The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
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STUDENT AND PARENT HANDBOOK
FOR THE PROFESSIONAL DIVISION PROGRAM
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
Welcome to The Rock School for Dance Education!
We look forward to the upcoming year and thank you in advance for choosing our School, which shares your values of disciplined pre-professional dance training and academic rigor. The Rock School for Dance Education remains committed to serving your child’s needs for the present and future. The faculty and staff at The Rock School are the first to admit that our students maintain a rigorous schedule. Dedication to work in ballet and academics is vital to the goals of our programs. Our students have high expectations for themselves and our goal is to provide whatever resources are necessary for their success. The goal of The Rock School is to provide an open and supportive environment in which students may comfortably balance their self-expression with what is expected of them. New students will notice the accelerated pace that we keep here at The Rock School. However, new students will also realize that a structured day is a necessity in order to accomplish an education in ballet and in academics. This does not mean our faculty, staff, and students do not enjoy a little spontaneity; we are all interested in keeping spirits high and stress levels low. To do this, we must maintain flexibility, tolerance, patience, understanding, and mutual respect among students, faculty, and parents. The code of conduct, guidelines, and policies presented in this Handbook are written to accomplish these goals. Therefore, we ask that all students and parents carefully read and discuss this Handbook. We also ask that all students and parents sign a consent form (found at the end of the Handbook) verifying they have read, discussed, and understood the policies set forth within the Handbook. Please be aware that changes to this document may occur throughout the year without prior notice. We will attempt to keep you informed of any such changes. We know that you share in our commitment to the arts and personal development of each student at The Rock School for Dance Education and that the upcoming school year will be a fulfilling one. Bojan Spassoff, President and Director Stephanie Spassoff, Director
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Introduction The Rock School Mission
II.
Rock School General Information School Contact Information
Statement of Community
Building Security Procedures and Protocols Inclement Weather - School Closings Parent Observation Weeks Costume Shop and Rental Information Lost and Found
III.
Community Expectations Cell Phone Use
IV.
Rock School Policies and Expectations Reserving your Spot
Use of Electronic Devices Dress Guidelines CafĂŠ Behavior and Expectations Van and Bus Behavior Vehicle Use and Parking Smoking Policy Consideration of Others Sleeping Staff Only Areas of the Building
Level Placement and Advancement Attendance and Tardiness Lockers Parent Conduct Instructor-Student Contact Substance Abuse Policy Withdrawal from The Rock School Disciplinary Process Major School Infractions Suspension and Expulsion
V.
Scholarships, Tuition, and Other Payment Information
VI.
Rock Academics Information, Policies, and Expectations
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Scholarship Information Tuition Payment Agreement Tuition Refund Insurance Plan Payment Terms Student Account Late Payments The Rock Academics Program Mission Learning at The Rock School Description of the Program Administration Attendance Expectations Pacing of Assignments Academic Honesty Keystone Course Policies
The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
Rock Academics-Specific Courses Dance and College Advising Rock Academics Grade Standardized Testing Report Cards Transcripts Academic Honors and Awards Disciplinary Procedures within the Academic Program
VII.
Residence Information, Policies, and Expectations Description of the Program
VIII.
Privacy Policies Collection of your Personal Information
Student Lounge Exploring Philadelphia - Sign-Out Privileges Crossing Broad Street Policy Sick Days Curfew, Quiet Hours, and Room Checks Curfew Extensions Cleaning of Residential Spaces Keys and Locks Residence Meetings Guests Room Changes Personal Property Pets Furniture Removal Maintenance Residential Safety Emergency Procedures Medication Policy Medical Appointments Medical Release Forms Health Insurance Holidays Travel and Transportation Mail Reporting Incidents
Use of your Personal Information Control your Personal Information Security of your Personal Information Changes to this Statement Medical Form Statement of Privacy
Appendix A: The Rock School Code of Conduct Appendix B: Rock Academics Statement of Academic Integrity Appendix C: Residence Packing Guide Statement of Responsibility _______________________________________________________________________________
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
I.
INTRODUCTION
The Rock School Student and Parent Handbook combines dance, academic, residency and school community information and policies. Inserted into this book is a signature sheet for parents and students, which must be signed prior to the start of the school year in September. The policies of this handbook may be terminated, amended, or modified at any time at the discretion of The Rock School. Any questions or comments about the contents of this book should be directed to the School Directors, Headmaster of Rock Academics, or Residence Director. The Rock School Mission - Excellence now and for the future The Rock School is dedicated to enriching the lives of all students and preparing those students who are specially gifted in dance for careers as professional artists. The Rock School remains steadfast in its mission to develop the finest artists for professional companies and, through its outreach program, is committed to making dance more accessible to local communities. Known for encouraging quality academic education as well as for nurturing artistic excellence, The Rock School instills a quality of thought and action that enriches the lives of all the students regardless of their ultimate careers. Statement of Community The Rock School community is based on a philosophy of respect and cooperation. All members of The Rock School community -students, parents, faculty, staff, trustees, and alumni -- are expected to abide by The Rock School’s community standards for behavior as articulated in this handbook and to act respectfully toward each other. II.
ROCK SCHOOL GENERAL INFORMATION
School Contact Information Rock Center Main Telephone Number: Fax Number:
(215) 551-7010 (215) 551-8538
Front Desk
extension: 1100 info@therockschool.org
Rock Academics
extension: 1134 rockacademics@therockschool.org
Residence
(267) 968-9113 or (267) 968-4845 residence@therockschool.org
Rock West Main Telephone Number:
(610) 431-4321
Rock School Website:
therockschool.org
Building Security Procedures and Protocols All parents, visitors, and full-time students (residents and commuters in the pre-professional program) are expected to sign-in and sign-out at the desk in the lobby of The Rock School. To further enhance security procedures during the day, students in the pre-professional program will receive a photo identification badge. This badge must be available in the student’s bag or locker during the day. Full-time staff will also be required to wear school-issued photo identification badges.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
Inclement Weather - School Closings The Rock School’s school closing number is 1007. The Rock School considers the Philadelphia School District in its decisions concerning closings due to inclement weather. The Rock School is not responsible for classes canceled as a result of extreme weather conditions or other circumstances beyond the control of The Rock School. The Rock School’s Facebook page and website will also be updated to reflect changes to the daily schedule due to inclement weather. Parent Observation Weeks Parents, guardians, and relatives of students are invited to view classes during designated Observation Weeks. One full week each quarter is allotted for observation. Exceptions: Creative Movement and Pre-Ballet parents may observe classes at any time outside the door of the studio. Parents or guardians of non-local resident students may request Director approval to observe class on a day not during an Observation Week. Photography and videography are prohibited during class or rehearsals. This includes the use of smart phone recording devices. Photography and video is only allowed after class, during parent observation week, and parents may only take pictures and video of their child and consenting parents. Costume Shop and Rental Information The Costume Shop is located on the 3rd floor of the Rock School. Appointments with the Costume Shop Manager must be made with the Front Office. Students Use of The Rock School’s Costumes At different times throughout the school year for productions such as Nutcracker 1776, students will use The Rock School's costumes. All students will have scheduled fittings that they are required to attend. Costumes used for these performances will never go home with students. They will be available at the theatre for the students to use. Students are expected to take great care of The Rock School’s costumes and keep them on their appropriate hanger, not leave them laying around, not eat or drink in them (except water), keep hands clean of dirt and make-up while handling them, report all needed repairs to the costume shop manager, and help pack costumes up and the end of performances. The Rock School reserves the right to charge families for repairs or replacement of costumes that are mistreated, damaged, or lost. Rehearsal Tutus Students that will need to rehearse in a tutu throughout the school year, especially for Nutcracker 1776 and/or YAGP, are required to have their own rehearsal tutu. Each school year in late September, The Rock School offers families an opportunity to sign up for a bulk order so that every student can benefit from a discounted rate on a top-of-the-line custom fit tutu. Students may store their labeled rehearsal tutu in a special place in the costume shop between uses if they would prefer to not transport them back and forth. Costume Rentals The Rock School has several wonderful classical and contemporary costumes, hair pieces, etc. that are available to our students to rent for different activities such as YAGP. No costumes are to be taken from the costume shop without a signed rental agreement & payment. Lost and Found Lost and found items brought to the Front Office will be held for a reasonable amount of time. If not claimed, items will be sent to local charity organizations. Students are asked to mark all belongings with their names in permanent ink. Valuables and large sums of money should not be brought to school. The Rock School assumes no responsibility for loss or theft of dance clothing, pointe shoes, books, school-issued laptops, electronics, or other personal items that are left unattended at The Rock School building (including the Main Lobby, studios, and academic classrooms), in The Rock School Residence, on school grounds, or on school property such as school vans.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
III.
COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS
Members of The Rock School community are expected to act respectfully toward each other. When students are respectful of other people and their property, serious about their classes and their activities, and safety-conscious, they will rarely come into conflict with our social expectations. The Rock School Code of Conduct can be found in the Appendix of this Handbook. Cell Phone Use Having and using a cellular phone in school is a privilege, which can be revoked by the School Directors at any time. Students may carry cell phones with them throughout the school day but they must be silenced or turned off during Dance classes and Rock Academic sessions unless otherwise specified by a teacher. Phone calls can be made only in the Café, the Main Lobby, or in the stairways. Students may text in the hallways, provided they are not in a scheduled class at that time. Students may not use their phones in the studios or academic classrooms. Students are not permitted to leave classes (dance or academic) to take phone calls. Please be mindful of the time before making or receiving calls on your phone. In case of an emergency, calls to students can be made via the Front Office (ext. 1100). Rock School staff will retrieve the student or relay the message. If a student is using their cell phone improperly, they will first receive a warning. Subsequent infractions will result in the completion of an Incident Report. Students who commit more than two infractions of the cell phone use policy may have their cell phone privileges revoked for a period of time. Use of Electronic Devices Students are prohibited from using ALL electronic devices while in the studio during class time; this includes but is not limited to cell phones, music devices, gaming systems, and video/digital cameras. School faculty reserves the right to confiscate any and all devices during class, to be returned to the student at the completion of the class. Dress Guidelines Students are expected to follow the following dress code in dance classes. Female students: • Creative Movement and Pre Ballet 1 and 2: White leotards (any style), pale pink tights and pink ballet slippers. Short skirts are optional. • Levels 1 through 5: Solid black leotards (any style), pale pink tights, pink ballet slippers and Pointe shoes, if applicable. Skirts may be worn by students in Levels 4, 5 and 6, only during Pointe and Variations classes, at the instructor’s discretion. Saturday is color day. Any color leotard may be worn on Saturdays. • All females must wear their hair away from the face and secured in a bun. Male students: • White tee shirts, black tights, white socks, and white ballet shoes. Students may not wear plastic pants, bike shorts, over-shirts, sweat clothes, or other extraneous or concealing garments during ballet classes. Students with minor injuries may wear close-fitting leg warmers (pink for females, black for males) at barre only. The Rock School reserves the right to dismiss any student for disregarding the dress code. In situations when students are not dressed in preparation for dance class, students must be dressed in a manner that reflects The Rock School’s vision and mission, demonstrates respect for the community, and promotes focused teaching and learning. Therefore, clothing must completely cover the chest, stomach, back, and buttocks at all times. Footwear must be worn at all times. Clothing must not: • Contain writing or images that include direct or indirect references to violence, profanity, sexual issues, alcohol, or drugs. • Include military dress, camouflage or military logos. • Reveal undergarments. • Include halter tops, tube tops, off the shoulder shirts, spaghetti straps, or pajamas. Students who do not follow these guidelines or who do not follow reasonable standards of decency in their choice of school attire may be asked to change clothes, be sent home, and/or receive detention. Repeated or intentional violations will result in further discipline. The Rock School reserves the right to interpret the dress code as needed.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
Café Behavior and Expectations The Rock School’s expectations for behavior extend to the Café. All students and adults must return dishes, clean their tables, throw away their trash, and observe good manners when using the Café. All Rock School students who use the Café outside of defined meal times are expected to work and talk quietly and to keep tables, chairs, and the floor clean and orderly. Van and Bus Behavior The Rock School’s expectations for behavior extend to the time students spend traveling in vans and buses for school-related events. Vehicle Use and Parking The Rock School for Dance Education utilizes a parking lot on the NW corner of the intersection of Broad Street and Washington Avenue. Parents and Commuting students can purchase parking tags for their vehicle at the Front Office. The parking tags must be displayed in the front window of the car. Any car without a Rock School parking tag may be towed at the owner’s expense. Parents and Rock School staff are not permitted to drive students in their personal cars. Rock School Professional Division students may not use cars during the day for any reason without administrative approval. Additionally, Commuting students are not allowed to drive Residents in their cars while on or off campus without appropriate driving permission from parents and Rock School Staff. Smoking Policy The Rock School for Dance Education is a non-smoking facility. In accordance with City of Philadelphia Code, smoking is banned in all workplaces, creating a healthy environment for workers and their customers. The law also prohibits smoking within twenty feet of The Rock School’s building entrances. Please obey posted signs. The Rock School does not condone the use of tobacco products in any way. The use of tobacco products by students (regardless of age) is prohibited in any location during the school day and during any on or off-campus school-related event. If a student is seen smoking at any other time, it may be considered a violation of Rock School policy regarding school actions that tarnish the reputation of The Rock School. Additionally, even outside school hours, students may not use tobacco products within three blocks of The Rock School or The Rock School Residence. Violation of these policies is considered a Major School Infraction (please see the aforementioned section for additional information). Consideration for Others Students are expected to act respectfully towards fellow students, visitors, faculty, and staff members. All members of the community should speak courteously to each other at all times. Abusive, profane, or disrespectful language is not acceptable at any time. Disruptive or distracting behavior in the hallways, studios, Café, or other shared spaces is not acceptable at any time. Given the public nature of The Rock School, students are encouraged to exercise discretion in the manner in which they display affection. There should be no inappropriate displays of affection. For more details on the policies regarding displays of affection in The Rock School Residence, please refer to Residential Safety in Section VII of this handbook. Sleeping Sleeping in the hallways or in any public location at The Rock School is prohibited. If an Academic or Residence student feels too exhausted to meet his or her expectations for the day, he or she should report to the Headmaster of Rock Academics or the Residence Director. Students should not miss class (academics or dance) to sleep. Doing so constitutes a class cut and may result in disciplinary action. Staff Only Areas of the Building Some areas of the building, including offices and stairwells, are to be used by Rock School Staff only. Students are not permitted to be in the Administrative Office area or any staff offices, including the Rock Academics office, without permission. Students are not permitted on any roof areas. Please obey posted signs. Any student discovered in any of the Staff Only Areas of the Building may be subject to suspension or expulsion from the Rock School.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
III.
