Enrollment & Policies | Aplomb Ballet Artistry

Policies

Level Placement & Evaluation

Placement in levels at Aplomb Ballet Artistry is based on a combination of age, emotional and mental readiness, and previous ballet experience. Advancement is determined by faculty evaluation rather than

age alone.

Evaluation Criteria:

Students complete a formal evaluation once per year, which assesses technical ability, artistry, focus, and overall readiness for the next level.
Students do not automatically advance each year. Remaining in the same level may be necessary to build a strong technical and artistic foundation.
Final placement and advancement decisions are made by the Artistic Director and faculty to support each student's long-term growth and ensure readiness for more advanced training.

ABA Tuition & Enrollment Policy

ABA operates as a year-round (10-month) conservatory, and our program is designed as an annual commitment to ensure long-term progress and results. Students are welcome to enroll at any time throughout the year. Upon enrollment, a credit card or voided check for ACH transfers must be provided by the responsible financial party. This stored payment method will be used for monthly tuition, annual registration (charged with tuition every September), and performance fees (charged on specified dates upon agreement to a performance contract).

The annual registration fee for Levels 1-5 is $30. For new students, this fee will be charged along with the first month's tuition. For returning students, the registration fee is charged each September.

Tuition is billed monthly at the beginning of each month and is not adjusted for student absences. A 30-day written notice is required to withdraw from the program and terminate the financial agreement. If a student withdrawals and re-registers in the same academic year, re-registration is required at a cost of $30

Students in Levels 1-5 are not eligible for tuition proration due to absences, but are encouraged to attend make-up classes.

1. Tuition Structure

Tuition is based on the average number of hours a student receives instruction weekly and charged as a flat rate, not by the number of classes in a month.
Tuition reserves your dancer's place in class; it is not prorated for absences, holidays, or short months.
Tuition is due the first Friday of each month for the full month regardless of attendance September-June

2. Payment Due Dates

Tuition is automatically charged on the 1st Friday of each month.
A late fee of $15 will be applied if payment is any invoices remain unpaid or an insufficient payment method is not rectified by the 15th of the month
Accounts more than 30 days past due may result in suspension of the student's participation until the account is brought current.

3. Payment Methods

ACH Transfer, Debit or Credit Card

4. Registration Fee

An annual registration fee of $30 per student or $50 per family is due at the time of enrollment. This fee is non-refundable

5. Refund Policy

Tuition and registration fees are non-refundable.
No credit or refund is given for missed classes due to illness, vacation, or other personal reasons. In the event of a government-mandated shutdown, classes will continue virtually and tuition will remain in effect.

6. Withdrawal Policy

To withdraw, written notice must be submitted at least 30 days prior to the next billing cycle. No refunds will be given for withdrawals mid-month.

7. Discounts

Family Discount: [e.g., 20% off each additional child].
Multi-Class Discount: hourly rate is reduced per each additional half hour of instruction Discounts apply only to tuition, not to registration, costume, or recital fees.

8. Missed Classes / Make-Ups

Students may make up missed classes within 30 days, based on availability and at the studio's discretion. Make-ups must be scheduled in advance and are not guaranteed.

9. Performance Fees

A performance fee is due upon agreement to the performance contract.
Fees cover costume cleaning and maintenance, venue rental, as well as other other production

costs.

All costumes belong to Aplomb Ballet Artistry, students do not keep or take costumes home for any reason.

Additional Costs:

Students may be required to purchase accessories (e.g., tights, shoes) or other items related to the production.

These costs will be communicated in advance.

Production Commitment Policies

Our school's productions are an important part of a dancer's training and artistic development. Participation requires dedication, consistent attendance, and respect for the rehearsal process. These policies outline the expectations for students and families to ensure that every dancer, teacher, and member of the production team can work together toward a successful performance experience.

1. Annual Commitment:

Participation in productions requires commitment to classes/enrollment in a level Students must commit to both rehearsals and performances.

