handbook and student policies
2018-2019
From the director Students and Families Welcome to NPD - Northern Plains Dance. We are truly pleased with your decision to join our family. NPD is committed to providing superior quality and unparalleled service in all aspects of our business, both on the dance floor and off. We believe each person contributes to the success and growth of our school. Above all, we believe that the confidence. Pride of accomplishment and joy that students experience in the dance studio will shine a positive, influential light into their daily lives. This handbook contains general information on our policies, practices and expectations. Please read it carefully. If you have questions regarding the handbook, please discuss them with me. We look forward to a wonderful year with your artist. Sincerely,
Hollis Mackintosh Heid, Director
MISSION & core values Northern Plains Dance is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. MISSION - To inspire the appreciation of dance through artistic excellence and to enrich the cultural landscape of our community. In furtherance of our mission, we are committed to maintaining: • Exceptional and diverse performances • High quality educational programs • Outreach to inspire and enrich the community • A sound financial condition that enables growth and provides a stable viable future
Table of contents Calendar ................................. 1 Section One: About ................ 2 Contact Information Staff Board of Directors Inclement Weather Updates Communication Consider A Gift Fundraising & Special Events Speaking with an Instructor Academy Referrals Studio Rental Dance Competitions Student Company Audition Videos Summer Study Section Two: Class Policies ...... 5 Class Placement Teaching Methods Corrections Peek Week/Class Observation Costume Week Parent Participation Week Bring a Friend Week Attendance Arrival Tardiness Picking Up Your Dancer Injuries Illness Class Cancellations Photography & Videotaping
Section Three: Registration & Payments ...... 8 Registration Tuition Policies Payment Methods Late Tuition Penalty Class Change Request Withdrawal Policy Discover Dance Fund : Tuition Assistance Class Punch Cards Section Four: Facility Use ............................. 10 Student Arrival/Pick Up & Parking Waiting Areas Section Five: Students and Conduct ............ 12 Student Contact Parent Conduct Non-Discrimination & Non-Harassment Policy Social Media Policy Complaint Policy Banned Substances Section Six: Student Dress Code ......... 14 All Students Hair Where to Purchase Dancewear Dress Code Listed by Class
Section Seven: Production Policies ...... 16 Auditions Casting Production Fees Advanced Roles Rehearsals Mandatory Dates Theater Rules The Nutcracker Dance+ Rapunzel Section Eight: Glossary of Terms ......... 21
AUGUST 2018 Donation of the Month: Toilet Paper
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SEPTEMBER 2018
Donation of the Month: Garbage Bags S M T W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
OCTOBER 2018
Donation of the Month: Copy Paper S M T W Th F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
NOVEMBER 2018
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DECEMBER 2018
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August 10……………………………………………………………………………………Open House August 27…………………………………………..…………………………………...Start of Classes September 7-28………………………………………………..Wedding Dance Workshop (Fridays) September 12…………………………...……….……………………Start of 10000x200 Fundraiser September 15……………………………….…...……………………………….Nutcracker Auditions September 21…………………………..………...………………………………... Month Tuition Due September 29……………………………..…………...……………………The Prince Charming Ball October 6………………………….....………………..…………………………………...Garden Party October 13………………………………..…...…………....................End of 10000x200 Fundraiser October 18-19………………………….....………………..……………………………...Dance Camp October 19…………..…..………………..…………....……………..Quarter and Month Tuition Due October 20………………………………………..……………………………………End of Quarter 1 October 22-27………………………………..………………....................Parent Participation Week October 22……………………………………………...………..……………………Start of Quarter 2 October 22 ………………………….....……………………………….Nut & Candy Fundraiser Start October 29-November 3………………..……………………………………In Class Costume Week October 31………………….....……………………………………………..NPD Closed; No Classes November 3……………………..……………...Nutcracker Mandatory Cast Meeting & Rehearsal* November 12……………………….….....………………..………………………………Dance Camp November 16…………..…..………………..……………….………………………Month Tuition Due November 17…………….….….…………….……………………………..Nutcracker Studio Dress* November 20………………..……….…………...………………………….Nut & Candy Orders Due November 22-24 ………………..……………..…….……………………...NPD Closed; No Classes December 1…….…………………………………………………Mandatory Nutcracker Rehearsal* December 1……………………………………………………………...Thank a Dance Teacher Day December 3-9.……………………….….………………Nutcracker Production Week; No Classes* December 7-9..……………….………………………...………………….Nutcracker Performances* December 14………………………...…...………………………………………Nut & Candy Pick Up December 22…………………………………………………………………………..End of Quarter 2 December 24 – January 5…………….…...……………………………….NPD Closed; No Classes January 4…………......………………………………………………Quarter and Month Tuition Due January 7………………………...…………….……..…………Classes Resume/ Start of Quarter 3 January 10………………………..………………..……..……………....................Dance+ Auditions January 14……………………..……………………………....................Giving Hearts Day Kick-Off January 18-February 8…………..…………………………….Wedding Dance Workshop (Fridays) January 21……………………………………….……………………Mandatory Dance+ Rehearsal* January 21-26………………..………………….……………………...Bring a Friend to Class Week February 1………………..………………….….……………………………………Month Tuition Due February 2………………………………………………………………..……………..World Tutu Day February 7……………...…………….……………………………Dance+ Mandatory Cast Meeting* February 7…………………..………….…………………………………………...National Ballet Day February 14…………………..…………………..………………………………….Giving Hearts Day February 16……………..…….…………………………………………………Dance+ Studio Dress* February 18-23………………………...……………………Dance+ Production Week; No Classes* February 22-23…………………………...……………………………………Dance+ Performances* February 25……………….…………………….………….……Start of Bacon for Ballet Fundraiser March 2……………………………………...…….………………………………..Rapunzel Auditions March 8……………………………..……….………………………...Quarter and Month Tuition Due March 9……………………………………..……………..……………………………End of Quarter 3 March 11………………..……………………..………………………………………Start of Quarter 4 March 16………………………….....………………..……………………………………Garden Party March 25………………………….....………………..……………………………………Dance Camp April 1………………………..……………….....…Bacon for Ballet Orders Due (subject to change) April 5…………………...……………………..…..…………………………………Month Tuition Due April 13……………………………………………..…….…………………………….The Butterfly Ball April 22-27……………...………………………………………...Administrative Professional’s Week April 27……………...……………………………Rapunzel Mandatory Cast Meeting & Rehearsal* April 29…………………..………….…………………………………………International Dance Day April 29-May 4……..…………………………………………………………………………Peek Week May 4...…………………...….……………………………………….………..Rapunzel Studio Dress* May 6-11 ………………..……..…………….…………………………...Teacher Appreciation Week May 11………………………….…………………………………...Mandatory Rapunzel Rehearsal* May 11……………….………….....…………..……………..End of Quarter 4/ Last Day of Classes May 13-19……………..………….………………..….….Rapunzel Production Week; No Classes* May 17-19…………………..………..….…………………………............Rapunzel Performances* May 21-June 11……………..………………………………Wedding Dance Workshop (Tuesdays)
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FEBRUARY 2019
Donation of the Month: Toilet Paper
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MARCH 2019 Donation of the Month: Cleaning Supplies
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APRIL 2019
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MAY 2019
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Mark your Calendars!
*Production dates listed on this calendar are mandatory for all cast members. See handbook for more information on production policies.
Auditions Fundraising Special Event
JANUARY 2019
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The tentative dates for NPDE and NPDE Jr. are planned for June 3-14. Tuition Due Start of Quarter End of Quarter
Mandatory Production Date Peek Week Production Week – all days mandatory NPD Closed
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SECTION ONE: ABOUT CONTACT INFORMATION At NPD, we understand communication is key in providing an exceptional experience for students and their families. For questions, concerns or general inquiries, the best way to get in touch with us is via the contact information below: Main Telephone: 701.530.0986 Main Email: dance@northernplainsdance.org Website: www.northernplainsdance.org Mailing Address: Northern Plains Dance 1125 East Main Ave Bismarck ND 58501 Because multiple staff members have access to the above communication channels, they give us the best opportunity to respond to you quickly. We also utilize our Facebook page as a way to stay in touch and communicate with our families so if you’re a social media maven, please be sure to like us on Facebook.
