Classroom Etiquette

Dancers show respect for themselves by:

Being on time for class.

Being dressed properly for class. Wearing the assigned color leotard, without underwear under leotards, without jewelry other than small earrings, and with shoe strings tied in a knot and tucked in.

Having hair up and secure off of the face and neck.

Dancers show respect for others by:

Keeping their hands to themselves during class.

Waiting quietly for others to have a turn and for instructions from the teacher.

Waiting until the music is finished before quietly entering the classroom if they are late to class.

Only talking with one another before and after class, or if the teacher gives permission.

Dancers show respect for their teacher and the art form they are learning by:

Being properly dressed and ready for class on time. Dancers should line up outside their studio door and wait until the teacher invites them in.

Listening when the teacher speaks.

Always standing in a “proper dance stance” while listening to the teacher give combinations or corrections.

Being prepared for their turn.

Always asking before leaving the room for any reason and upon returning enter quietly and go around the back of the room, never through the dancers who are dancing.

Always finishing every exercise, never walking off noisily or showing anger or aggravation.

Dancers show respect for the studio by:

Leaving gum outside, keeping food or drinks at the back table only.

Never hanging or leaning on the barres.

Never running or doing gymnastics in the studio or lobby.

Putting trash in its proper place.

Putting away books, magazines, and toys when finished with them.

Always keeping belongings zipped inside their dance bag.

Parents/guardians show respect for the dance class, teacher, and studio by:

Waiting in the waiting areas or watching quietly through the blinds; doors are kept closed and blinds are kept slightly turned to preserve the focus of the classroom environment.

Making every effort to attend viewing day.

Standing away from the viewing window if it becomes obvious that students are being distracted. Not letting younger children stand and hit the viewing window.

Making sure their child has used the restroom before entering class.

Having students ready for class before entering the classroom. Arrive 5-10 minutes before class begins to assure student is dressed and ready for class on time.

Picking students up promptly after class.

Letting the office know in advance, if possible, if a student will be absent.

Making arrangements with the office to make up missed classes.

Clearly marking all of a student’s items with the child’s name and leaving toys and valuables at home.

Teaching children to sit quietly and read while waiting. The waiting area is also a homework area for many dancers.

Teaching children to never run or scream in the studio, waiting areas, or parking lot.

Teachers show respect for their students by:

Beginning and ending class on time.

Learning students’ names quickly and addressing students by name.

Teaching with encouragement.

Being well prepared for their classes.

Sharing their passion for dance with every student.

Keeping lessons fresh with new ideas and energy.