PDA Policies and Waivers


May 18, 2024 08:02 AM



Pirouettes Dance Academy Policy

Welcome to Pirouettes Dance Academy

Thank you for contributing to the success of Pirouettes Dance Academy. Now that things are up and running we feel there are a few things we should address. Pirouettes Dance Academy tries to promote a Christian environment.

FOR EVERYONE _______Initial
No one other than students and fitness clients are permitted in the studio portion of the building. This is for your child’s safety from anyone just walking in off of the street with intentions of doing harm. This will also be beneficial to the education and the full attention to each instructor.
Our academy is a Christian environment and will be using Christian music for class. However not all music will be the Christian genre due to some styles of dance we will also use bluegrass, instrumentals and clean music (We will not use suggestive or provocative music and will not tolerate it being played anywhere in the academy or events). Class testimony and prayer will be given at the end of every class. Pirouettes Dance Academy is and will always be a positive environment. Mrs. Haylee absolutely does NOT tolerate negative behavior, jealousy, bullying, drama, name calling, being disrespectful towards one another, and lying!
When we are attending anything associated with Pirouettes Dance Academy we are representing the academy. We ask that you conduct yourself in a respectable manner. Please refrain from drinking alcohol and using language that would not be appropriate around children.
When attending events everyone (parents and children) is expected to remain together at all times.

FOR OUR STUDENTS _______Initial
Our student’s success and progress depends on the student, teacher and parents dedication. Working together, practicing at home and attending class will determine what kind of dancer you will be. All of the elements needed to become a successful dancer will be available at Pirouettes Dance Academy. A successful recital is simply determined by the attendance, application and diligence to your team throughout the season. Sickness and injuries are expected to arise occasionally but making the extra effort to attend if you are hurt to just watch will keep you up to date with the choreography. However, class make ups will be available when necessary and it is up to you to attend.
As a student you are expected to be fully dressed, on time and stretched for every class. Come to each class without personal distractions (absolutely no cell phones in any classrooms). If your parents have an emergency they can call the Office (828-488-0664). Class time is your time to focus on yourself, leave your concerns and worries at the door (leave all drama/boyfriends at the door). Be ready to learn and love what you do! Be able to take constructive criticism from your instructors. Remain quiet and keep our dance floors a positive environment. We are a team in the spotlight together. You have a responsibility to your team to practice timing, choreography, pushups, sit-ups and stretching at home. Solos are given as an opportunity to shine as an individual AND IT IS A PRIVILEGE GIVEN AND MAY BE TAKEN AWAY ONLY BY MRS. HAYLEE. Good attendance will also be considered when deciding who receives a solo. Unfortunately, bad behavior could occur. Punishments will consist in solos being taken away for disrespect or other bad behavior.
Staff members, instructors and owners will not be disrespected by students or parents. Listen to each correction given, whether it’s directed at you or another dancer. A correction is an honor, it shows how much a teacher cares about your progress as a dancer. Nothing can stop you if you apply yourself and appreciate your teacher’s knowledge and experience. In the case a parent or student disrespects a teacher you will receive a verbal warning the first time. The second time this is done there will be consequences following your actions. The third time this happens you may be asked to leave and you could be banned from the property. This is something we do not take lightly. If you have a problem with a staff member or other student you may schedule a meeting with Mrs. Haylee and that person. You are not to confront another parent or student any other way.

FOR PIROUETTES COMPANY, JUNIOR & MINI COMPANY TEAM MEMBERS
This is a class selected once a year by auditions only and it is a privilege to be part of this group. This class will travel to events and compete in competitions. In our dance routines we will be performing routines and wearing costumes that are respectable, but, we cannot be responsible for what other dance academies are wearing or performing. We ask that you be aware of this and if this is something that you may not agree with, please do not try out for these teams as your full cooperation and attendance is expected at all fundraisers, events and competitions. * If a team member does not fulfill their current year in all competitions they may be placed on a 1 year probation period from being on a competing team. The competitive “team” relies on all members to attend each competition. Attendance for this class is crucial and especially prior to competitions. The only absences that are excused will be family emergencies, sickness or a planned vacation. In result of 3 unexcused absences you may be dropped as a team member.
Pirouettes Dance Academy is a clean, drug and alcohol free Dance Ministry. We dance in churches and also try to use our dance academy as a small ministry to plant seeds of faith throughout the community. We require our students to be nice and represent Pirouettes Dance Academy respectfully at all times at all events related to Pirouettes Dance Academy. We also require parents to be on time, fully prepared and supervise their child/children. Anyone that is at a Pirouettes Dance Academy related event will not consume any alcoholic beverages during/after events or social gatherings. Some people may not support or feel comfortable with other people drinking around their children. Dance events are for our dancers and will not be an excuse for adults to misrepresent what our Dance Academy is all about. Unfortunately anyone that has posted pictures or misrepresented Pirouettes Dance Academy (especially wearing our dance attire) will result in the termination of their child from the team.
Mrs. Haylee does check report cards. If you are failing you will do your work during class. If you continue to fail you will not attend competitions!
In the result of withdrawing from the class or being dropped from the class, all equipment and dance attire must be returned immediately if it is owned by Pirouettes. If you fail to return any property of the dance academy you may be billed for compensation. No refunds can be given for any dance competitions already paid for. _______Initial