Staff Need to get in touch with a specific staff member? Below is a list of our Administrative staff, their areas of support and relevant contact information. Hollis Mackintosh Heid, Director Phone: 701.530.0986 ext 200 Email: mackintosh@northernplainsdance.org Laura Devlin, Studio Administrator Phone: 701.530.0986 ext 205 Email: devlin@northernplainsdance.org Jamie Vadnal, Instructor Phone: 701.530.0986 ext 201 Email: classes@northernplainsdance.org
Katherine Hardy, Education Coordinator Phone: 701.530.0986 ext 203 Email: hardy@northernplainsdance.org Mackenzie Schmaltz, Marketing Manager Phone: 701.530.0986 ext 202 Email: schmaltz@northernplainsdance.org Tina Mason, Instructor Madeline Schueller, Instructor Phone: 701.530.0986 ext 201 Email: classes@northernplainsdance.org
Board of Directors
NPD is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that holds board meetings six times per calendar year. All Board meetings are open to the public. If you would like to know when the next Board meeting is scheduled or would like information on how to become a member, please contact us via phone or e-mail. For a current list of Board Members, please visit our website.
Inclement weather updates In the event of severe weather or unexpected events requiring school closure, NPD does its best to keep Academy families informed via the following channels: Northern Plains Dance Website: Facebook: Instagram: Television Stations:
www.northernplainsdance.org Northern Plains Dance Northern Plains Dance KFYR
Should severe weather occur or be imminent, we encourage you to check in frequently throughout the day as closure status may change pending information from our trusted sources. Be sure to check the above resources before calling the office. Those parents driving in from outside Bismarck or those with teenaged drivers will be asked to use their judgment regarding the safety of driving to reach NPD. If NPD cancels a class session for any reason including weather, students will be allowed to make up the class in a similar class of the same level within 30 days.
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Communication In order to provide the best service to our students and families, it is essential NPD has current and updated contact information for all enrolled students. In an effort to be environmentally friendly, we communicate primarily by email. As such, it is imperative NPD has an accurate and frequently checked email address on file. It is each family’s responsibility to provide and update contact information as well as read all emails and newsletters from NPD. This is especially important in the event of an emergency. Failure to provide current contact information may result in you missing important notices and announcements or your account being sent to collections if we’re unable to be in touch regarding payment issues or concerns.
Consider a gift Did you know Northern Plains Dance is a nonprofit organization and tuition only covers a portion of our day-today operating costs? By making a tax-deductible monetary gift to NPD, you will help the continuing effort of NPD to develop innovative programs that bring the arts to the Great Plains region. Northern Plains Dance is happy to provide you with a tax receipt for your records. You can also visit our website for a complete list of creative ways that you can support NPD through in-kind donations.
Fundraising & special events All NPD students are asked to participate in four fundraisers per year to generate support for the various programs that take place outside of the regular class schedule like outreach efforts and scholarship funds. Participation is strongly ENCOURAGED but not mandatory. At the close of each fundraiser (see Calendar on Page 1 for details) the student who has raised the most money will win a $100 Northern Plains Dance gift card. All students that participate will be entered into a drawing to win 1 of 4 $25 NPD gift cards at the end of the fundraising season.
$10,000 x 200: Each student is asked to
Giving Hearts Day:
Nuts and Candy:
Bacon for Ballet:
raise at least $50 by sending out request letters to friends and family with a studio goal of $10,000. Held in September/October. Students are asked to sell and distribute nuts and candy around the time of the holidays. Held in October/November.
Students are asked to promote Northern Plains Dance on February 14th, the 12th annual state-wide giving day sponsored by the Impact Foundation. Held in January/February. Students are asked to sell and distribute bacon and meat products. Held in February/ March.
In addition, NPD hosts a number of public special event fundraisers throughout the year. If you would like more information on how to get involved, contact Northern Plains Dance at 530-0986 or dance@northernplainsdance.org.
The Prince Charming Ball:
The Butterfly Ball:
Sugarplum Tea Party:
Spring Performance Brunch:
A dance for boys ages 5-12 and that special lady in their lives, whether it be mom, aunt or grandma. September 29, 2018 A pre-performance party complete with holiday sweets, story time, and the chance to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and other favorite Nutcracker characters. December 8&9, 2018
A dance for girls ages 5-12 and that special guy in their lives, whether it be dad, uncle or grandpa. April 13, 2019 A pre-performance party with treats, story time, and a meet-and-greet with favorite characters. May 18, 2019
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Speaking with an instructor If you need to talk to an instructor, contact NPD via email or phone prior to 4:00 PM on weekdays. Do not try to speak with an instructor between classes. Parents are asked to direct any comments, problems, or questions to the Director via email or phone. The staff is not permitted to give out student or teacher phone numbers. Faculty and staff members should not be contacted on their personal phones or emails under any circumstance. Contact through these means will be considered harassment and treated as such.
Academy referrals We strive to share the joy of dance with as many young people as possible. By referring friends and family, you have the opportunity to partner with us in this endeavor. But wait. There’s more. If the friends and family you refer enroll in Academy classes for a minimum of one quarter, you receive a $10 gift certificate for in-stock dancewear upon our receipt of their registration and tuition payment. Note: Please ensure your friend/family member indicates they were referred by you on their registration form.
studio rental NPD studio space is available for rental, schedule permitting. Different rates apply for business and non-business hours. Please see the studio bulletin board for more information.
Dance competitions It is the policy of NPD to not participate in dance competitions at any level. Students interested in attending competitions may do so at any point but may not use NPD’s name.
Student company Students of NPD who show serious commitment to dance will be invited to join the Student Company. Members of the Company are required to attend a minimum number of classes per week, participate in all performances during the regular season in addition to outreach activities throughout the year. Company members are required to attend one warm-up class per week during production periods in addition to their regular classes to further their training and solidify them as a group. Invitations to participate in the Student Company are made at the sole discretion of the Director. More information on Student Company requirements is available upon request.
Audition videos NPD offers videography and editing services for dancers who are sending audition videos for summer and college programs. Different rates apply for spring and fall semesters, due to faculty and space availability. For more information, contact us via phone or email.
SUMMER STUDY Anyone who wishes to be considered a serious dancer; anyone in the Advanced levels; anyone currently en pointe and anyone who is or anticipates becoming a member of the Student Company is required to attend summer classes. The summer study requirement is a minimum of 50% of the offered Drop In Classes, at Northern Plains Dance Experience or at another approved summer program. Students who do not follow these guidelines will not advance to the next level or may drop down a level for the following year of study and will not be permitted to dance en pointe (including auditions for The Nutcracker) for the first 12 weeks of the year. Intermediate and advanced students with professional aspirations are encouraged to take part in the national summer school auditions held during the early months of the year. Auditioning is a valuable part of a dancer’s training and the more auditions that one does, the easier they become. Even if the student is not planning to go away for the summer, the audition process is a valuable one and one that should be experienced by any serious dancer. Please ask your teacher for more information or check in Pointe Magazine in December and early January.
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SECTION two: class policies Come to class prepared to learn. Do not enter a studio without being invited by an instructor. There are barres and mirrors in each of the studios. Barres are not to be pulled or sat on. Mirrors are breakable and easily smudged; they are not to be touched. Students must ask permission before leaving the classroom and raise a hand to ask questions during class. Students are encouraged to ask questions pertaining to what they are learning. Students may not sit during class. This causes the muscles to cool down and may result in injury by resuming exercise when cold. Students are asked to devote their concentration to their personal performance; thus, side conversations are not permitted during any class or rehearsal. Parties or events that are not official NPD events are not to be discussed at the studio. Food and beverages may be consumed in the lobby only. No gum, candy, cough drops, etc. In class. Only bottles of water are permitted in the studios; no cups will be allowed. Cell phones are not permitted in the studios. Students are expected to maintain suitable composure for their age. If a student continually disrupts class, NPD may call for parental involvement. NPD will not tolerate emotional outbursts or swearing in the studio. If there is a problem, make an appointment with the Director to resolve any conflict that may arise.
