Studio

Preparedness:
Students are expected to be ready for their lessons. This means arriving no more than 15 minutes early, dressed appropriately, and with hair ready prior to class. Students at higher levels should warm up and stretch 10–15 minutes before a lesson or rehearsal. This transition period assists in focus and physical well-being. No excuses — your body is your instrument.

Punctuality:
Students arriving late are not permitted to walk into an ongoing class. Late students should wait just inside the classroom door and ask the teacher for permission to join. Students arriving five minutes late for an hour class, or ten minutes late for a longer class, may be asked to observe instead of participate to reduce injury risk. They may make up the class on another day.

Respect for Teachers:
Teachers should be addressed respectfully (e.g., Ms. Megan, Mr. Soto), unless otherwise instructed. This helps maintain a professional environment.

Studio Etiquette:
No gum, food, drinks, street shoes, or cell phones are permitted in the dance studio. A designated area in the lobby is available for eating/snacking. Water bottles are allowed and should be brought to every class. Cell phones must be placed in the Bag of Chaos outside the studio door.
Leave your world at the door — we have important, collaborative work to do.

Classroom Conduct:
Students may not sit down in class unless instructed by their teacher (e.g., due to injury or exhaustion). Students may not leave the classroom without permission for safety reasons.

Focus and Communication:
Excessive talking during class or rehearsal is disruptive. Respect your peers’ learning space. Observation is also a valuable learning tool.

Respect and Behavior:
Be respectful of yourself and others. Kindness is expected at all times. Foul language, bullying, or negativity toward others will not be tolerated. Repeated or severe misconduct may result in suspension or dismissal from the studio without refund.

Pointe Safety:
Dancers on pointe must have properly fitted shoes in good condition. Worn or ill-fitting shoes can cause serious injury.

Attendance and Make-Ups:
Students or parents must call the studio (575.779.9128) if a student will miss class. Missed classes may be made up within the same semester, at the same or lower level, with teacher permission.

Parent Conduct:
Parents should not enter an ongoing class, as this distracts students and teachers. Concerns should be addressed via phone, email, or scheduled conference. If a child must leave early, inform the teacher before class begins. Observation is permitted from the waiting room window or during designated observation weeks. Please do not block or peek through the door.

Pick-Up Policy:
Parents must be prompt in picking up their children after class. If a delay is unavoidable, notify the teacher before class begins for safety reasons.

Tuition and Payments:
Tuition payments must be made on time. Teachers’ wages and the studio’s ability to remain open depend on prompt payments. If payment issues arise, contact the studio immediately to make arrangements. Late payments may incur fees, and continued nonpayment may result in suspension of class participation until the account is current.

Property and Theft Policy:
All personal belongings should be labeled and kept in designated areas. Ballet Taos is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Any act of theft, vandalism, or deliberate damage to studio property or another person’s belongings will result in immediate disciplinary action, which may include suspension, dismissal from the studio, and/or legal consequences.