FOR THE PARENTS _______Initial
We believe your support and positive reflection on the entire class and teachers will reflect on your child’s success as a dancer. Your commitment will make a great difference in your child’s dance education.
Here at Pirouettes Dance Academy we appreciate everyone and respect everyone. While you’re on this property your participation in keeping this Academy a positive, professional and supportive atmosphere is expected. As a parent or guardian you will be an example in how one should act in a professional setting. It is your responsibility to make sure you and your child have all equipment ordered and tuition paid on time. Costumes need to be paid for on time and if costumes and uniforms are delayed due to back order, we cannot help this problem. You will be informed through email when your items have arrived. All receipts should be kept in case of any kind of miscommunication. However, if you do not have your receipt and our system shows a past due balance it is not our responsibility to fix your problem. In this kind of occurrence a disrespectful confrontation to our staff will not be tolerated. The office manager has the authority to have you removed from the property if you disrespect or cause a scene. Mrs. Haylee cannot take time away from the class to tend to individual needs. If you have questions or concerns contact the office manager (Mrs. Paula) to schedule an appointment.
Some students, ages 9 and up may ride bus to studio. Make sure you let the studio know this ahead of time. Siblings of dancers are NOT permitted to ride the bus and stay in the office. We are not liable for your child if they do not get off the bus nor are we going to get them from the bus. Your children need to be of a responsible age to get themselves to and from the building without supervision. We DO NOT provide childcare/daycare services. You are expected to drop off and pick up your child within the appropriate time frame. If you are running late please call the office and let us know. Do not call or text Mrs. Haylee’s phone. If this becomes a reoccurring issue you will be charged a fee of $1 per minute up to 30 minutes then $50 per hour after that.
Parents and teachers may look at a child’s progress from different perspectives. However we should share the common goal of positive training both physically and mentally. Respect among teachers and a student’s parent provides the children with the ultimate care and education.
Not all students will progress at the same rate, even if they experience the exact same training. It is important to encourage children to focus on themselves, give there all and be satisfied with their own accomplishments. Making negative comparisons distracts children from focusing on their own dancing experience. In addition, speaking negatively about your child’s teacher/fellow students can result in children imitating this behavior with others.
Parents are welcome to sit and observe their child from the lobby television. In the result of technical difficulty this is not always guaranteed. Also, if you have other children with you please supervise them at all times and please clean up your area before you leave.
REMINDERS FOR PARENTS _______Initial
-Tuition is due at the 1st day of every month
-A late fee of $10.00 is applied 15 days after the due date. (On the 15th ) If left unpaid another fee of $10.00 is charged every 7 days. If tuition is one month behind the student will be put on probation from class until full amount is paid. If not paid by the 15th of the next month your child will be withdrawn from classes. Payment is still due for services rendered.
-It’s your responsibility to keep all receipts for tuition or dance attire and be able to provide them for any kind of editing on a past due balance.
-Recital Costume monies are due December 1st.
-If you choose to pay your tuition for the full year a 10% discount is given. This is nonrefundable.
-NO REFUNDS are given for costumes, dance attire, shoes or tuition for classes missed.
(a makeup day will be offered if we have to cancel class)
-Make sure you notify teachers for any kind of absence. Make up days are only given if WE have to cancel a class.
-Encourage practice at home.
-Students should do push ups and sit-ups at home daily especially Acro students
-Check EMAILS, websites and Facebook for updates
www.Pirouettes-Dance-Academy.com
-Please go over the policy with your children and promote the importance of following all rules within.

CLASS PLACEMENT _______Initial
We take a lot of time to observe dancers skill, maturity, technique and strength and their understanding of class curriculum. A general rule of thumb for advancement in a class is 3-4 years. Keep in mind that each student progresses at a different rate based on their dance experience, CLASS ATTENDANCE and whether or not they PRACTICE at home. Technique can be taught but strength is extremely crucial in dance and requires you to maintain a daily routine of pushups and sit-ups at home. It isn’t fair for current students to slow down class pace for a new student that is not prepared. We are concerned about every child’s care, confidence and education. We want every student to come through the studio doors ready to be challenged and eager to learn. When parents and dancers understand that advancing too early will result in struggle and the importance of being in the appropriate class will result in a more focused, stronger dancer. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being placed in the same level from season to season and will only insure that they are fully prepared for the next level. A graduation to a new level is a time to be proud of because it will be an earned accomplishment for everyone.

KEEPING UP TO SPEED _______Initial
We try to make your dance experience at Pirouettes Dance Academy organized and fun. Keeping you informed is one of our primary goals. Please take the time to read all emails, white board posts and handouts that may be sent home. Please update any contact information as they change. We will be recognizing a student each month for the most hardworking, most improved and most inspirational. This will be announced on our Facebook page every month. Please see our SOCIAL MEDIA USE POLICY before commenting.