Class placement Great care is taken in the placement process as well as the construction of class schedules and the assignment of teachers. Each level is tailored to include students within a range of development, so there will be a range of ability in each level. Students are placed according to their current stage of ability, physical, psychological development, and age. Students progress faster by spending the time necessary to master fundamentals, rather than rushing ahead to a more advanced level. It is very common for students to repeat a level. In fact, students should expect to repeat a level at least once during the course of their training at the Academy. Moving through levels too quickly can have a detrimental effect on student training and can hinder progress at more advanced levels. For the safety and benefit of our students, we take proper level placement very seriously and strongly encourage parents to defer to the expertise of our faculty when placement decisions are made. We consider it our responsibility to work in the best interest of our students. Placement of returning students is always a collective faculty decision. NPD faculty reserves the right to re-evaluate a student’s placement at any time, based on factors including, but not limited to, performance and attitude. NPD reserves the right to place students in a different level than age dictates. Such placement is based solely on the recommendation of the faculty. Questions regarding placement should be addressed to the Director. Readiness for pointe work is evaluated during the year for female students in Level 2 who show potential and capacity to move on to Level 3. NPD faculty considers the decision to place a student on pointe a serious responsibility. The final decision to place a student on pointe is based on classroom observation and the expert opinions of the faculty. The faculty must consider each student’s safety and well-being on an individual basis, with regard to anatomical structure, injury prevention, strength, flexibility and technical ability.
TEACHING METHOD Dance instruction requires that the teacher physically touch the students. The student who wants to improve appreciates verbal or physical corrections. Actual touching and physical moving of body parts is essential to the proper teaching of dance. Proper dance training happens only when the student feels the correct body position and in most cases that requires the teacher place the body into position. This can cause muscular discomfort. It is not unusual for a dancer to come home with sore muscles just as participants in any sport or physical activity might do. Communication and education for both dancers and parents is very much a part of our program. Parents are welcome to observe class with an appointment and speak to the instructor regarding any special concerns.
Corrections As a part of their training, dancers will receive frequent constructive criticism (called corrections) throughout the year. Corrections are given to assist and teach. The student should understand that a correction is a gift and should be received as such.
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PARENT PARTICIPATION WEEK One week during the year, parents are invited to join their dancers in class to get a true taste of what the dancers go through. Please wear something that you can move in comfortably and leave your other children at home so that you can devote yourself solely to bonding with your dancer.
COSTUME DRESS-UP WEEK One week during the year there is a designated dress up week, where dancers are invited to arrive for their class in costume. Wear your most beautiful costume! (Please choose something that you can dance in.)
BRING A FRIEND TO CLASS WEEK One week during the year, dancers are invited to bring a friend to class with them to experience what the dancer experiences every class day. The friend should wear something that allows them to move comfortably and to sit on the floor.
Peek week/class observation While parents are welcome to wait in the lobby for their student during class time, NPD has a strict policy of not allowing class observation. Students do not give their full attention to their instructor when there is another audience to draw their attention. Some children behave differently when their parents are watching, others simply want to wave or keep their eye on their parent for approval or input. Small children sitting inside the studio, running in and out of the doorways and laughing or doing gymnastics where the students can see them is also extremely distracting. For you to receive full value for your dancer’s class time, they need absolute concentration. The fewer distractions available to them, the more progress the teachers can make in each class. NPD is proud to hold a Peek Week once a year in the spring (the exact dates are on the calendar). During these weeks, we invite you into the studio to observe your student’s class(es). During Peek Week, parents are to adhere to the following: • Please respect the seriousness of the studio classroom and the hard work that the students are engaged in. • Please no talking. • Please silence all cell phones. • Please wait for a class break to enter or exit the studio.
Attendance All students are expected to attend the classes for which they are registered. Official class attendance is taken by instructors at the beginning of class. Should a student need to miss class, please complete the form online at www. northernplainsdance.org/absence prior to the absence, so his/her absence can be considered excused. Excused absences will permit the student to attend a make-up class. Unexcused absences cannot be made-up in other classes and will count against the student’s attendance record. Should a student be absent, they are encouraged to take a make-up class during another class time in their same level or a level lower. In the interest of our students and families, make-up classes allow students to keep pace with the momentum of Academy curriculum, safely build physical strength and maximize the value of their tuition. Making up missed classes is an option, not a requirement. Make-up classes are available to students who have an excused absence or for classes canceled by NPD. Tuition will not be reimbursed for any absence or cancellation. All requests for makeup classes must be made online at www.northernplainsdance.org/absence. A make-up slip must be picked up by the student at the front desk once reported and given to the teacher at the start of the make-up class. This slip is required in order to attend the appropriate make-up class. You may make up a class up to 30 days following the absence. You will be prompted to pick the appropriate make-up class time at the time of reporting online. Please use the online form at www.northernplainsdance.org/absence to schedule a make-up class for your student. During the Academic year, there is no official limit on the number of allowable absences, however, please note: • Missed classes for any reason are not eligible for refunds. • Absences must be reported prior to the missed class in order to be eligible to be made up. • Students in classes that meet once a week are allowed to make up 2 classes per quarter (1 a month). • Students in classes that meet two or more times a week are allowed to make up 5 classes per quarter (3 per month). • Excessive unexcused absences that are not made up, may, at the discretion of the instructor and the Director, result in a student repeating a level.
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arrival Students should always wear some sort of street clothes (shorts, skirt, pants, etc) over their dance attire when arriving and leaving class. They should also be wearing some form of street shoes. Students should NEVER wear their dancing shoes outside of the building as they will pick up debris which ruins their shoes and the studio floors. Dancers should arrive no less than ten minutes before their class to have enough time to dress, prepare their hair and stretch. NPD understands that sometimes it is necessary to drop students off well before the start of the their class due to family schedules. If a student causes disrutpiton in the lobby and must be spoken to by a staff member more than once, early drop off by that family will no longer be allowed.
Tardiness Just as attendance is very important, so is being timely. Please schedule sufficient travel time to avoid arriving late for class. Children need time to socialize, dress and stretch before class. All students should arrive a minimum of ten minutes early for each class. Class will start at the designated time. Children who arrive late are frequently out of step for half of the class. Habitual tardiness is discouraged as it is disruptive to the class and the teacher. If a student is more than 15 minutes late, he/she will be asked to observe the remainder of the class. Students who are late, nevertheless, are encouraged to come and observe class, since much can be learned by observation. This is for the physical safety of the students. Students may not enter class late or leave class early without the teacher’s permission. If you are having difficulty getting your child to class on time, please notify NPD and another class will be suggested for you.
picking up your dancer It is very important that you pick your child up in a timely manner. Students must be picked up within 15 minutes after their last class or at class end if it is the last class of the day. We care deeply about our students but our limited staff cannot be responsible for childcare duties that take them beyond their job descriptions and normal working hours. If you are running late, please call the office. Should there be repeated tardiness (more than 1 occurrence) from the same family, NPD will charge the family $20 for every 15 minutes or portion thereof, in order to retain personnel past the regularly scheduled hours.
Injury procedure Should a student injure themselves in class they are to notify their teacher immediately so the proper procedures may be followed. Students and/or parents should inform a faculty member immediately about any injury. Depending on the severity of the injury, faculty may encourage them to be seen by a doctor before continuing class or rehearsal. In the event of injury, students are encouraged to attend and observe class. If a student sits out of class twice due to the same injury, a doctors’ note mis required to return to participating in class.
illness/infectious disease policy There are times when a student may have an illness that may make them unable to participate fully in their scheduled class. They are to arrive for their class at the regular time and observe the class unless they are contagious (see below) or in bed. To protect both the individual and his classmates, parents must keep a child at home during the highly infectious first stages of a cold or other communicable ailment. In the event of illness, students MUST stay home. We kindly ask your respect in adhering to this policy in the interest of the safety and wellness of all students, faculty, and employees of NPD. NPD reserves the right to remove a student from class or rehearsal in the event the student exhibits any signs of illness, including but not limited to, flu-like symptoms or other symptoms of a contagious illness, such as pink eye or rash. NPD also reserves the right to require a statement from a physician verifying a student’s condition is not contagious to other students prior to the readmission of the student to future classes or rehearsals.