2. Rehearsal Attendance:

Rehearsal schedules are posted on BAND weekly. Students and parents are responsible for reviewing schedules, asking questions, and showing up when they are scheduled.
Regular attendance at scheduled rehearsals is mandatory.
Missing more than 2 rehearsals may result in exclusion from the performance. Any conflicts with scheduled rehearsals must be communicated in advance.
Unexcused absences will result in dismissal from cast

3. Performance Dates:

All performance dates are listed at the start of the season.
Students must be available for all listed performances, including dress rehearsals.

4. Behavior & Conduct:

Professional behavior is expected at all times, both in and out of rehearsal.
Disruptive behavior or lack of commitment may result in removal from the production.

5. Drop-out Policy:

No performance fee refunds are provided if a student is dismissed from the cast for failure to uphold the policies regarding commitment and professional behavior.
No performance fee refunds are provided if a dancer is unable to perform due to illness, injury, or other personal emergency.

6. Communication:

Parents and students are encouraged to maintain open communication with the production manager regarding any questions, concerns, or scheduling conflicts.

Competition Participation Policies

Participation in ballet competitions is an extension of a dancer's artistic training. Our studio views these opportunities as both a privilege and a responsibility, requiring commitment, discipline, and the highest standard of professional etiquette.

1. Eligibility

Dancers must be actively enrolled and in good standing with the school in terms of tuition, attendance, and conduct.
Participation is by teacher recommendation and subject to director approval. Students must maintain the technical and artistic standards required for their category of entry.

2. Commitment

Ballet competitions require a significant commitment of time, energy, and focus.
Dancers are expected to attend all scheduled coaching sessions, rehearsals, and classes without exception.
Outside activities must not interfere with training or preparation.

3. Financial Responsibility

Families are responsible for all competition-related expenses, including entry fees, solo private lessons, studio usage, costumes, travel, and accompanists (if required).
A fee schedule will be provided in advance. Payments must be made on time in order for the student to remain eligible.
All competition-related fees are non-refundable.

4. Rehearsals & Training

Attendance at all rehearsals and classes is mandatory. Consistent absence or lack of preparation may result in withdrawal from the competition.
Dancers must arrive fully prepared, warmed up, and ready to work.
Choreography, coaching, and corrections must be respected and applied with diligence.

5. Professional Conduct & Etiquette

Dancers represent both themselves and the school at all times. Courtesy, humility, and respect are expected in all interactions.
Proper stage and backstage etiquette must be observed: quiet focus, attentiveness, and consideration for other participants.
Communication with competition staff, jurors, or accompanists must be handled with professionalism. Parents and dancers should never approach adjudicators directly. Behavior that reflects poorly on the dancer or the school (including rudeness, arrogance, disregard for rules) may result in immediate dismissal from the competition.

6. Appearance & Presentation

Costumes, footwear, and accessories must be maintained in pristine condition and worn as directed.
Hair and stage makeup must follow studio guidelines, emphasizing classical standards and uniformity.
Personal presentation off-stage (studio attire, grooming, posture) should also reflect professionalism.

7. Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

Parents play a vital supporting role. They are expected to ensure punctuality, preparation, and respectful conduct.
Parents should refrain from coaching their child during rehearsals or backstage. Instruction is the responsibility of faculty only.
Parents are asked to maintain professional decorum when interacting with competition staff, other schools, and families.

8. Withdrawal & Dismissal

A dancer who withdraws after committing to participation remains responsible for all incurred fees.
The director reserves the right to remove a dancer from competition if training, conduct, or preparation is deemed insufficient to uphold the school's standards.

Private Lesson Policies

Private lessons are offered to provide individualized coaching, technical refinement, and preparation for auditions, exams, or competitions. While we welcome both enrolled and outside students, priority is always given to dancers who consistently train in our regular program.

1. Eligibility & Priority

Enrolled Students: Dancers who are actively enrolled in our regular program and maintain consistent training have first priority for scheduling.
Outside Students: Private lessons may be available to non-enrolled dancers as teacher and studio schedules permit.
The director reserves the right to determine lesson availability and priority based on studio resources.

2. Scheduling

All private lessons are scheduled through the Remind app with the school's office manager, who coordinates scheduling remotely.
Teachers cannot schedule private lessons directly with families; all communication must go through Remind to ensure accuracy and documentation.
Lessons are subject to teacher availability and studio space.
Students must arrive on time, warmed up, and properly prepared. Delayed arrival will not extend the scheduled lesson time.