ROCK SCHOOL POLICIES AND EXPECTATIONS
Reserving Your Spot The Rock School’s Dance, Rock Academics, and Residence programs are filled on a first come, first served basis, with priority extended to re-enrolling students in good standing. Programs have limited capacity and it is important to complete the registration process in a timely manner to reserve a space. Please visit therockschool.org to review the required registration steps. Level Placement and Advancement Each student is placed in a ballet level for the school year. The progress of each student is monitored continuously throughout the year by the faculty and the School Directors, who reserve the right to change a student’s level when appropriate. Please Note: Students do not automatically advance to the next level at the end of each year. Emotional maturity, physical development, comprehension, competency of execution, correct body positioning, and adequate body strength may require additional years of training at any given level, particularly Level 3 and Level 3X. Students completing Level 2 and those emerging from Level 3X must be able to meet certain minimum standards in order to advance at The Rock School. Questions about student progress must be directed to the School Directors and NOT to individual faculty. Final decisions regarding level placement are made by the School Directors. Attendance and Tardiness Students are expected to arrive at The Rock School with sufficient time to properly prepare for the start of their dance classes and rehearsals. In the interest of injury prevention, The Rock School reserves the right to bar any student who arrives for class late from participating in the class other than as an observer. Chronic lateness constitutes grounds for dismissal from The Rock School. Students are required to attend all dance classes and rehearsals to which they are assigned. A student with a minor injury or illness is expected to attend his/her classes and rehearsals as an alert observer seated inside the studios. To minimize absences, parents are urged to take lessons and rehearsals into consideration when scheduling appointments and when planning family vacations. A student will be excused from class or rehearsal only in the case of serious illness or injury or genuine emergency. A student’s absence must promptly be reported by a parent or by the student to The Rock School Office at 215.551.7010 ext. 1100 or via email frontoffice@therockschool.org with the subject line: ATTENDANCE. The Rock School reserves the right to dismiss any student with unexcused absences or on leave from The Rock School for 5 or more class days per quarter. Scholarship students are not exempt from the rules governing attendance. Lockers Lockers in the dressing rooms are available to all levels of students. Lockers are free, but there will be a $10.00 replacement fee if the lock is missing, lost, or damaged. The Rock School will assign all lockers and locks on a first come first served basis. Locks not issued by The Rock School are prohibited and will be removed (cut and discarded). The Rock School reserves the right to open and search lockers if there is a concern regarding students’ safety, knowledge of weapons, contraband (i.e. alcohol, drugs, or drug paraphernalia), or stolen materials are stored in the locker. Lockers will also be opened if the environment of the dressing room is found to be unhealthy and unsanitary. Lockers must be emptied at the end of the school year (June); any items left in a locker at that time may be removed and thrown away. A signed locker agreement is required to obtain a locker, which can be requested at the Front Office. Parent Conduct Students and parents are expected to be polite to one another as well as to Rock School employees. Any rude or aggressive behavior from students or parents will not be tolerated. Any use of offensive language or harassment of Rock School employees will result in dismissal without refund. Parents are prohibited from disciplining another child, besides their own. They are to report any questionable student behavior directly to a Rock School employee. Instructor-Student Contact The Rock School strives to offer teaching that is individual and “hands-on”. It is appropriate for a member of the faculty to manually and physically position a pupil to expound a point of instruction or to pinpoint for an individual flaw in his or her technique. The Rock School neither condones nor tolerates any touching of students by instructors that is harmful, professionally reckless, or that violates generally accepted tenets of propriety. Before enrolling a student, please consider that it is The Rock School policy to correct children 9
The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
with physical contact. If a student or parent/guardian is uncomfortable with this policy, they may wish to reconsider enrolling the student. Substance Abuse Policy The consumption and/or possession of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited regardless of the student’s age or age of a guest. Violation of this policy may lead to immediate dismissal from the Residence and Dance program at The Rock School, as well as being reported to the proper authorities. If you are of age and distribute alcohol to a minor this will also lead to immediate dismissal from The Rock School program, as well as being reported to the proper authorities. The Rock School forbids the sale, possession, consumption, and storage of illegal drugs and/or controlled substances (as defined under applicable federal and state law). Any evidence of the above will result in immediate dismissal from The Rock School, as well as being turned over to proper authorities. Any and all types of drug paraphernalia is also prohibited and will be confiscated and turned over to the proper authorities. Immediate dismissal from The Rock School will follow. Withdrawal From The Rock School A student withdrawing from The Rock School’s Dance program during the course of the school year must provide The Rock School with written notice of the withdrawal at least one week prior to the end of a quarter:November 10, 2014 | January 26, 2015 | April 7, 2015 | June 6, 2015. If postmarked notification or email is not received by the time stated above the student is considered to be continuing participation in the subsequent quarter and full quarter payment is required. A student enrolled in the year-round program (i.e. Residence and/or Academic Programs) is expected to maintain enrollment for the duration of the school year (September to June). Should withdrawal be necessary, The Rock School’s Tuition Payment Agreement and Tuition Refund Insurance Plan (each described in Section V of the Student and Parent Handbook for the Professional Division Program) will enter into effect. Furthermore, the student forfeits their Student Account, to help defray the administrative costs of withdrawing the student from The Rock School’s programs. If a student withdraws from The Rock School for reasons other than those covered by the Tuition Refund Insurance Plan, then the student is held accountable for all remaining payments to the Residence Program, unless or until the student's space in the dorms is filled. Students can maintain enrollment in the Rock Academics program after withdrawing from The Rock School. However, if the student withdraws from Rock Academics as well, then the policies for withdrawing from the Dance Program apply. Course transfer fees up to $100/class may be assessed for those students who choose to withdraw from the Rock Academics program. Disciplinary Process The Rock School reserves the right to discipline students for any infraction of the expectations and policies outlined in this Handbook. Disciplinary action may result in fines, community service, and depending on the degree of the infraction, detention, suspension, or dismissal from The Rock School. The level of disciplinary action is the sole discretion of the School Directors. For students enrolled in Rock Academics or the Residency Program, the appropriate staff will notify parents in writing of any disciplinary problems. Serious offenses (i.e. Major School Infractions) may result in immediate expulsions. Generally, the Rock School Staff will respond to infractions in the following fashion: • First Offense: Verbal and/or Written Warning • Second Offense: Detention and/or Suspension. Parents and School Directors will be notified. The student (and parents) may be asked meet with the School Directors to discuss the situation • Third Offense: Additional Detention, Suspension, or Expulsion The Rock School is not required to provide prior warnings to students and may, in its sole discretion, advance to more severe actions, including immediate expulsion. Major School Infractions Respect for the law, as well as a genuine concern for the physical, psychological, and emotional well-being of all its students, motivates Rock School policies in this crucial area. Major school infractions typically require thoughtful consideration of all issues; therefore, decisions regarding these infractions may not be immediate. 10
The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
• If a student uses, possesses, or is under the influence of controlled substances, unauthorized prescription drugs, abuse of prescriptions drugs, illegal drugs, or alcohol, or possesses drug/alcohol paraphernalia during the school day; on school property; in locations within sight of school property; during on or off-campus school-sponsored activities or programs; or while representing The Rock School in any capacity, the student will be suspended. Any of the activities above will be treated as a major violation not only of school rules but also of state and federal laws. The Rock School reserves the right to require the student participate in counseling and/or drug/alcohol rehabilitation as a condition of that student’s return to The Rock School community. A student who commits a second drug or alcohol-related offense will typically be expelled. • A student may not use tobacco products within three blocks of The Rock School at any time. For the first offense, students will receive a detention and a parent will be notified; a student who repeatedly violates this policy will be suspended and/or expelled. • Violence, threats of violence, possession of weapons or instruments used in a dangerous fashion, and harassment of others are major school infractions and may result in the suspension or expulsion of the students involved. This includes a threat of violence or any harassment that occurs using social media (i.e. cyber-bullying). • Appropriating, stealing, or causing willful harm or damage to the property of another person or of The Rock School, or willfully engaging in conduct that results in damage to the property of another person or of the school, is prohibited and will result in suspension or expulsion. Students will be responsible for any damages incurred. • A Rock Academics student who cheats or plagiarizes will receive a “0” on the work involved and his or her parents will be notified; also, the student may fail the course, be suspended, or be expelled. A