I do believe hockey power skating courses require you to wear full gear.
When I was young, I went to
www.rpmhockey.com and we had to wear full gear.
I agree with what Raybot said. Learn to skate without the stick so you don't pick up any bad habbits. I see too many players who lean on the sticks like a third leg when they skate or drag their skates when they take strides.
But honestly, powerskating courses don't teach you things you can't learn by asking some of the guys here on RS. It's practice that will make you better.