Chapter 182 is fortunate to have numerous instructors in a variety of ikebana schools. Some instructors are actively teaching while others share their expertise in chapter demonstrations and workshops. Lessons via these instructors are completely independent of the chapter membership fees but are necessary to obtain proficiency levels in their particular schools and to further develop a practitioners personal expertise. Every school's requirements are different. For example, in the Sogetsu school, a student must complete five books of lessons in order to become an instructor. The first four books each require completion of a minimum of 25 lessons. The fifth book is 30 lessons. Regardless, even if an ikebana practitioner is not pursuing advanced certification, the lessons are invaluable to develop necessary skills, techniques and aesthetic appreciation.