second offense will result in further disciplinary action. A student who knowingly abets another student in cheating or plagiarism is liable for the same penalties. • Any student whose actions tarnish the reputation of The Rock School, jeopardizes the safety, order, and discipline, or social cohesion of the community, or whose behavior serves as a negative influence on The Rock School or other students, regardless of where or when those actions occur, including on social media websites, may be subject to suspension or expulsion at the discretion of the administration. • Failure to evacuate during a fire alarm is illegal. In case of a fire alarm, the students must evacuate the building immediately following the posted fire evacuation instructions. Theft or improper use of a fire alarm is prohibited. Tampering with fire equipment, including the fire extinguisher, exit signs, smoke detectors, fire alarms, and fire doors is a serious violation of Pennsylvania Law and The Rock School regulations. There will be a minimum $200.00 fine and probable immediate expulsion of any student found pulling a fire alarm when there is no fire or emergency. • If a student engages in any activity that has the potential or does in fact jeopardize the safety, security, and health of oneself or others, the student may be suspended or expelled. Suspension and Expulsion Every Rock School student is expected to behave in a disciplined, responsible, and courteous manner when on School premises. The School Directors reserve the right to suspend or expel a student at any time whose attitude, class attendance, work habits, overall conduct, or physical fitness for classical dance training is judged unsatisfactory. The Rock School also reserves the right to dismiss any student who has a medical condition that places him/her or his/her classmates and faculty at risk. At the time of suspension or expulsion, the student’s parents or guardians will be notified by the administration and a conference will be scheduled. In the unlikely event that a student is dismissed or expelled, The Rock School will notify the student in question and his or her parents/ guardians. It is the responsibility of the parents/guardians to arrange the student’s transportation home and to provide the details to The Rock School in a timely manner. If the dismissed student is a resident, he or she will report immediately to The Rock School Residence. The Residence Director will outline the procedures the student must follow to properly depart from campus. The dismissed student may not return to The Rock School to visit students or faculty, and the student must return home within 48 hours of expulsion or dismissal. Families are responsible for all transportation fees from the Philadelphia area. In general, the departure procedures for a resident student are as follows: • The student is responsible for packing his/her personal property. The Residence Director will supervise this process. • If the student is leaving in an automobile, either driven or arranged by the parents, he/she will wait in his/her dormitory area until his/her ride arrives. • In the case of a student who is leaving by shuttle or cab en route to an airport, a bus terminal, or a railroad station, it is the parents/guardians responsibility to secure transportation and payment for the student’s transportation. The Rock School is 11
The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
only responsible for seeing that the student is picked up from The Rock School Residence by shuttle or cab. Parents release The Rock School of liability for the child once he/she has been placed in the shuttle or cab. In the event of an expulsion or dismissal by the School Directors, all tuition paid to The Rock School, on behalf of a discharged student, is forfeited by the student. Parents may remain responsible for some/all tuition payments through the remainder of the school year and may forfeit all payments and deposits, as outlined in the Tuition Refund Insurance Plan. Policy Regarding Readmission into Rock Academics If a student withdraws from Rock Academics for any reason, he/she is eligible to audition for readmission to The Rock School the following year. When a student leaves because of academic or discipline problems, The Rock School wants to accord him/her an opportunity to return, provided that exceptional progress has been made in the interim. In reviewing a student’s eligibility for readmission, the School Directors and the faculty consider the following: • The student’s overall record at The Rock School and the reasons for his/her withdrawal or dismissal; and • The student’s achievement at his/her new school, including his/her academic, extracurricular, and disciplinary record. The School Directors have sole discretion to decide whether or not it is appropriate for a student to be readmitted to any program at The Rock School. V. SCHOLARSHIPS, TUITION, AND OTHER PAYMENT INFORMATION Scholarship Information All Rock School students who receive a Scholarship for the school year are subject to The Rock School’s Scholarship Acceptance Agreement. Failure to comply will result in a verbal warning. Any such verbal warning may be followed by complete revocation of the Scholarship Award. Merit - The Rock School offers a limited number of full and partial tuition Merit Dance Scholarships, primarily to students in the upper levels. These scholarships are based on talent and ability and are awarded only by the School Directors. Young Boys - The Rock School is proud to support the training of young male dancers. Scholarships are available to male students, ages 3-11 in ballet levels Pre-Ballet 1 through Level 2X, who show an eagerness and commitment to dance. The young boys scholarship does not include Creative Movement. City Dance - The Rock School’s City Dance program enables The Rock School to identify and train talented students, who meet financial based eligibility requirements. Upon acceptance to the program students receive a full tuition scholarship for as long as they meet City Dance requirements. All Rock School students who receive a scholarship award, full or partial, are subject to a Scholarship Fee for the school year. The Scholarship Fee helps subsidize administrative expenses, necessary to support The Rock School’s extensive scholarship programs. Tuition Payment Agreement The Tuition Payment Agreement is effective for all of The Rock School’s programs (i.e. Dance, Academics, and Residence) for the duration of the school year, which runs from September to June. All dance tuition paid to The Rock School is non-refundable and non-transferable. Dance tuition includes class instruction and select rehearsals. If a student elects to participate in supplementary performances or activities, additional fees may apply. Rock Academics tuition includes: • Laptop computer issued by The Rock School. The computer shall be given to the student for the duration of the school year, but will remain the property of The Rock School. Students are responsible for their issued computer at all times, 24hours a day. The laptop computer must be returned by the student in acceptable condition at the end of the school year. • Five (5) courses from our third-party curriculum providers, academic and technical support, individualized and small-group instruction, Rock Academics-Specific Courses, SAT preparation and transportation, and several social activities for the school year. • Textbooks shall be leased to the students and will remain the property of The Rock School. Textbooks that are not returned or are returned unusable will be billed to the family of the student at fair market value plus a 15% restocking fee. 12
The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
Residence tuition includes a place in The Rock School dormitory and a meal-plan at the Café. The dormitory facility is part of a local condominium complex and includes a study hall, bathroom, kitchen, student lounge and TV. The dormitory facility is monitored by Rock School residence staff.
Tuition Refund Insurance Plan The Rock School’s Tuition Refund Insurance Plan is mandated for each student who does not pay the full Residence and/or Rock Academics tuition in advance, and has a material amount of total tuition due, which is defined as $5,000 or more. • Coverage is mandated for all students who owe more than $5,000 to The Rock School in Residence and/or Academic tuition, for the school year, and do not pay-in-full. • The Tuition Insurance fee is due upon registration, if applicable. • Coverage is as follows. 100% Tuition Coverage Medical Withdrawal 75% Tuition Coverage Disciplinary Withdrawal No Coverage Withdraws or transfer for non-medical or non-disciplinary related reason. Please refer to the Tuition Refund Insurance Plan Brochure, available online and from the Front Office, for further information. Payment Terms Dance tuition is paid in eight installments or annually on a pay-in-full basis. Payments are defined as eight equal installments of the annual tuition rate. Each eighth payment must be received by the second Friday of each payment month (August, September, October, November, January, February, and March). If payment is past due the student may not be permitted to attend class. Rock Academics tuition is paid in eight installments or annually on a pay-in-full basis. Eight installments are defined as eight equal payments. Annual payment is defined as the total annual Academic tuition rate, minus applicable scholarships. Annual, pay-in-full payment is due upon registration. Residence tuition is paid in eight installments or or annually on a pay-in-full basis. Eight installments are defined as eight equal payments. Annual payment is defined as the total annual Residence tuition rate, minus applicable scholarships. Annual, pay-in-full payment is due upon registration. Student Account The Rock School administers an incidental account for all Residence and/or Rock Academics students for certain expenses, including but not limited to, charges at the Rock Boutique, Residential transportation charges, damage to Rock School property, dormitory property, school facilities, or any damage/theft (on or off campus) of the Rock Academics school-issued laptop computers. Parents must deposit $1,500.00 at the beginning of the year (i.e. fee due upon registration, if applicable) and replenish that deposit each payment installment period as necessary to maintain a $1,500.00 credit balance. Accounts may be suspended if credit balances are not maintained. Students participating in both the Residence and the Academic programs are required to have only one Student Account. The Account is shared between programs, therefore two separate Student Accounts are not required. The $1500.00 Student Account shall be refundable at the end of the academic year if there are no damages or returning families may elect to roll this fee over to the next year.
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Late Payments A late fee of no less than $25.00 will be assessed for payments over five business days past due. Students who have overdue payments will not be permitted to attend class. VI.
