Teacher Code of Conduct and Policies

Code of Conduct 

At Dance Directions, we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and positive learning environment for all dancers and their families. To ensure a smooth and respectful experience for everyone, we have outlined our code of conduct and studio policies for staff. Please read through this carefully to understand the expectations we have for all members of our community. If anything is unclear or concerning, we welcome your feedback and encourage you to reach out for further discussion. Further information can be found in your contract.

Punctuality & Preparedness

All teachers are expected to arrive at the studio at least 10 minutes before class begins. Please come prepared with a class plan, music, and any necessary equipment. Teachers should dress in neat, appropriate dance attire. Clothing should not be revealing, restrictive, or contain offensive slogans or branding. Teachers should also be well-groomed and wear appropriate footwear for their dance style.

Conflict Resolution

Any conflict between a teacher and a client should be immediately reported to the director for resolution.

Confidentiality

All personal, medical, financial, and other sensitive information about our students, staff, and families is confidential. Staff should not disclose such information to unauthorized individuals. Any unauthorized disclosure of confidential information may result in immediate disciplinary action.

Conduct in Studio & Events

Teachers must maintain professionalism in all interactions with students and families. Disruptive behavior, including harassment or defamation, will not be tolerated and may result in dismissal. Harassment—whether physical, verbal, emotional, sexual, or cyber—will be addressed promptly. If you feel harassed by a co-worker, student, or parent, please contact the director immediately.

Classroom Etiquette

Classes (including private lessons) should not be disturbed unless in an emergency. Parents must not approach teachers or students during class. Messages, food, or any special instructions for a student must be passed through a staff member.

Representing the Studio

Teachers are expected to represent Dance Directions professionally during performances, rehearsals, and public appearances. Inappropriate language, attire, or behavior is unacceptable. Alcohol and smoking are prohibited during these events.

Studio Policies for Staff

Communication

Our primary method of communication is email. Please check your email regularly for important updates and reminders. We also provide communication via phone and text during office hours.

Registration

Our dance season runs September to June, following a progressive learning structure. Registration can be completed online, via phone, email, or in person at our office.

Withdrawal Process

Staff should be aware that dancers must give one month's written notice if they wish to withdraw from classes. All outstanding fees must be cleared before withdrawal, including tuition, costumes, and competition fees. Dancers still have access to classes for the month after the office has received notice.

Canceled Classes

In the case of class cancellations (e.g., teacher illness), the class will either be rescheduled or credited to the student's account. If a class cannot be rescheduled, a credit will be applied to the studio account.

Drop-off and Pick-up

Please remind parents that the studio is not responsible for children before or after their scheduled classes. Parents should ensure timely drop-off and pick-up, and in case of any delays, the office should be notified immediately.

Behavior Expectations

We maintain a respectful and inclusive environment for all staff, students, and families. Any disruptive behavior may result in a dancer being asked to leave class, and persistent behavior issues may lead to a private meeting with the parent/guardian. Dance Directions follows a three-strike policy for behaviour concerns to ensure expectations are clear and consistent.

Harassment or Discrimination

We have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or discrimination of any kind. If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsupported, please speak to the studio director. We are here to listen and make sure that Dance Directions remains a welcoming space for all.

Positive Body Talk & Inclusive Language

We promote body positivity and encourage language that fosters inclusivity. Avoid comments related to diet, weight, or fitness that could harm a young dancer’s self-esteem. Discussions should focus on strength, movement quality, and personal growth. Gender-inclusive language is encouraged, and we avoid using terms like "boys and girls" in favor of “dancers” or “team”.

Trial Classes

We offer free trial classes to new dancers, and staff are encouraged to be aware of this opportunity. Dancers wishing to try a new style can also do so for a small fee.

Social Media

When using any and all forms of social media (including but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Threads), all students, parents/guardians must adhere to this Dance Directions social media policy.

At Dance Directions, we value respect, professionalism, and integrity in all forms of communication, including social media. To maintain a positive online presence, all students, parents, and guardians must adhere to the following guidelines when using platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, TikTok, and any other digital media.

Media Release & Recording Policy

By registering at Dance Directions, parents have signed a media release waiver. If they have any questions or concerns, please ask them to contact the office directly.

Photography, video recording, or audio recording in class is strictly prohibited without the teacher’s permission.

All choreography created by Dance Directions staff and guest teachers remains the intellectual property of Dance Directions and its staff. Any content posted on social media must have the choreographer’s permission and must credit both Dance Directions and the choreographer.

No footage of Dance Directions performances may be shared on social media without prior written permission from Dance Directions.

Communication & Conduct

Students and parents may not contact Dance Directions staff via social media for any reason. If a staff member is contacted, they are required to inform the studio director.

Social media is not an acceptable platform for attendance notifications, questions, concerns, or other administrative matters. Please contact the studio via email or phone for all inquiries.

Bullying, harassment, or inappropriate behavior on social media will not be tolerated and may result in immediate dismissal from the studio.

Posting Guidelines

Any content related to Dance Directions must be appropriate and aligned with our studio’s values. If a post is deemed inappropriate or misaligned with our policies, students and parents will be notified, and the post must be removed from all platforms.

By adhering to this policy, we ensure that Dance Directions maintains a positive, professional, and supportive presence both online and in person.

Our Mission:

At Dance Directions we are committed to:

Encouraging creativity and artistic exploration

Be supportive of students as unique individuals

Providing positive, uplifting corrections

Building strong connections with families and our community

Fostering an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere

Encouraging freedom of expression (within the stated studio guidelines)

Creating a supportive and positive space for all

Developing confidence through structured, supportive methods

Cultivating an environment where dancers feel encouraged and inspired

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