Instructors

 Mr. Scott Palermo, 

Owner of Self-Defense Academy

I started my martial arts studies in 1999. I earned my 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree Black Belts under Mr. Gary Ronemus. I was an instructor with Mr. Ronemus until his retirement. Mr. Ronemus retired as a 9th degree Kenpo Black Belt. I am currently a 5th degree Black Belt  and have been an instructor for many years teaching all ages from pre-school through adult. 

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Certifications: PA Child Abuse History Clearance, PA State Police Criminal Record Check, PA Mandated Reporter Training, FBI Fingerprinted and Darkness to Light: Stewards of Children Training. 

Community Education Partner of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

In Memory of our Instructor and our Friend.

Mr. Lego is a 4th Degree Kenpo Black Belt. He had originally started his studies in Baltimore under Mr. Joe Palanzo. After taking time off from his studies, Mr. Lego resumed his Kenpo education under Mr. Gary Ronemus and earned his black belt in October of 2005. Mr. Lego and Mr. Scott were promoted together from 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree. Mr. Lego is a regular instructor who brings a great deal of knowledge to the studio. 

Certifications: PA Child Abuse History Clearance

Mr. "V" is a second degree black belt. He started his Kenpo journey with Mr. Ronemus. Life redirected his path and Mr. V served our Country in the United Stated Army. He is a Gulf War Veteran who served in the Middle East inside a tank.

After getting married and starting a family, Mr. Vaden resumed his Kenpo studies and earned his black belt under Mr. Larry Paul.

We are thrilled that Mr. V is now part of the Self-Defense Academy Family!

Certifications: PA Child Abuse History Clearance, PA State Police Criminal Record Check, PA Mandated Reporter Training

Steven is a first degree black belt in American Kenpo Karate. He is a regular instructor in both the kids' and the adult classes.

Steven has a Bachelor Degree in Video Game Design and has been working in the industry for 7 years. He is the owner and lead designer in his own gaming company. Stellar Knights.

Certifications: PA Child Abuse History Clearance

My name is Nick Steinke. I am currently a first degree degree black. He has been studying Kenpo for about nine years now. 

I am enrolled in North American Trade Schools in Maryland to learn the building and construction trades.