ROCK ACADEMICS INFORMATION, POLICIES, AND EXPECTATIONS
The Rock Academics Program Mission Rock Academics provides an integrated approach to the pre-professional dancer’s college preparatory academic and dance training. The program fosters a conservatory atmosphere and streamlined schedules complete with well-appointed, technologically sound academic facilities and state-of-the-art dance training facilities. Students experience an individualized and holistic program of premier scholastic and artistic standards. Learning at The Rock School Rock Academics is committed to providing a quality, college preparatory program designed for select students in The Rock School’s pre-professional dance training program. Our academic program blends cutting edge technology with a progressive individualized academic plan to help students achieve a successful balance between their academics and intensive dance training. Chosen for their talent and potential as dancers, Rock Academics students benefit from high-caliber dance training with world-class instructors and choreographers in addition to a strong college preparatory program. Rock Academics’ integrated approach to learning in combination with a nurturing residential life program provides young artists with a supportive environment and the tools they need to meet life's challenges with confidence, self-discipline, enthusiasm, and the highest standards of personal integrity. Rock Academics is an collaboration between The Rock School for Dance Education and two different third-party curriculum providers: The Keystone School and Commonwealth Connections Academy (only available to Pennsylvania residents). The Keystone School is a degree-granting program designed to provide a compelling alternative to traditional public and independent schools. The Keystone School is licensed by the State Board of Private Licensed Schools, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and accredited by a variety of associations and organizations. The Keystone School’s instructional program is designed to meet the individual needs of students, including the unique daily/yearly schedule of Rock School students. Rock Academics meets Monday through Friday, 8am to 10am, and then again in the afternoon, from 1:30pm to 3pm. Regular attendance and punctuality are necessary and expected for students enrolled in the Rock Academic’s program. The academic school day extends from 8am to 3pm. When Rock Academics students are not in a scheduled dance class or eating lunch, they are expected to be in one of the academic classrooms. Description of Program Administration The Headmaster of Rock Academics and Instructors/Tutors (when applicable) work with the students in the academic center to support and supplement their online coursework. All academic and student files remain in secure areas within The Rock School Offices at The Rock School for Dance Education. Headmaster of Rock Academics The Headmaster is the director of Rock Academics and is responsible for oversight of the program’s employees as well as the academic progress of all enrolled students. He/she also serves as the direct liaison with third-party curriculum providers, students, and parents to provide the optimal individualized educational experience. The Headmaster of Rock Academics is responsible for the program’s admissions, marketing/enrollment, and budget, as well as on-going strategic planning. He/she maintains current transcripts, files, etc., for all students, oversees the college application process, and teaches the Career Development seminar. The Headmaster assists in the coordination of student activities/schedules, orientation, Rock Academics commencement, and other special events. The Teaching Associates and/or Tutors The Teaching Associates/Tutors work to support the program in curriculum and classroom needs and attends meetings and social functions on an as-needed basis. The Teaching Associate teaches seminars, assists in the day-to-day scheduling, and supports the students in the program. The Tutors provide one-on-one instruction and targeted small-group learning, where appropriate.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
Attendance Expectations Rock Academics students must be present in the Rock Academics classroom at 8:00am and at 1:30pm every day. Attendance is part of each student’s Rock Academics grade, which is reported on students’ report cards in December and in June. If a commuting student is going to be absent from, late to, or dismissed early from school, it is essential that parents contact the Headmaster of Rock Academics BEFORE 8:30am. If a parent neglects to contact The Rock School when a student in absent, someone from The Rock School will attempt to contact the parents at their home or their place of employment. An Incident Report will be issued for all unexcused latenesses and absences. On the rare occasion when a parent is unaware that their child never arrived at school, and after The Rock School has determined that the student has chosen to remain out of school, the student’s absence will be considered a truancy and an Incident Report will be completed. Students who skip a part of or the entire day of school will serve a partial-day, in-school suspension. The Rock School does not support students leaving early for and or returning late from vacation as this interferes with social, academic, and artistic/dance participation in school. Families whose needs make this imperative should contact the School Director, Residence Director, and Headmaster of Rock Academics before the absence. Prior to leaving, students must also inform the Artistic Staff who would otherwise expect them in class. Attendance at all Rock Academics sessions is mandatory. Only a note (paper or email) or phone call from a parent will excuse a student from school. Outside tutoring and medical appointments should not be scheduled during the school day (8am to 3pm). Students may be excused from Academic sessions, at the discretion of the School Directors and the Headmaster of Rock Academics, generally for the following reasons: rehearsals nearing shows or competitions, dance demonstrations at local schools, or for meeting academic “Benchmark.” This academic schedule is subject to change. If permanent changes are made in the structure of the academic day, students and parents will be notified. Pacing of Assignments Students are expected to make their way through the online curriculum in order. Students should not skip over assignments without permission from their online instructor and the Headmaster of Rock Academics. The curriculum is not designed to accommodate students who like to do assignments at the last minute. Rock Academics staff will assist students in managing their time wisely, help them when they get stuck or confused, and offer tutoring sessions on complex subjects. Like conventional schools, the final responsibility for completing assignments and tasks rests with the students themselves and with their parents. Academic Honesty Academic honesty is a vital aspect to the Rock Academic program. Students should not misrepresent the truth about their progress in their classes on Weekly Academic Updates. Doing so can result in suspension or expulsion from The Rock School. All Rock Academics students must sign a Statement of Academic Integrity at the start of the school year (available in Appendix B). This document is kept in the student’s file at The Rock School. All forms of academic dishonesty – including but not limited to plagiarism and cheating – are not tolerated and could result in suspension from the Academic Program, suspension from dance class or rehearsals, and a 0% on the assignment in question. Repeated serious violations of any kind and at any time in the student’s educational career (including but not limited to academic violations) could result in expulsion from The Rock School. Students who have violate the Academic Integrity document are automatically placed on official Academic Probation, the work in question may receive a 0% in the course, and a letter is sent home explaining the student’s change of status (probation). When the Academic Integrity Violation pertains to online coursework, the third-party curriculum provider is the final arbiter for judgments regarding their academic integrity policy, and cheating on an assignment(s) may result in 0% for the assignment(s) in questions, and may result in failure for the entire course. Keystone Course Policies Courses that are not completed, or not completed according to The Keystone School’s standards, within one calendar year of enrollment will automatically result in a “Withdrawal” (W) on the student’s Keystone transcript and may result in a course failure. 15
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Keystone classes will not “close-out” (that is, students cannot finish the course and get a grade) until each and every assignment is properly submitted and graded. Students cannot skip assignments or ask Keystone to average unfinished assignments into their overall grade. The Rock School is not responsible for any expense or hardship incurred in re-opening student accounts, adjusting course enrollments, or re-enrolling students, nor will The Rock School be liable for any adversity students and families may face as a result of non-completed Keystone courses or withdrawals. These are a Keystone policies; any concerns or questions should be addressed to The Keystone School at keystoneschoolonline.com or 1-800-255-4937. Rock Academics-Specific Courses In addition to providing academic support for the online curriculum, Rock Academics also offers a series of in-house courses including: Career Development, Dance History, Principles of Art, and Philadelphia History: Colonial to 1930 – a history course (these courses are subject to change). These classes are designed to supplement and enrich the online curriculum, and the grades are reported to Keystone and credited, where applicable. Some Rock Academics-Specific Courses, such as Career Development and College Counseling, are required for particular Academic students. College and Dance Advising College Advising The purpose of college advising is to work with each individual student to help him or her seek out the most appropriate choices of colleges or other endeavors for their post-secondary school period. The Headmaster of Rock Academics facilitates academic advising with students and with the third-party curriculum providers, to ensure that students have all necessary information and meet all requirements for the college application process and matriculation into college. High School juniors are required to take Career Development, a Rock Academics-Specific Course. This course is accepted by The Keystone School as a transfer credit and it will appear on the student’s transcript (as an Elective credit). High School Seniors are required to participate in College Counseling, a Rock Academics-Specific Course, during their senior year. All Rock Academics students are advised on a college preparatory path and their academic schedules are determined accordingly. All Rock Academics students are expected to apply to college, even if they have their sights set firmly on a company or on another endeavor. Dance Advising The School Directors of The Rock School facilitate all dance advising for Rock Academics students. Dance advising is administered on an individual basis once per year, although additional meetings can be scheduled at any time by setting up an appointment with the Assistant to the Directors. Rock Academics Grade All students will receive a Rock Academics grade. This grade will be noted on student reports cards and will be determined based on student attendance in each Rock Academics session, daily behavior and cooperation, and workshop attendance and participation. At any time, the Headmaster of Rock Academics should be able to determine if a student is deficient in any of these areas. Standardized Testing Rock Academics students enrolled in The Keystone School do not take the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) or the Keystone Exams. Students enrolled in Commonwealth Connections Academy do need to take these standardized exams. Students in middle and high school normally take the following tests: Seventh Grade:
March/April
Eighth Grade:
March/April
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PSSA Reading & Mathematics PSSA Reading & Mathematics, Writing, Science
The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook Tenth Grade:
October
Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT)
June Eleventh Grade:
October March/April
April/May May June Twelfth Grade:
September October November December May
SAT Subject Test for some students PSAT/NMSQT SAT Reasoning Test/ACT PSSA Reading & Mathematics, Writing, Science SAT Reasoning Test/ACT Advanced Placement (AP) Tests for some students SAT Reasoning Test, SAT Subject Test for some students ACT SAT Reasoning Test, SAT Subject Test, or ACT SAT Reasoning Test or SAT Subject Test SAT Reasoning Test, SAT Subject Test, or ACT Advanced Placement (AP) Tests for some students
Students may take the SAT Reasoning Test (tests critical reading, math, and writing ability) and SAT Subject Tests as many times as they choose. The dates recommended above correspond with the level of preparation for eleventh and twelfth grade students in the Rock Academics program. The Rock Academics program does offer PSAT/SAT skills workshops. The workshops cover SAT content and skills, and also include practice test taking. Although such workshops cannot guarantee a change in a student’s SAT scores, preparation in the workshops may facilitate greater confidence as the students approach the tests. Report Cards Parents will receive Report Cards from Rock Academics twice a year (in December and June). The Rock Academics Report Card summarizes student data from three different areas: (1) Grades from third-party online curriculum providers; (2) Rock AcademicsSpecific Course grades and comments; and (3) Rock School Dance/Ballet comments. Teachers and instructors in these three curricular areas are working in separate and relatively distinct programs. The Rock School cannot determine or overrule any grade that third-party teachers award to students. However, Rock Academics Staff will assist students in navigating and completing all of their online courses. Parents will also receive from their child, via email, a Weekly Academic Update listing their child’s academic “benchmarks” and current grade in each course. The system is designed to help students stay on track and to assist them when they have difficulty with the online curriculum.