Class cancellation Any class with an enrollment of less than four after the fourth week of classes will be cancelled by NPD and students will be transferred to a class of equal level and value. If a suitable alternative cannot be found, NPD will refund the tuition for the unused classes minus the registration fee. Should a class drop below four students anytime during the academic year, NPD will work with the parents to find a suitable class within the same level. No refunds will be given if a student withdraws from a class that is not cancelled by NPD. A teacher may cancel a class session if only one student is present with no refunds or credits given to the student.
Photography & videotaping In respect of the privacy of the students, NPD does not allow photography or videotaping of classes, rehearsals or performances unless specifically permitted by the faculty. Performance photos and videos may be purchased through NPD when available.
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SECTION three: registration & payments Registration Registration is for the full Academy year (August/September 2018 - May 2019) and we assume that everyone will continue throughout the year, same class and time. By registering your student for class, you are securing a space in class and are financially responsible for that space regardless of your student’s attendance. Registrations will be processed in the order in which they are received, on a first come first served basis. Registration may be completed online, by mail, or in person. The first full tuition payment is required to reserve a spot in a class. There is an annual registration fee of $15 per family. Should your student’s situation change post-registration, you have withdrawal options available to you which are outlined below. We strongly encourage you to read through them carefully. All students must attend the classes for which they originally registered, unless an official change request form is completed and approved. NPD customers can manage their classes and account information online using the Customer Portal. Upon registration, customers will be sent a link and instructions to login for the first time. Customers can update their contact information, view their fees and payments, enroll into additional classes and events, and send online payments. If you have questions or need assistance with the Customer Portal, please contact us via phone or email.
Tuition policies Registration is accepted throughout the year for classes with openings. Tuition will be prorated based on late start dates. Discounts on tuition may be available though only one discount may be applied at a time. Families with multiple siblings will receive a 10% discount on the lowest tuition(s). NPD will calculate this discount upon registration. No tuition reductions or refunds are made due to absences. All students enrolled at NPD must provide a valid credit card/debit card number to be kept on file. The first tuition payment is due at the time of enrollment, on or before the first day of the student’s class. Remaining tuition installments are due prior to the due dates listed on the calendar. If payment is not received according to this policy, late fees will be applied as outlined in Late Tuition Penalty. NPD will not accept late payment requests. Tuition is non-refundable, but tuition credits may be allowed under certain circumstances, to be used within 90 days from the date proper paperwork is processed (see Withdrawal Policy). This credit may be used for class tuition only. Tuition Assistance applications are available upon request (see Discover Dance Tuition Assistance). Students receiving this assistance commit to an attendance policy and agree to complete volunteer hours.
Payment methods All families must provide a valid credit card/debit card to be kept securely on file. It is the responsibility of the customer to keep credit card information up to date through the Customer Portal. Upon registration, customers will select either automatic or standard billing. NPD encourages enrollment in the automatic payment plan. The credit card on file is run automatically two business days prior to the due date set forth, unless written notice is received by the office three business days prior to the due date. Customers who select this plan will be invoiced one week prior to due dates. Customers who opt for standard payments will be invoiced one week prior to due dates. Payments must be made in a lump sum, partial payments will not be accepted. If payment is not received by 12:00 PM on the due dates listed, late fees will be added to the currently due invoice as outlined in Late Tuition Penalty. NPD accepts cash, check, Visa, Master Card and Discover. Credit card payments can be made online, in person or on the phone. Note: NPD requires a $15 minimum when using a credit/debit card. All returned checks will be routed to Check Control and assessed a $30 fee in addition to any fees assessed by Check Control. If a check for tuition payment is returned, the student will not be allowed to attend classes until tuition is paid in full, including late fees and returned check fees. In order for students to charge dancewear items to the card on file, NPD must have a Charge Permission form on file. This form is available on our website under Student Resources.
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Late tuition penalty If tuition is not received according to policies outlined above, late fees will begin to accrue on the currently due invoice. Any account that is not paid by 12:00 noon on the due date will be assessed a penalty of $10.00. An additional penalty of $5.00 will be assessed at 12:00pm on each following business day until payment is received. After 5 late fees have been assessed to an account, the student will be dropped from all classes. In order to resume classes, the student must re-register and pay all applicable fees, including the registration fee, in addition to all past unpaid invoices.
Class change request Students wishing to change their class schedule must do so by submitting a Class Change Request Form. Speaking to your teacher is not sufficient notice to alter your schedule. Class Change Request Forms must be approved by NPD staff. This form is available on our website under Student Resources.
Withdrawal policy Families are responsible for all tuition payments throughout the year. Any withdrawal of classes, even in the event of a class change must be initiated via the NPD office. If it becomes necessary to withdraw the student from classes, you must notify the office in writing via the Drop Form. This form is available on our website under Student Resources. Withdrawal cannot be completed by phone call, email notification or through a third party. Students who withdraw from class prior to the end of the academic year with the proper paperwork are not obligated to pay remaining tuition, but will not be refunded any tuition paid, unless withdrawing for injury or illness as supported by a doctor’s letter of inability to participate. Refunds are at the discretion of the Director. All Drop Forms require two business days of processing time. This means if withdrawing from a class mid-session, Drop Forms must be received two business days prior to a class date in order to receive tuition credit for that class. In order to avoid charges on the tuition due dates listed on the calendar, all Drop Forms must be submitted two business days prior to payment processing. Submission of a Drop Form two business days prior to the upcoming tuition due date will release you from any of your future tuition commitment. Tuition will not be refunded if drop notice is received after this deadline. Classes missed cannot be made up after withdrawal. Tuition will continue to be charged until the Drop Form is processed by the office. Funds remaining after the date will be held on student’s account as a tuition credit for up to 90 days (see Tuition Policies, page 8). Once students have withdrawn from all classes, they must re-register in order to resume classes and pay all applicable fees, including the registration fee. If a student stops attending classes without adhering to this policy, the student must re-register and pay all applicable fees (including the registration fee and all past unpaid invoices) in order to resume classes.
Discover dance fund: tuition assistance Northern Plains Dance wants to share the joy of dance with students from the entire region. Based on funding and financial need, a limited number of Tuition Assistance Scholarships are available to students for each quarter during the school year. Applications for tuition assistance are available in the office and will be accepted at the beginning of each quarter and reviewed for renewal at the end of each month. Recipients will complete monthly volunteer hours at NPD for a minimum number of hours that corresponds to the amount of scholarship award. Parents of these students may also assist in carrying out volunteer responsibilities. If volunteer hours are not completed, students will automatically lose their Tuition Assistance and will be invoiced for the full amount due. It’s no secret…we need boys! A special scholarship program is offered for boys from age 7 and up. Requirements to receive scholarship are enrollment in a Ballet class, and participation in The Nutcracker and May performance.
Class punch cards Class punch cards can be used by students ages 18 and older. Refer to our website regarding the classes for which the cards may be used. Present punch cards to the instructor at the beginning of each class. The cost for a 6-class card is $80.00 and can be purchased at the front desk or online. All punch cards will expire 6 months after the purchase date. Class card holders must visit www.northernplainsdance.org/classcard to confirm attendance. If a class doesn’t reach the required minimum of 3 students, NPD will email on the day of class letting students know it has been cancelled. Please note if you sign up for a class that is not cancelled and you do not attend, you will forfeit a punch.