3. Payment

Payment is required at the time of booking unless otherwise arranged.
Lesson rates are set by the school and may vary depending on the teacher or purpose of the lesson.
Lessons are confirmed only once payment has been received.

4. Cancellations & Rescheduling

Standard Notice: At least 24 hours' notice is required for cancellations or rescheduling. All communication regarding changes must be sent through the Remind app. Lessons canceled with less than 24 hours' notice will be charged in full.
Illness & Emergencies: We understand that unexpected illness or emergencies may arise. In these situations, one late cancellation per semester (fall/spring/summer) may be excused without charge if the studio is notified promptly through Remind. Any additional short-notice cancellations will be billed in full.
Chronic Absences: Frequent cancellations, even with notice, may result in reduced scheduling priority to allow space for other students.
Teacher Cancellations: If a teacher must cancel, the lesson will be rescheduled or credited.

5. Lesson Conduct & Preparation

Students must wear appropriate ballet attire and bring all necessary shoes, music, or materials. Parents and guardians are not permitted to interrupt lessons; observation is at the teacher's discretion.
Students are expected to respect the teacher's guidance and maintain professional etiquette.

6. Special Coaching (Competition/Audition/Exams)

Private lessons for competition, audition, or exam preparation must be approved by the director. Additional fees may apply for choreography, repertoire coaching, or accompanists.

7. Acknowledgement

By scheduling a private lesson, students and parents agree to abide by these policies.

Ballet Studio Student Conduct Policies

To maintain a respectful, disciplined, and positive environment for all, students enrolled at Aplomb Ballet Artistry, you are expected to follow the conduct guidelines below:

1. Respect and Kindness

Treat instructors, staff, fellow dancers, and yourself with respect at all times. Bullying, gossip, or any form of discrimination will not be tolerated. Encourage and support others in their learning process.

2. Punctuality

Arrive 10-15 minutes before class to allow time to dress and warm up.
Late arrivals are disruptive; students arriving more than 10 minutes late may be asked to observe instead of participating.

3. Classroom Behavior

Follow the teacher's instructions the first time they are given. Maintain focus and a quiet, attentive attitude during class.
No talking during barre or center work unless asked to respond. Always raise your hand if you have a question or need assistance.

4. Dress Code and Appearance

Wear the appropriate uniform or dress code for each class (including hair neatly secured).
No jewelry (except for small studs), gum, or excessive accessories.
Maintain proper personal hygiene and a clean uniform.

5. Preparedness

Bring necessary class materials (shoes, hair accessories, water bottle, etc.).
Use the restroom before class begins.
Mobile phones must be silenced and kept in a dance bag.
Ask permission to use phone if needed

6. Respect for Studio Property

Do not hang or lean on barres or touch mirrors.
Keep all areas (studio, lobby, bathrooms) clean and tidy.
Food is allowed only in designated areas—not in studios.

7. Attendance and Commitment

Be sure the all competing commitments do not interfere with your regular scheduled classes.
To ensure effective progress and injury prevention, we ask students in these levels to make an exclusive commitment to the training at Aplomb Ballet Artistry. If you are looking to supplement your current training or considering a new approach we welcome new families to give our school a trial period before making a final commitment.
Students may attend open classes and approved summer Intensive courses provided that they are located 100 miles or more away from our studio and teach a curriculum aligned with the curriculum taught at Aplomb Ballet Artistry. Obtain approval from the Artistic Director before attending auditions for outside dance related activities
Regular attendance is essential for progress and participation in performances.
Notify the studio in advance if you will miss a class.

- info@balletaplomb.com for advance notice

- Remind for same day notification

Excessive absences reflect unprofessionalism and may affect eligibility for performances or class advancement.

8. Social Media and Public Representation

Students are expected to represent the studio positively on social media and in text communication.
Do not post or text negative, inappropriate, or disrespectful content related to the studio, teachers, or other students.

9. Consequences for Misconduct

Verbal warning from instructor.
Written notice to parent or guardian (if under 18).
Meeting with the director.
Suspension or dismissal from the studio (for repeated or severe infractions).