CLASS ETIQUETTE _______Initial
Be respectful and bring a good attitude to every class. We expect all students to be observant and respectful to teachers, staff and fellow class members. We expect all students to work together efficiently as a group. Remain quiet throughout class and DON’T ASSUME AUTHORITY OVER FELLOW CLASSMATES. Leave corrections to authorized instructors and please abide by the following rules.

No food or drinks during class (only water). Eat in break room only and clean up your mess.
No cell phones or ipods. (place on mute while storing)
No profanity.
Be motivating and encouraging to other students.
No talking loudly. (raise your hand for questions)
Hair is to be in a bun or french braid for Acro class.
Have a clean uniform.
Do not touch mirrors or windows.
Pick up after yourself . (nothing left on the floor)
No gum in class.
Hands to yourself . (unless we are doing stunts)
In the case that a teacher has to step out you are to remain quiet, do not talk or disrespect one another.
Do not talk about one another or start drama (THIS IS NOT ‘DANCE MOMS’!)
BE NICE TO ONE ANOTHER!!

LOST AND FOUND _______Initial
We recommend marking all dancewear, shoes and personal items with your name. We will have a lost and found box in waiting area. However we will not be responsible for any items you bring to class.

NO SOLICITATION _______Initial
We ask you to please respect Pirouettes Dance Academy for what we are providing for our community by no student or parent taking classes at Pirouettes Dance Academy to solicit/recruit or attempt to solicit/recruit Pirouettes Dance Academy students and or parents/other mentors for additional dance instruction.
SOLICITATION IS UNETHICAL AND UNPROFESSIONAL AND WILL NOT BE TOLERATED.

STUDENT AND PARENT USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA _______Initial
-Use of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media outlets is commonplace. This policy is intended to provide parents and students guidelines for the use of social media that may/could reflect on Pirouettes Dance Academy. Please use discretion when posting comments, pictures or anything else on these sites.
-All students at Pirouettes Dance Academy that have any social media accounts should be cautious of the content that they display on their account. Each student represents our team and you may be dropped if you have any inappropriate content on your accounts.
-Never post any negative comments about Pirouettes Dance Academy, our teachers, our performances or any events attended.
-Never post anything that could compromise the self-esteem of students who attend Pirouettes Dance Academy
-If you post videos of class or rehearsals and don’t post any choreography in it’s entity.
-Please check with office as to who should not be posted.

The improper use of social media according to this policy will result in a request to remove the content and if not done within a timely manner or if this continues to be a problem, it may result in dismissal of the student.



END OF YEAR SHOW _______Initial
There will be a rehearsal and recital at the end of the year. The date, location and time for both of these will be determined at a later date after which parents will be notified. This is a very important time for our students who are eager to share what they have learned with family and friends. Once you are given arrival times you are expected to be on time, dressed and ready to go. You will get further instructions closer to the show date.
If a student wants to do a solo for recital Mrs. Haylee will choose who will be allowed to.
This will be determined on how well the student performs in class and if they are ready for such dedication and hard work. Mrs. Haylee will choreograph the song for the solo and you will get a time slot for instruction from Mrs. Haylee. This “one on one” time will be charged a fee.

PICTURE DAY _______Initial
This date is to be determined. Parents will receive an email stating the time they are to arrive on picture day. It has worked out best to have pictures on the student’s class day. You will get instruction on how the teacher wants their hair.


CODE OF CONDUCT _______Initial
Students and parents will act in an appropriate manner while at any performance affiliated with Pirouettes Dance Academy (Dance team; while at competitions you will treat your competitor how you wish to be treated and will not laugh at, make fun of, or start trouble with any other competitor.)
Students and Parents of Pirouettes Dance Academy will not approach a teacher or student during their class time. If students/parents come into a classroom during class or outside of the classroom to approach a teacher or student with intent to start a fight you will be asked to leave immediately. Any negative, inappropriate or slanderous remarks used on social media towards Pirouettes Dance Academy by students, parents or teachers will result in either the students, parents or teachers permanent dismissal.


PLEASE READ, SIGN AND RETURN THIS PAGE
By signing below, I acknowledge I have received and read THE ABOVE POLICIES of Pirouettes Dance Academy and understand the policies and procedures of Pirouettes Dance Academy. I understand and adhere to all the rules and regulations asked of myself and of my child.


PARENT SIGNATURE DATE



STUDENT SIGNATURE DATE



WITNESS SIGNATURE DATE


Waiver and Release of Liability

In consideration to the Pirouettes Dance Academy registering me for this and subsequent years, the undersigned acknowledges and agrees that:

The risk of injury from this activity, although nominal, is present and while training and instruction may reduce this risk, the risk to injury does exist: and

I knowingly and freely assume all such risks, both known and unknown and assume full responsibility for my participation and/or my child(ren): and

I, for myself and/or my child(ren) and behalf of my heirs, assigns, personal representatives and next of kin, hereby release and hold harmless Pirouettes Dance Academy its agents or employees, and if applicable, owners, lessors of the premises used to conduct the dance activities (“releases”) with respect to any and all injury, disability, death, or loss to person or property.

I have read this release of liability and assumption of risk agreement and have accepted the terms.


Parent/Guardian

Witness

Date