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SECTION four: facility use Northern Plains Dance is used widely by students, staff and community partners. Students are expected to take care of the facility, dispose of trash and clean up after using any common spaces. • The studio is a place to work quietly and with concentration. When students enter the studio, they must feel they are entering a special place where they can achieve anything they work for. • Running and playing in the studios is not allowed at any time. • Students in Level 2 or above are encouraged to enter the studio prior to class for a time of quiet practice or stretching. • Students should be waiting outside the classroom prior to their scheduled time if another class is inside. • All street clothing must be removed before entering the studios. • Behavior in the halls and the dressing room should be polite and quiet. • Respect for the instructor and for one another is essential to a successful classroom environment. Eating is permitted only in designated areas. No chewing gum, eating or drinking is allowed in the studios. Soda cans, bottles, cups or mugs will NOT be permitted in the studios. Students may have a spill-proof water bottle in the studio during class time. Any bottles left in the studio overnight will be thrown away. Students should only wear ballet or dance shoes on the studio floors – street shoes are not allowed. Students are encouraged to arrive in dance attire under their street wear. The dressing rooms are for the use of all NPD students. Dressing rooms are to be kept clean. If students wish to keep dance clothes at the studio, they must provide a plastic container labeled with the student’s name in which to keep them. NPD is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Loose items will be placed in the lost and found. Items left in the studios will be collected at the end of the day and placed in the lost and found bin located in the lobby by the front door, which will be emptied and donated at the end of each month. We recommend all students to label their dancewear and shoes to ensure that personal items are recovered. Classes take place during regular administrative office hours and the administrative offices are in the lobby and near the studios. With respect for the business of employees, students are asked not to enter the administrative offices or work areas unless invited to do so. Students should also be sure to keep all pathways clear when waiting for classes to begin. This includes student belongings. While we want our families to feel at home at NPD, we kindly ask that they respect and be conscientious of business being conducted.
waiting areas during class time We provide seating in the lobby as a courtesy to the families of our students to wait while their student is in class. We require that the furniture and anything else in our lobby is treated with the same level of respect that you would treat materials in a house in which you are a guest. Parents who wish to stay at NPD during their child’s class must wait in the lobby and are asked to meet their children there after class. Students may wait for class to begin in the lobby, dressing room areas, or hallways. Students, parents, siblings, and all guests in NPD are to be quiet when waiting for their class to begin, showing respect to those classes already in session. If you have brought other children with you while waiting to pick up a child, please be sure that you are supervising them. We strive to make this a safe and comfortable environment for you and your children. With this in mind, we ask: • Please be considerate of those around you. At no time should someone be throwing objects, running through the lobby or roughhousing within the lobby and dressing room areas. • Please be sure that all children clean up any snacks and behave appropriately at all times.
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Student arrival/pick up & parking
Our customers are expected to cooperate with all parking procedures. It can get very busy at NPD and we expect full compliance from all students, parents, siblings, and guests in this matter. NPD appreciates your cooperation in helping us get along with our neighbors. If there are any questions, please speak directly with an NPD staff member. The faculty and staff of the NPD are not responsible for student supervision outside the studio. As such, it is imperative families adhere to the arrival and pick up guidelines below in order to ensure each student’s safety and well-being. • Parking for NPD is available on the west side and at the back of the building. • When parking on the west side of the building, use angled parking against the NPD building or the Sanford Health warehouse. • DO NOT PARALLEL PARK AGAINST EITHER BUILDING. • The property to the east of NPD is owned by Turitto’s Dry-Cleaning, not by NPD, and is for Turitto’s customers only. The parking lot is posted and unauthorized vehicles will be towed. • For the safety of students who are entering and exiting the building, do not use the alley to the east of NPD as a thoroughfare. • DO NOT PARK OR DROP OFF IN THE ALLEY BETWEEN NPD AND TURITTO’S DRY-CLEANING. • After 5:00 PM and on weekends, Great Plains Rehabilitation Services has generously allowed NPD families to use their parking lot located on the Northeast corner of 12th Street and Main Ave. Parents are responsible for ensuring their children’s safety when crossing the street. • Do not park in the Great Plains Rehabilitation parking lot before 5:00 p.m. Your vehicle will be ticketed by the St. Alexius Security Office. NPD is not responsible for any fees acquired if parking rules are not followed. • If you are concerned about your child walking through the parking lot alone, you may pull to the south side of the alley by the dumpsters where you can see your child walk up to the front door. Again, please do not drive through the alleyway between NPD and Turitto’s. NPD Parking
After 5:00 only
One Way Traffic
Northern Plains Dance
Private Property: No parking, waiting, or dropping off
Turrito’s Dry Cleaners
South 12th Street
Sanford Warehouse
NPD Parking
East Main Avenue
Exit either direction Railroad Tracks
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SECTION five: standards and conduct In today’s world of instant informality and less than perfect manners, dance class provides an oasis of courtesy and dignity. A good working relationship based on mutual respect between students and instructors, as well as between students, is necessary for the well-being and progress of the students. Students, parents, and guests are to be considerate and respectful at all times. The following values should serve as guidelines for proper behavior of not only students, but parents and other guests. Courtesy and good manners are always expected and encouraged. NPD’s values: Quality: We set the highest standards of pedagogy, performance, safety, and service to each other. Alignment: We are an organized and innovative business that sets and implements shared goals and expectations for ourselves and our students. Professionalism: We represent NPD professionally with our actions, appearance, and dress. Fundamentals: We are fundamentally strong in classical training, which allows for innovation and creativity in instruction and performance. Investment: We invest our time and resources to achieve our goals through cultivating our personal best.
student conduct Part of the tradition of dance is the etiquette that is passed down between generations and NPD expects its students to be a part of this tradition The primary value being respect for the study of dance, the studio, teachers, and fellow students, and displaying a professional attitude every time they enter the building. Older dancers are role models and must represent the highest standards of morals and ethics. They are to set a good example for the younger students. Any violation of etiquette will be addressed by the Director in a telephone call or email to the parents of the student. Repeated or extreme violations could result in expulsion from NPD with no refund of tuition. Students are expected to be courteous and respectful at all times and to adhere to the following: Respect for Others: Students are expected to respect other’s space, property, rights, well-being and dignity. Dancers will be truthful, straightforward, and honest, having integrity in their dealings with each other, other dancers, their teachers and other adults. Competition, though encouraged within the classroom situation, should not be felt in the halls and dressing rooms. Each dancer should help and encourage all of the others to do their best and set a good example for others. Students are to be respectful and considerate of other groups using NPD’s studios and performance venues. Respect for Authority: Students must listen to and follow instructions given by NPD faculty. Respect for Self: Students are expected to care well for themselves and to refrain from any activity that could threaten their physical, emotional, or mental health.
Parent conduct Please be a good role model and keep it positive! Negative or inappropriate language and/or behavior will not be tolerated and may result in dismissal of both parent and/or student from NPD. Please communicate concerns sooner rather than later by contacting the studio to make an appointment. Dance teachers are not to be interrupted before, during, or in between classes. Every effort will be made to address your concerns in a timely manner.