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Transcripts Transcripts are generated and determined by our third-party curriculum providers; however, The Rock School assists families with most transcript-related questions when students are applying to college, or transferring from The Rock School to another high school or program. The Rock School reports Dance/Ballet grades and Rock Academics-Specific Course grades to our third-party curriculum providers in order for students to receive the transfer credit (where applicable). The Keystone School and Commonwealth Connections Academy are the final arbiters of information that appears on their transcripts. The Headmaster of Rock Academics can generate Supplemental Transcripts for students applying to college, other high schools, or programs. This document lists the Dance/Ballet grades and Rock Academics-Specific Courses taken by the student as well as the grade earned in the course. Academic Honors and Awards Honors and High Honors A student is given High Honors within the Rock Academics Program for a grade-point average of 4.0 of higher. Honors is awarded to students with grade-point averages between 3.33 and 3.99. The Rock Academics Program includes the following in determining High Honors and Honors: all third-party online courses, all Rock Academics-Specific Courses, and the student's Rock Academics grade. A student is ineligible to receive High Honors or Honors if he or she has earned a C (79.99%) or lower in any “course” during the current academic year. High Honors and Honors are noted on the student’s Rock Academics Report Card in June and on the student’s Rock Academics Supplemental Transcript. Only students who have completed all of their online courses by the end of the academic school year will be eligible for High Honors or Honors distinctions. Rock Academics Student of the Year This award goes to an upper-class student (10th - 12th grade) who best represented the ideals of Rock Academics and The Rock School. The student must be hardworking, respectful, dedicated to dance and academics, and engaged in supporting The Rock School and Philadelphia communities. The Volunteer Service Award This award is presented to a middle or high school student who, during the school year, has assumed unusual social responsibility and who has unselfishly given of his or her time and effort to fellow human beings. The Rock Academics Alumni Award This award is presented to a senior who best exemplifies the qualities of initiative, loyalty, and leadership. Disciplinary Procedures within the Academic Program Detention A student will be assigned detentions as stipulated for various infractions which are not limited to but could include: eating in the hallways or studios, watching non-school related videos, excessive lateness to class, disruptive hallway behavior, dress guideline violations or dance dress code violations, and sleeping in the hallways. When a student receives a detention, the individual issuing the detention will let the student know. During detention, students will either serve in silent reflection or will engage in reparations to the community. The faculty member issuing the detention will be able to request that student’s service first. Otherwise the student might serve The Rock School supervised by some other faculty or staff person. Detentions occur any day of the week outside of regularly scheduled classes (except where permitted by the School Directors or Headmaster of Rock Academics) and last approximately 40 minutes. Failure to satisfactorily meet a detention obligation will result in a meeting with the Headmaster of Rock Academics or the School Directors to determine alternative consequences, which will typically include additional detention and possible suspension. Parents are typically notified after a student has accumulated three detentions.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
Academic Probation (AcPro) High expectations will be maintained for all students to maximize their academic potential. Students are to complete all assignments, participate in class, and demonstrate an overall sense of responsibility for their success. The Headmaster of Rock Academics may place a student on official Academic Probation if the student receives a C-minus or below in any subject/course, does not complete courses in a timely manner, or if his or her overall academic performance is judged unsuitable. Students on Academic Probation lose their sign-out privileges and may be dismissed from dance class or rehearsals and assigned to study halls, at the discretion of the School Directors and Headmaster of Rock Academics. Students who remain on official Academic Probation for two or more consecutive semesters may be dismissed from Rock Academics and/or The Rock School (at the discretion of the School Directors). Academic Probation is a change in status that serves as a necessary reminder that work in one or more classes is tardy and must be completed. It is not part of a student's permanent record at The Rock School and no mention of Academic Probation is ever reported to any other school, agency, or college. Students remain on AcPro until their have caught up with all their overdue coursework. VII.
RESIDENCE INFORMATION, POLICIES, AND EXPECTATIONS
Description of the Program The Residential Program is an integral part of The Rock School’s pre-professional program. It provides: • Living accommodations that are clean, comfortable, and safe. • A supportive, nurturing learning environment that promotes responsibility, citizenship, and independence while students pursue their goals in dance at The Rock School. • A food service program that provides a variety of nutritious and high quality meals in pleasant surroundings is offered by The Rock School Café. Residence Students are provided with a meal plan that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner Mondays through Saturdays, and brunch and dinner on Sundays. The Rock School Residence is located directly across the street from The Rock School. The Rock School occupies one floor, which includes sixteen beautiful, large, studio style apartments, a spacious student lounge with a large television, and a study room. Each apartment has a full kitchen, full bath, laundry room, and is air-conditioned. The Rock School provides each student with a single bed, small dresser, standing lamp, desk, and chair. Please see Appendix C for a list of recommended items to bring to The Rock School. The Residence Life staffs live on the floor with the students. There are security cameras in the hallway to monitor all activity on the floor, as well as doormen/security 24-hours a day. The Residence Director keeps the line of communication open between the students, School Directors, Headmaster of Rock Academics (if applicable), and parents and helps to provide a healthy, comfortable, and above all, supportive living environment for all students living in the Residence. Student Lounge The student lounge is equipped with cable on a large screen television, DVD player, comfortable couches, full kitchen, bathroom, and has a wireless internet service. All movies shown in the lounge must be rated G, PG, or PG-13. Video games played in the lounge must be approved by the Residence Director and will follow the same rating guidelines as movies. The Residents share the responsibility of keeping the lounge clean; each week a room of students is assigned to maintain the lounge area. Students who are assigned to weekly cleaning duty are expected to complete an entire clean-up of the area. During the week it is their responsibility to make sure the room is tidy and everything is neat and put away. If trash needs to be removed they must remove the trash. Students are held responsible for any personal items they choose to leave in the lounge. The student lounge is generally opened after the afternoon dance class or rehearsal, or by request. Exploring Philadelphia - Sign-Out Privileges The Residence is only blocks away from several theaters, restaurants, parks, and shops. Students do have the freedom to explore the city within firmly set boundaries. The Residence Director and Headmaster of Rock Academics work together to plan exciting, educational, and fun events and activities for the students. These activities can include museum trips, a day at the beach, a visit to the zoo, mall, movies, dance performances, theater, arts-and-crafts, and games. All students in the Residence automatically start out the year with Sign-Out Privileges, which allow them to sign out of the Residence when school is not in session for short trips to local food establishments, convenience stores, and pharmacies within firmly set boundaries (referred to as acceptable walking locations). These short trips are not supervised or chaperoned by Rock School staff 19
The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