Parent Conduct Policies

At Aplomb Ballet Artistry, we strive to create a respectful, encouraging, and distraction-free learning environment. We ask all parents and guardians to observe the following conduct guidelines:

1. Support Studio Values

Encourage your dancer to demonstrate respect, discipline, and commitment.
Model positive behavior and language at all times when interacting with staff, students, and other families.

2. Respect for Staff and Faculty

Address teachers, staff, and administrators with courtesy and professionalism.
Do not enter studios or interrupt classes unless specifically invited.
Direct questions or concerns to the appropriate staff member outside of class time, via email or scheduled appointment.
Parents are asked to wait outside the studio during class unless invited in.
Do not interrupt classes or attempt to speak to your child through the door or window.
Be mindful that parent presence outside the window whether you pull up in your car or stand outside can often break distraction for students inside class at the most critical moments. Picking up students early
Genuine emergencies
Students need to complete exercises in order not to be a disruption to others in the class. In the event of an early pick up please be mindful to enter and wait until your child is excused.

4. Class Observation

Parents are not permitted in the studio during class time unless a designated observation day is scheduled.
Please respect students' focus and the teacher's instruction time.

5. Timeliness

Ensure your child arrives on time and is picked up promptly. Repeated lateness may affect participation in class and performances.

6. Communication

Check emails, BAND announcements, and read Remind messages. Attend mandatory parent meetings
Use designated communication channels for questions or concerns
info@balletaplomb.com for billing and general questions
Remind for scheduling private lessons, and reporting last minute information BAND for clarifying questions regarding a BAND info post
Social media posts involving the studio should reflect positivity and respect.

7. Tuition and Financial Obligations

Pay tuition and fees by their due dates to ensure your dancer's enrollment remains in good standing.
Contact the studio in advance if you need to discuss payment plans or financial concerns.

8. Performance Expectations

Support your dancer in meeting attendance and rehearsal requirements for performances. Be respectful to staff and volunteers during show preparation and backstage operations. Avoid criticizing casting decisions or other students.

9. Confidentiality and Discretion

Respect the privacy of all students, staff, and families.
Refrain from discussing other students' progress or behavior.

10. Zero Tolerance for Disruptive Behavior

The studio reserves the right to dismiss any parent or guardian who engages in:

Harassment or verbal abuse

Gossip, bullying, or spreading negativity within the community
Any behavior that disrupts the educational environment or damages the school's
reputation
By enrolling your dancer at Aplomb Ballet Artistry, you agree to uphold these policies. We appreciate your partnership in maintaining a respectful and nurturing environment for all.

Health and Safety Risk Release Waiver

Acknowledgment of Risk

I understand that participation in dance classes, rehearsals, and performances at Aplomb Ballet Artistry involves physical activity and inherent risk of injury, including but not limited to sprains, strains, falls, and other potential bodily harm. I acknowledge that ballet and other forms of dance may involve strenuous movements, physical contact, use of equipment, and participation in studio and off-site

activities.

I voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation and understand that while the studio maintains a safe environment, accidents or injuries may still occur.

Medical Treatment Authorization

In the event of a medical emergency, I authorize Aplomb Ballet Artistry, its directors, instructors, and staff to seek emergency medical treatment for myself (or my child, if under 18), including transportation to a medical facility. I understand that I am responsible for any costs incurred for such treatment.

I certify that I (or my child) am physically fit to participate in dance activities and have disclosed any medical conditions, allergies, or limitations to the studio in writing.

COVID-19 and Communicable Illnesses

I understand that despite precautions, there is still a risk of exposure to contagious diseases including, but not limited to, COVID-19, influenza, and other illnesses. I agree not to send myself (or my child) to class if exhibiting symptoms of illness, and I will comply with the studio's health policies, including mask usage, social distancing, and any quarantine requirements.

Liability Release

In consideration of being allowed to participate in programs at Aplomb Ballet Artistry, I hereby release, waive, discharge, and hold harmless the studio, its owners, teachers, staff, volunteers, and landlords from any and all liability, claims, or demands for personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death that may arise from participation, whether caused by negligence or otherwise.

This release includes, but is not limited to, claims arising during:

Dance instruction

Rehearsals and performances

Use of studio facilities

Off-site events and performances

Enrollment form