Non-discrimination & non-Harassment policy
NPD believes in the power of dance to connect all people and as such is dedicated to the equitable, dignified, and respectful treatment of all people in an environment free from harassment or discrimination. NPD prohibits harassment of any kind to or by any persons including, but not exclusive to, teachers, staff, students, parents, and persons doing business with the building. This prohibition includes harassment for any unlawful or discriminatory reason such as race, gender, national origin, disability, age or religion. This policy also prohibits actions which, while they may not be serious enough to constitute harassment in a legal sense, are nevertheless commonly understood to be abusive and disrespectful to others. Slurs, jokes, comments or rumors which are derogatory of a person’s race, ethnic background, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation, economic status or age are inappropriate for any NPD related event or activity. This policy extends beyond verbal harassment to include any form of online or digital harassment (see Social Media Policy) or bullying. Bullying also includes, but is not limited to, acts of intimidation or threatening behavior. Each person is responsible for exercising his or her own good judgment to avoid engaging in conduct which may be in violation of this policy. A person who believes himself or herself to be the victim of discrimination or harassment should report the incident to the Director. If a student only feels safe informing a parent, the parent should notify the Director immediately so they have opportunity to address the situation and prevent further incident to the best of their ability. The matter will be dealt with confidentially with disclosure only to the extent necessary for fair resolution of the matter and only to those requiring immediate knowledge. Failure to comply with this policy will result in disciplinary action, which may include removal from the program. mind of each s
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Social media policy DEFINITION OF SOCIAL MEDIA Social media is any form of an online publication or presence that allows interactive communication. This includes social networks, blogs, and photo sharing platforms, Internet websites, Internet forums, and wikis. Examples of social media include, but are not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Google+, and Snapchat. ALIGN YOUR IMAGE WITH YOUR GOALS A digital footprint is the reputation you leave online. Your footprint can include material posted on blogs and mentions on websites and videos that are uploaded onto sharing sites. Your online actions leave a permanent record and remain online, even if you click “delete.” Be thoughtful about what you share online and consider how it would appear to family, friends, colleges, and future employers. Because many colleges and employers search social media before making admissions and hiring decisions, you might want to use social media as a tool to demonstrate your interests in positive ways. For instance, social media allows you to show who you are as a student and a dancer online by sharing what you think about and what matters to you. Student and Parent Use of Social Media: • You do not have permission to reveal any information that compromises NPD. By that we mean the sharing of personal information about the director, staff, students and/or their families or any proprietary and/or confidential information is strictly prohibited. • Students and parents should neither claim nor imply that they are speaking on behalf of NPD. • Use discretion when posting pictures, including those of other students at NPD. Obey copyright laws. • Students and parents may not use social media sites to publish disparaging or harassing remarks about NPD community members, including, but not limited to, faculty, staff, and students. • Never post anything that could compromise self-esteem of students attending NPD. • Respect the law, including those laws governing defamation, discrimination, harassment, copyright and fair use. Parents and students should never post negative comments about other schools, teachers, or events, including competitions, conventions, and performances. Students will be subject to discipline by Northern Plains Dance for: 1. The use of and/or reference to vulgar, sexually explicit, or discriminatory language, actions, and/or gestures. 2. The use of disrespectful or inflammatory remarks or gestures directed at the NPD organization, staff, faculty, students, parents, or any other associated person(s). 3. The use of anything deemed negative or hateful to another individual or organization. 4. Anything deemed as cyberbullying. NPD reserves the right to dismiss students based on the above and any other actions considered unacceptable on all social media platforms in accordance with NPD’s mission and values.
Complaint policy Written complaints may be sent to Northern Plains Dance at 1125 E Main Avenue Bismarck, ND 58501 or by e-mail at dance@northernplainsdance.org. Verbal complaints may be made by phone to (701) 530-0986 or in person to any of Northern Plains Dance’s staff.
Banned substances Alcohol, drugs, smoking, and tobacco use is prohibited for all NPD students, parents, and faculty on school property. Students disregarding this policy will face suspension and/or expulsion from NPD. Any student, parent, or guest who is suspected of being under the influence of any substance or is suspected of providing any substance to another party will be asked to leave the property immediately and the authorities will be contacted.
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SECTION Six: student dress code Dancers are participating in a disciplined art form that requires disciplined preparation. The dress code encourages concentration. Clothes (washed after every class) and shoes should be marked INSIDE with the student’s name and kept in a dance bag to insure that all items are ready for class. Tights, pink for girls and black for boys, enable muscles to be seen. Pink and white shoes continue the line of the leg, and leotards outline the body so the physique can be clearly seen. For the benefit of uniformity in the classroom and even more importantly, to allow instructors to appropriately spot technical errors and offer constructive feedback,NPD requires all students to wear the specific dress code as outlined. Dress code must be worn at all times unless an instructor offers specific permission to do otherwise. Repeated failure to be in uniform may result in a student being asked to sit out during class. All students must wear the proper dance attire for each class. Dance clothes, including shoes, are not available to borrow from NPD. If students are not dressed in the proper attire, they will be given one warning. If they attend again without proper attire, they will sit out and observe class rather than actively participate. NPD may buy back gently used leotards and dance shoes at the discretion of the staff. Purchase price is dependent on the condition of the apparel. NPD also accepts donations of dancewear.
All students The following dress code policies apply to all students regardless of age or division: • Students should arrive at the studio in street clothes or cover-ups. We strongly discourage students traveling to and from class wearing only a leotard. • Dressing rooms are provided; do not use the lobby for changing or storing clothing items. This is a public space. • Do not use bathrooms to change or do your hair. • Nothing should be worn except the dress code as the uniform is several layers. • Mark all dancewear and the inside of shoes with student’s full name. • No jewelry, watches, sweat pants, baggy shirts, etc. are permitted inside the studio. • Do not wear your dance shoes outside. • Do not wear underwear with your leotard and tights. • Boys aged 11 and up must wear a specialized athletic supporter for male dancers. • Flesh-tone leotards purchased for performances are not permitted in class or rehearsals. • Ballet slippers must have elastic SEWN across the instep and tights must cover the feet. • Skirts and leg warmers may be worn only by students in Levels 3 and above during pointe class. • Hair must be neat and secured away from the face. • Dancewear is to be kept laundered and in good repair.
hair One of the cardinal rules of being a dancer is having the hair groomed so that it is immobile and not distracting. • Hair must be fixed in place, close to the head, without exception. • There are to be no hanging braids of any kind or beads. • If there is no possible way for a dancer’s hair to be fixed this way, please see the teacher for instructions. • Girls must wear their hair in a bun with NO BANGS. • Buns must have rubber band, hairnet, and hairpins. • Please use long hairpins with long hair. • Hair that is too short for ponytail and other options listed above can be held in place with a headband. • Students should learn how to fix their own hair. It will take practice, but before long they will be able to do it easily in the car on the way to the studio if necessary. • All students will be expected to meet hair requirements.
Where to purchase dancewear Dancewear can be purchased through NPD. Note that a $15 minimum purchase is required for credit card transactions. Northern Plains Dance stocks everything required by the dress code. If you need to purchase something that is not in stock or as a special order, these must be made through the Dancewear Order form available by asking any staff member and paid in full. In the event that multiple items with different prices must be ordered, a $10 fitting fee will be assessed and the card on file will be charged for the fee and the chosen item when the fitting is complete.
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Female dress code: listed alphabetically by class Class
Leotard
Shoes
Legs
Hair
Other
Ballet 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B Any solid color except flesh tone Pink ballet shoes
Pink footed tights
Proper Ballet Bun
*no attached skirts
Ballet 3, 4, 5
Any solid color except flesh tone Pink ballet shoes
Pink footed tights
Proper Ballet Bun
Skirts are optional
Broadway Bound
Any solid color except flesh tone Black Tap & Black Jazz
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
Secured off of face
Creative Movement
Any solid color except flesh tone Pink ballet shoes
Pink footed tights
Proper Ballet Bun
Hip Hop 1, 2, 3, 4
Any solid color except flesh tone Clean sneakers not worn outside
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
Secured off of face
Jazz 1, 2
Any solid color except flesh tone Black jazz shoes
Black footless tights/ leggings
Secured off of face
Lyrical
Any solid color except flesh tone Black jazz shoes
Black footless tights/leggings
Secured off of face
Modern 1, 2, 3, 4
Any solid color except flesh tone none
Black footless tights/leggings
Secured off of face
Pre-Ballet
Any solid color except flesh tone Pink ballet shoes
Pink footed tights
Proper Ballet Bun
Pre-Dance
Any solid color except flesh tone Pink ballet shoes/Black jazz shoes Pink footed tights/leggings
Secured off of face
Pointe 1, 2, 3
Any solid color except flesh tone Pointe Shoes
Pink footed tights
Proper Ballet Bun
Pre-Pointe
Any solid color except flesh tone Pink ballet or demi-pointe shoes
Pink footed tights
Proper Ballet Bun
*no attached skirts
*no attached skirts
Skirts are optional
Male dress code: listed alphabetically by class Class Ballet 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3, 4, 5 Ballet 3, 4, 5 Boys Only Broadway Bound Creative Movement Hip Hop 1, 2, 3, 4 Jazz 1, 2 Lyrical Modern 1, 2, 3, 4 Pre-Ballet Pre-Dance
Top Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans Solid color fitted shirt with no logos or slogans
Shoes
Legs
Other
Black ballet shoes
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
*all boys over the age of 8 must wear a dancebelt to class for proper support
Black ballet shoes
Solid color dance tights
*all boys over the age of 8 must wear a dancebelt to class for proper support
Black ballet shoes
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
*all boys over the age of 8 must wear a dancebelt to class for proper support
Black Tap & Black Jazz
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
*all boys over the age of 8 must wear a dancebelt to class for proper support
Black ballet shoes
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
Clean sneakers not worn outside Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
*all boys over the age of 8 must wear a dancebelt to class for proper support
Black jazz shoes
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
*all boys over the age of 8 must wear a dancebelt to class for proper support
Black jazz shoes
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
*all boys over the age of 8 must wear a dancebelt to class for proper support
none
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
*all boys over the age of 8 must wear a dancebelt to class for proper support
Black ballet shoes
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
Black ballet shoes/Black jazz shoes
Solid color fitted pants, no snaps or zippers
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SECTION seven: production policies For every aspiring dancer, performance is an essential component of exceptional dance training and integral to the development of the dancer not only as a technician, but as an artist. One of the benefits of an NPD education is its strong professional standards in performance. As such, students have opportunities to audition for three productions during the performance season. All auditions and rehearsals take place outside of regular class times. Please check the calendar for audition and performance dates as well as our website for audition notices. Some of the performance opportunities will be exclusive to NPD students while others may be open to the public. The below policies pertain to all three performances in our performance seasons.