and they do not require a Permission to Leave the Residence Hall form. The acceptable walking locations are listed on a map available in the hallway of the dorms. When a parent wants to allow his or her child to be outside The Rock School acceptable walking locations, spend the night away from the Residence, or leave the Residence with anyone other than a Rock School Resident, a Permission to Leave the Residence Hall form must be completed. Please understand that a Permission to Leave Residence Hall form must be completed and submitted EACH time the student leaves The Rock School acceptable walking locations, spends the night away from the residence, or leaves the Residence with anyone other than a Rock School Resident This is for the safety of our residents. The Permission to Leave the Residence Hall form must be emailed to residence@therockschool.org. Please send the Permission to Leave the Residence Hall form at least three days in advance of the event. Failure to complete and return the Permission to Leave the Residence Hall form may prevent your child from attending the outing or event. Sign-Out Privileges can be revoked for due cause at any time by any member of the Residential Staff, the Rock Academics staff, or the School Directors for failure to meet expectations, or for failure to abide by all the rules outlined in this Handbook. Please understand that The Rock School is not liable for any harm that may come students, nor is responsible for their conduct, during the entire time that students are exercising their Sign-Out Privileges. Sign-Out Privileges only apply when school is not in session, after 8am, and until floor curfew. Parents can choose to not grant their son or daughter Sign-Out Privileges for the duration of the school year by informing the Residence Director by move-in day. Parents can contact the Residence Director to lift this ban in the future if it becomes appropriate to allow their son or daughter to have Sign-Out Privileges to acceptable walking locations. Crossing Broad Street Policy The Rock School wants to ensure that all of our students are safe and healthy. To this end, The Rock School has developed a policy regarding street-crossing for Rock School Residents. It is expected that all students will strive to abide by this policy as well. At all times, Rock School Residents are expect to be in groups of at least two students when crossing the street between The Rock School and the Residence. If a student is found crossing the street alone and/or entering The Rock School or Residence alone, they will immediately lose sign-out privileges from both locations for a minimum of two days. Students who are at least 18 years old are not required to adhere to this policy; however, it is the hope of all Rock School Staff that all members of the community will choose to honor this policy. Additionally, all Rock School Residents are not permitted to cross the street between The Rock School and the Residence with headphones on or while talking on their cell phones. This rule applies to all students, regardless of the student’s age. Sick Days If a student is sick or injured on a school day and will be miss an academic session or dance class, the Residence staff and Rock Academics staff must be notified, via text or phone call, immediately. Curfew, Quiet Hours, and Bed Check The Residence Director and School Directors reserve the night to change hours. Violation of this policy may result in expulsion from The Rock School. Curfew Curfew times are dependent on the student’s age. Curfew times are extended by 30 minutes in warmer months when it is brighter later in the evening. Students who are 13 or Younger
Students must be in the Residence by 8:00pm every day of the week. This in in accordance with the City of Philadelphia youth curfew laws.
Students who are 13 to 17
Students must be in the Residence by 8:30pm Sunday through Thursday and by 9:00pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Students who are 18 and Older
Students must be in the Residence before bed checks occur.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
Quiet Hours Quiet hours are defined as times when noise is confined to a resident's room and is not audible in adjacent areas. Quiet hours are: 9:30pm - 9:30am on Sunday - Thursday 10:00pm - 9:30am on Friday 11:00pm - 9:30am on Saturday or the night before a holiday. Bed Check Time All students must be in their own apartment at bed check time. Bed check occurs one hour after Quiet Hours begin. Curfew Extensions Students may request to leave campus to spend the night with family, relatives, or family friends with parental permission and signed release form. To do so, parents must complete and submit the Permission to Leave Residence Hall form (available on The Rock School website). By issuing this signed release form, parents are identifying and releasing The Rock School of any and all responsibilities and/or liabilities. Upon receiving the form, the Resident Director and Staff will typically permit the student to leave campus, unless additional details are needed. If necessary, the Residence Staff may need to speak with the student’s parents on the phone. Verbal permission over the phone is usually only permitted for last-minute outings. Curfew extensions are a privilege that can be revoked if abused by a student. Cleaning of Residential Spaces Students are responsible for cleaning their own apartments and providing their own cleaning supplies. The Residence Director and Staff reserve the right to make unannounced room inspections at any time. Apartments and residence furniture must be left in the same condition as date of occupancy. Upon vacating the apartment, any cleaning fees will be deducted from the students’ deposit. Keys and Locks Apartment keys are non-transferable. Residents are not permitted to duplicate keys. Students are responsible for securing their apartment and their personal belongings. Locks may not be changed, nor may additional locks be installed. Students will be charged $100 for any keys not returned at the end of the housing period. Students who lose keys must immediately report the loss to the Resident Director or Staff. The student is responsible for the applicable key replacement cost. Residence Meetings Attendance at residence meetings is mandatory. Students will be given adequate notice of meeting times by the Residence Director. Guests A guest is defined as any person other than those that live in the Marine Club apartments registered to the Rock School; this includes commuting Rock School and Rock Academics students. Guests are only permitted with permission from the resident’s and guest’s parents and with approval from the Residence Director. Approved guests must present ID to enter the building and sign in and out at the Front Desk. Students are responsible for any damages caused by their guest. Guests must abide by all rules and regulations set by The Rock School. Students in violation of this policy are subject to disciplinary action and possible dismissal. Students who attend the Rock School who live with a parent or by themselves in the Marine Club are permitted to be on the floor, in student rooms, and in the lounge. They must exit the floor every night by Quiet Hours. The Rock School is not responsible for these students. These students must follow all residence rules while on the floor. They are not permitted to be used as a person(s) for regular residence students when signing out. Room Changes Students may not initiate room changes. Room concerns may be addressed with the Residence Director. Under no circumstances may a student change rooms without appropriate permission. The Rock School reserves the right to change any student’s room or roommate at any time if deemed necessary by the Residence Director or the School Directors. 21
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Personal Property The Rock School and/or the Marine Club Apartments accept no responsibility for loss or damage of personal property. The Rock School suggests that parents include their student’s belongings in their homeowners insurance. Pets No pets of any kind are allowed in the residence. Furniture Removal No furniture shall be removed from the apartments under any circumstances. Students are responsible for maintaining the furniture provided by The Rock School. Any furniture concerns should be addressed to the Residence Director. With the exception of normal wear and tear, students may be financially responsible for damaged furniture. The cost of any missing furniture will be deducted from the student’s account. Maintenance Any type of mechanical emergency situation (i.e. plumbing, electrical problems, utility failure) must be promptly reported to the Residence Director or Staff on duty. Failure to report broken or damaged items when they occur may result in a deduction from a student’s account. Please inform staff as soon as a repair is needed and Residence staff will report the repair to the Marine Club Staff. Residential Safety Residential students are held to the same standards and expectations as the rest of The Rock School’s student community. In addition to the previously stated policies and guidelines the follow are also applicable to residential students: Security The Marine Club apartment building has front desk security and. security cameras throughout the building. In addition to the Marine Club cameras, the Rock School has its own cameras on the student residence floor. The Residence Director and Staff monitor camera footage. Sexual Misconduct Sexual contact is STRICTLY PROHIBITED. The Rock School considers kissing, fondling, or intimate contact of any kind to be sexual contact and disciplinary action will be taken immediately. Resident students may visit the apartments of other same gender residents. Students of the opposite gender are not permitted to enter each other’s rooms under any circumstances. Residence students of the opposite gender may meet in the student lounge area. Behavior in the Halls No sports, no running, no leaving trash, and no yelling and screaming in the halls. Residents must be respectful and considerate of others. The hallways are community spaces. Vehicle Use The School would prefer that all Residents not have any motorized vehicles either on campus or in the vicinity of The School. If a Resident or Commuting Student has a car, students may not use cars during the day for any reason without administrative approval. Additionally, Commuting students are not allowed to drive Residents in their cars while on or off campus without appropriate permission from parents and Rock School Staff. Sanitation Students are responsible for cleaning their own apartments and providing their own cleaning supplies. Students and Residence Staff share the responsibilities of maintaining clean and healthy shared spaces (i.e. the lounge and hallway).
