Our mission goes beyond martial arts. We are committed to helping students build confidence, discipline and strong character,” Shin said. “Through these partnerships, we hope to give back to the community and make a positive impact in students’ lives.”

It’s generosity that means the world to Berger and her entire Copeland staff.

“It just really validates to teachers the importance of public education, which is crucial, especially the time we are in right now,” Berger said.

For more information on the Adopt-a-School program, contact Dawn Tryon, director of community engagement, at 281-894-3950 or dawn.tryon@cfisd.net.

Boae Shin, master of Martial Arts USA, left, presents Copeland Elementary School Principal Stefanie Berger, middle, with a check for snacks for her staff alongside CFISD’s Director of Community Engagement Dawn Tryon, right, as part of CFISD’s Adopt-a-School program.