Auditions There is no charge for the audition process. Attendance at auditions is required for consideration for a role; however, attendance does not guarantee a role. At the time of audition, students will be required to list any specific dates they will not be available for rehearsals during the production period. Only dates listed at the time of audition will be considered an excused absence. Unexcused absence from rehearsal is grounds for removal from the production. All rehearsal dates that the cast member will be missing must be provided at the time of audition. These specific dates are used for detailed scheduling for rehearsals and costume fittings. Rehearsals are held on Saturdays between 12:30 PM and 6:00 PM and Thursdays between 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM. Daily mandatory rehearsals are held during production weeks. If students have more than two Saturday conflicts in a rehearsal period, they will not be cast in the production. Missing any mandatory rehearsals will result in dismissal from the production.
Casting Casting is determined by the NPD faculty to facilitate the best possible production. Casting decisions are not up for discussion or negotiation. Students may or may not be cast in the same roles as their classmates. Once cast, students are expected to attend all rehearsals. Understudies are expected to attend all scheduled rehearsals and know the parts in which they are cast. When the cast list is posted, all deadlines must be met in order to maintain participation in the production.
Production fees Each cast member is required to pay a $75 Production Fee that covers the cost of costuming the dancers as well as the overhead costs of production. For each Production Fee paid, the family will receive two Level D tickets for a specific performance. The Production Fee is non-refundable. Each cast member will be required to make a Volunteer Deposit. NPD will hold Volunteer Deposit checks until the conclusion of the production to guarantee that each family participates in volunteer activities and cast members’ costumes are well maintained. The Volunteer Deposit is structured as follows: • First cast member $75 (a minimum of 3 volunteer hours) • Second cast member in the same family $50 (a minimum of 2 volunteer hours) • Third cast member $25 (a minimum of 1 volunteer hour) Volunteer hours must be completed in the order listed above to recieve your Volunteer Deposit back. If a cast members’ family does not participate in the required volunteer activities or a costume is mistreated, NPD will not return the Volunteer Deposit at the conclusion of the performances. If a family does participate in volunteer activities as outlined above and costumes are well maintained, NPD will return the Volunteer Deposit at the conclusion of the performances. If at any time, a family feels that the fees associated with productions are not feasible, NPD will work with the family to ensure that they are able to participate. In addition to Production Fees and Volunteer Deposits, cast members will be required to purchase undergarments and shoes as outlined by NPD for their specific role. All performance dancewear is to be pristine at the time of performance: no holes, runs, un-sewn shoes, or shoes missing drawstrings will be allowed on stage. More information will be provided in the casting packet after auditions take place. There is also the option to purchase performance add-ons like cast photos, DVDs, cast party tickets, and cast shirts.
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Advanced roles Dancers receiving roles on pointe in The Nutcracker and spring production as well as any role in Dance+ will be required to take warm-up class each Saturday prior to rehearsal and prior to all Production Week rehearsals and performances. Dancers receiving pointe roles who are not members of the Student Company will be required to pay for these classes in addition to other Production Fees. The Nutcracker: $175 Dance+: $125 Sping Production: $150
Rehearsals Rehearsal schedules will be posted on the production website and on the production bulletin board on the Monday of each rehearsal week. Rehearsals fall on Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons and, close to performance, may also occur on Sundays. Rehearsals will be held on the Wednesday of each production week. NPD understands that Wednesday is typically “church night” for many families, but requires that students attend this Wednesday night rehearsal during production weeks. It is VITAL that every dancer attend each rehearsal as rehearsals are essential for a smooth performance. Nerves can lead to confusion and unhappiness and one person’s absence will make a problem for all the others in their dance. Attendance at rehearsals will enable all the children to relax into the rehearsal process and make a happier experience for all. Please be certain that your child is present and ready at the scheduled time. Prior to rehearsals, children are encouraged to eat a light, but nutritious meal and to be well rested rest. Junk food should be avoided. The same etiquette that is expected during class time is required during rehearsal or performance. Each cast member is expected to sign in and out of each rehearsal. Cast members will not be considered present if they do not sign in.
Mandatory dates In each performance section below, mandatory dates are listed. Cast members must be present at all of these dates in order to perform in the production. Once auditions are complete, additional mandatory dates (such as costume fittings) will be determined based on excused absences listed on audition forms. The cast meeting is held on a Saturday at 12:30 PM, with the exception of Dance+, held on a Thursday. It will give you pertinent information regarding production week, costumes, make-up, and general housekeeping. This meeting is mandatory for a parent and the cast member. It is the responsibility of the parent in attendance to communicate the rules with any person involved in getting the student to and from rehearsals. The date of the cast meeting is also a day of mandatory rehearsals for all cast members. Studio Dress is mandatory for all cast members in order to go through the performance in costume as well as take cast photos. The Final Run-Through is the last time that the production will be rehearsed at the studio. Often, this is when the lighting designer and other production staff see the performance as a whole for the first time. Production Week rehearsals will be scheduled every day. Cast members are to be available to attend all scheduled rehearsals during production week.
Theater rules Theater rehearsals are most important. The time scheduling is as close as possible, and every effort will be made to get the children out early, but unforeseen circumstances may cause delays. Please do not plan appointments close to rehearsal time. It is important for each dancer to rehearse onstage in order to be relaxed and enjoy the performance experience. Cast members are expected to respect others and obey all adults and theater personnel. All cast members are expected to respect their costumes and to place them on hangers after each use. This is the cast member’s job not that of the parents or room monitors. Failure to do so will result in the forfeiture of your Volunteer Deposit. All costume guidelines are to be followed, no exceptions. Makeup and hair guidelines will be provided before performances and must be followed. Do not bring valuables to the theater. NPD takes no responsibility for lost or stolen items. • PUT NAMES ON INSIDE OF ALL EQUIPMENT. Shoes and tights must be spotlessly clean and without holes or runs of any kind. NO pins. No writing on soles of shoes. • Absolutely no jewelry may be worn onstage; no pierced earrings. • Do not bring money or valuables to the theater. • No running, jumping, or rough play.
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• Children will need to remove their eyeglasses for stage rehearsals and performances • The dancer will perform better and be more relaxed if encouraged to rest before the program. Also a light meal is desirable. • No pictures or videos are to be taken during the performance • Please put names on INSIDE of all equipment, shoes, etc. • Absolutely NO eating or drinking backstage or in the dressing rooms except water • No part of costume is to be taken home at any time • On a multiple performance day, dancers will need to be picked up between performances, taken home, given a light meal and some time to rest before returning for the evening performance. • Come to the theater prepared and dressed appropriately or be ready to change into the appropriate dress. • Be quiet and respectful of any rehearsals already taking place. • Treat all students, instructors, guest choreographers, room attendants, theater employees, and door guards with courtesy and respect. • The staff does work during theater week and are available via e-mail or phone for questions. Please do not approach staff with questions during rehearsal times. The rules are numerous, but they are essential to a smooth running performance. We ask for your cooperation and patience, should schedules not go quite as planned. Every effort will be made to make rehearsals and performances as smooth running as possible.
The nutcracker - December 7-9, 2018
Auditions Auditions for all roles will be held on Saturday, September 15 from 12:30 – 4:30 PM. Auditions are open to the public ages 4 and up. Attendance is required for consideration for a role. Attendance at auditions does not guarantee a role. If you are auditioning for an NPD production for the first time, you will be required to attend a brief meeting prior to the auditions to discuss requirements and to answer any questions you may have. At the time of audition, students will be required to list any specific dates they will not be available for rehearsals during the production period. These specific dates are used for detailed scheduling for rehearsals and costume fittings. Be aware that rehearsals are held on Saturdays between 12:30 and 6:00 PM and Thursdays between 5:30 and 8:00 PM. See Auditions for further explanation of our rehearsal attendance policy. Casting The cast list will be posted in the studio, emailed, and posted on The Nutcracker production website on Tuesday following auditions. Do not call the studio to inquire about your casting. Again, casting is not up for discussion or negotiation. Casting is subject to change. All cast paperwork and fees must be signed and returned by the due dates. Rehearsals Rehearsals will be held on Thursdays and Saturdays from September 20 - December 1. There will be a mandatory rehearsal on Saturday, November 3, Studio Dress Rehearsal on Saturday, November 17 and Final Run-Through on Saturday, December 1. There are no rehearsals on Thanksgiving weekend (Thursday or Saturday). Performance week is December 3-9. No absences will be allowed during this week. If a cast member is absent from rehearsal, their understudy will perform in their place. Mandatory Dates 9/15 ......................Auditions 11/3 ......................Cast Meeting 11/3 ......................Rehearsal 11/17 ....................Studio Dress 12/1 ......................Final Run-Through 12/3-12/9 .............Production Week & Performances
*Once auditions are complete, additional mandatory dates (such as costume fittings) will be determined based on excused absences listed on audition forms.
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Dance+ - February 22 & 23, 2019 Auditions Auditions for roles will be held on Thursday, January 10 from 5:45-7:00 PM. Auditions are open to the public ages 11 and up. Attendance is required for consideration for a role. Attendance at auditions does not guarantee a role. Guest choreographers will be scheduled through the school year. Participation in guest choreographers’ pieces is for Student Company members only. If you are auditioning for an NPD production for the first time, you will be required to attend a brief meeting prior to the auditions to discuss requirements and to answer any questions you may have. At the time of audition, students will be required to list any specific dates they will not be available for rehearsals during the production period. These specific dates are used for detailed scheduling for rehearsals and costume fittings. Be aware that rehearsals are held on Saturdays between 11:30 AM and 6:00 PM and Thursdays between 5:30 and 8:00 PM. See Auditions for further explanation of our rehearsal attendance policy. Casting The cast list will be posted in the studio, emailed, and posted on the Dance+ production website on Tuesday following auditions. Do not call the studio to inquire about your casting. Again, casting is not up for discussion or negotiation. Casting is subject to change. All cast paperwork and fees must be signed and returned by the due dates. Rehearsals Rehearsals will be held on Thursdays and Saturdays from January 12– February 16. Additional rehearsals may be scheduled for Sundays or Wednesdays during the rehearsal period. Additional rehearsals may occur to accommodate for Guest Choreographers or Guest Musicians. There will be a mandatory rehearsal on Monday, January 21, Cast Meeting on Thursday, February 7 and Studio Dress Rehearsal on Saturday, February 16. Performance week is February 18-23. No absences will be allowed during this week. If a cast member is absent from rehearsal, their understudy will perform in their place. Mandatory Dates 1/10 .....................Auditions 1/21......................Rehearsal 2/7 .......................Cast Meeting 2/16 .....................Studio Dress 2/18-2/23 ............Production & Performance Week
*Once auditions are complete, additional mandatory dates (such as costume fittings) will be determined based on excused absences listed on audition forms.
Very Important: School Closures During Dance+ Production Week Bismarck Public Schools and Mandan Public Schools are closed on February 18 & 19. St. Mary’s High School is closed on February 18.
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Rapunzel - May 17-19, 2019 Auditions Auditions will be held on Saturday, March 2 from 12:30-4:30 PM. Auditions are open to students who have been enrolled and participating in classes at NPD since January 7, 2019. Attendance is required for consideration for a role. Attendance at auditions does not guarantee a role. If you are auditioning for an NPD production for the first time, you will be required to attend a brief meeting prior to the auditions to discuss requirements and to answer any questions you may have. At the time of audition, students will be required to list any specific dates they will not be available for rehearsals during the production period. These specific dates are used for detailed scheduling for rehearsals and costume fittings. Be aware that rehearsals are held on Saturdays between 12:30 and 6:00PM and Thursdays between 5:30 and 8:00 PM. See Auditions for further explanation of our rehearsal attendance policy. Casting The cast list will be posted in the studio, emailed, and posted on the Rapunzel production website on Tuesday following auditions. Do not call the studio to inquire about your casting. Again, casting is not up for discussion or negotiation. Casting is subject to change. All cast paperwork and fees must be signed and returned by the due dates. Rehearsals Rehearsals will be held on Thursdays and Saturdays from March 7- May 11. There will be a mandatory cast meeting/rehearsal on Saturday, April 27, Studio Dress Rehearsal on Saturday, May 4, and Mandatory Final Run-Through on Saturday, May 11. Performance week is May 13-19. No absences will be allowed during this week. If a cast member is absent from rehearsal, their understudy will perform in their place. Mandatory Dates 3/2 ..........................Auditions 4/27 ........................Cast Meeting 4/27 ........................Rehearsal 5/4 ..........................Studio Dress 5/11 ........................Final Run-Through 5/13-5/19 ...............Production Week & Performances
*Once auditions are complete, additional mandatory dates (such as costume fittings) will be determined based on excused absences listed on audition forms.
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SECTION eight: glossary of terms Excused Absence: An absence that the faculty is aware of ahead of time. Missed classes must be reported prior to class time to be considered excused and be eligible for makeup classes. Rehearsal absences must be reported at the time of auditions, only dates listed at the time of audition will be considered excused. Unexcused Absence: Any absence not reported ahead of time. Unexcused absences from class cannot be made up. Unexcused absences can be grounds for removal from a production. Mandatory: Any meeting or rehearsal that must be attended. Missing these will result in a dismissal from the production. Understudy: Person who learns another’s role in order to be able to act as a replacement at short notice. The understudy is required to be at all rehearsals for this role.
Handbook disclaimer The contents of this handbook serve only as guidelines and supersede any prior handbook. Neither this handbook, nor any other policy or practice, creates student/parent contract, or an implied or expressed promise of continued enrollment at NPD. Enrollment with NPD is not guaranteed; this means NPD may terminate a student’s enrollment at any time, for any reason, with or without cause or advance notice. NPD reserves the right, with or without notice, in an individual case or generally, to change any of the policies in this handbook, or any of its guidelines, policies, or practices, at any time.
Changes in policy Change at NPD is inevitable. Therefore, we expressly reserve the right to interpret, modify, suspend, cancel, or dispute, with or without notice, all or any part of our policies, procedures, and guidelines at any time with or without prior notice. Changes will be effective on the dates determined by NPD, and after those dates all superseded policies will be null and void. No individual instructor has the authority to alter the foregoing. Any student or parent who is unclear on a policy or procedure should consult the Director.
questions or concerns Our hope is to provide both you and your student with a safe and rewarding training experience. Any questions or concerns you may have are welcome. Please submit them to us at dance@ northernplainsdance.org or 701.530.0986 so we have opportunity to address them.
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