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
Windows Residents may not sit on windowsills, throw items at or from windows, or tamper with window restrictions. Engaging in loud window to window, or window to ground conversations is prohibited. Fireworks and Incendiary Devices Fireworks or incendiary devices including, but not limited to, candles and incense are strictly prohibited. If these items are being stored or are found in a student’s room, that student will be subject to disciplinary action and/or dismissal from The Rock School. Appliance Policy Hot plates, space heaters, and toaster ovens are prohibited in student apartments. Students may have a microwave oven, coffee pot with automatic on/off feature, any entertainment equipment that draws less than 15 watts per channel, clock, fan, heating pad, portable hairdryer, hair setter or curling iron with automatic on/off feature, and electrical grooming tools. All appliances must be U/L approved and the cords must be in good working order. The Residence Director must approve surge protectors and extension cords. Vandalism or Destruction of Property Students will be charged for any vandalism damages to unit/ common areas. In situations in which the individual(s) responsible for the damage does not come forward to claim responsibility, a group assessment will be levied. The group assessment fee will include the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged item(s) and cost of labor (if applicable.) Gambling Gambling is not permitted. Any students found gambling are subject to disciplinary action and/or dismissal from The Rock School. Solicitors and Canvassers Solicitation is prohibited in the residence halls. Violators should be reported to the Resident Director or Security. Emergency Procedures In the case of a medical emergency, the Residence Director or Rock School staff will immediately contact 911 and then notify the parent(s) or guardian(s) of a minor student. Medical Release Forms completed by the parent or guardian will be given to treating medical personnel, unless the circumstances make it impossible to provide such forms. Drug and/or alcohol consumption will be treated as a medical emergency. Medication Policy As stated in the Medical Form, students may have access to over-the-counter medicines via Rock School staff in the Front Office. Residents will maintain their own prescription medication. Rock School staff, including Residence Staff, will not remind students to take medication nor will The School assume responsibility for any student’s failure to pick-up prescription medications. Students are strictly forbidden from sharing, giving away or selling their medications. Doing so constitutes a Major School Infraction, as outlined in Section III of the Handbook. Medical Appointments When students or parents want a medical appointment scheduled, they must complete a Medical Appointment Request Form. While students and parents are able to make their own appointments, it is strongly encouraged that all appointments are scheduled by the Residence Director. The Residence Director works with a variety of skilled medical professionals who are familiar with The Rock School and the needs of our students. The Residence Director is familiar with the students’ academic and artistic schedules and can schedule appointments at times that are the least intrusive to their schedules.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
Transportation In the event that a student schedules his or her own appointment, the Residence Staff will provide transportation when informed at least 72 hours (3 days) prior to the appointment While transportation is not guaranteed, our staff will transport young students (under 18) whenever possible. Students who are 18 years of age or older, are expected to coordinate their own transportation to and from physical therapy appointments. However, students who are under 18 years of age will receive transportation to and from all physical therapy appointments. Parking Parents must pay for parking required for parking for all medical appointments. It is recommended that students bring cash or credit cards when attending medical appointments. Medical Release Forms Medical Release Forms are required to be on file for all students and the Residence Staff may not be able to assist with medical appointments without these forms. These forms will be made available to any and all treating medical personnel. The parent(s) or guardian(s) of minor students will be contacted prior to seeking medical attention, except in the case of medical emergencies. No student is permitted to begin class without their medical forms submitted to The Rock School. Health Insurance It is mandatory for all Resident students to have valid health insurance for the greater Philadelphia area. Students must have either a health insurance card or a photocopy of both sides of their insurance card on file at The Rock School. Parents and students should consult their insurance policy before arrival to determine whether or not their carrier extends coverage to the greater Philadelphia area. Students should arrive with the name of a network provider doctor, office address, and phone number. If the student’s insurance coverage not include the greater Philadelphia region or if the student is from a different country, he or she must obtain an appropriate health insurance policy valid in the greater Philadelphia area prior to arrival. The Rock School will not assume costs associated with invalid insurance or medical procedures/equipment not covered by the student’s health insurance policy. Holidays All students are required to vacate the Residence during dorm closures as outlined on The Rock School calendar. No students are permitted to remain in the Residence during the Thanksgiving, Winter, or Spring Breaks. If any student is not able to return home they must make arrangements to stay elsewhere as there will be no Residence Staff on duty during those times. Travel and Transportation The Rock School provides vehicle transportation to 30th Street Station, Philadelphia Greyhound Station, and Philadelphia International Airport for scheduled breaks and vacations, as outlined on The Rock School calendar. There is a charge each way for transportation provided by The Rock School. Residence Staff will only provide transportation between 10:00am and 5:00pm. There is an additional charge for any special trips made by The Rock School outside scheduled breaks and vacations. Chaperoned services to or from the “gate” is available for a fee of $125 each way; this service includes having a chaperone wait until the student has boarded his/her flight. In the event of delayed departure or arrival, an additional fee of $25 per hour will be assessed. Transportation arrangements and payment must be finalized with the Residence Director at least one week in advance. The Rock School recommends that minor students wishing to travel for summer program auditions do so in groups of at least four students. Students who need to leave the residence for summer auditions must have a “Permission to Leave Residence” form emailed to residence@therockschool.org at least 48 hours in advance of the trip.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
Mail All Residence students receive their mail at The Rock School Building. Mail sent to Residence students should be address as follows: The Rock School c/o Student’s Name 1101 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19147 Reporting Incidents Students and Staff are mutually responsible for reporting and incidents that occur in and around the residence. Once aware of an incident, students must inform the Resident Director or the appropriate Rock School staff member. An incident report will be completed, which will be forwarded to the School Directors, parents, and any other parties deemed necessary. VIII.
PRIVACY POLICIES
The Rock School for Dance Education is committed to protecting your privacy. This policy governs the usage of information provided by you on Rock School designated webpages; it does not apply to the offline collection of data or The Rock School’s website in its entirety. The Statement of Privacy is found on all of The Rock School’s webpages. Personal information provided by you to The Rock School will be collected, used and disclosed as described in the Statement of Privacy. Collection of your Personal Information The Rock School collects personal information, such as your e-mail address, parent contact information, student data, and payment information. Information collected by The Rock School is used solely for the purpose of billing and completing student registration based on your online purchase. The Rock School is not responsible for the privacy statements or other content on webpages outside of the The Rock School’s webpages. Use of your Personal Information The Rock School and its operational service partners, collect and use your personal information to process billing based on class registration requests. This includes issuing billing statements and invoices, to complete the billing process based on the payment plan selected. The Rock School will also use personal information to inform you of school-affiliated events and notices. The Rock School may contact you via surveys to conduct research about your opinion of current programs or potential new programs that may be offered. The Rock School does not sell or lease its customer lists to third parties. The Rock School may access and/or disclose your personal information if required to do so by law or in the good faith belief that such action is necessary to (a) conform to the edicts of the law or comply with legal process served on The Rock School’s webpages; (b) protect and defend the rights or property of The Rock School including its Tuition, Admission & Registration webpages; or (c) act under exigent circumstances to protect the personal safety of users of The Rock School or the public. Personal information collected on The Rock School website may be stored and processed in the United States or any other country in which The Rock School or its affiliates, subsidiaries or agents maintain facilities, and by using this site, you consent to any such transfer of information outside of your country. Control your Personal Information To stop the delivery of future e-mail notices from The Rock School, you may respond directly to any email you receive with a request to remove you from the mailing list. Security of your Personal Information The Rock School is committed to protecting the security of your personal information. The Rock School uses a variety of security technologies and procedures to help protect your personal information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. When 25
The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
transmitting highly confidential information (such as a credit card number) over the Internet, The Rock School uses a secure payment gateway so your information is protected. The Rock School is a Payment Card Industry Standard Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) organization. Changes to this Statement The Rock School will occasionally update the Statement of Privacy to reflect School and customer feedback. If there are material changes to the Statement or in how The Rock School will use your personal information, The Rock School will prominently post such changes prior to implementing the change. The Rock School encourages you to periodically review this Statement to be informed of how The Rock School is protecting your information. Medical Form Statement of Privacy The Rock School takes great care in protecting medical information of all students. Student medical forms are securely stored at The Rock School and only made available to authorized staff members on a need to know basis. Medical forms are made available to medical authorities in case of emergency per The Rock School’s Release of Claims and Medical Authorization Form. Academic and Residence students’ medical information will be shared with medical authorities as deemed appropriate within the scope of The Rock School’s Care Waiver. All medical forms for the school year session will be shredded and destroyed upon the close of the session. The Rock School will not retain any obsolete student medical information or files. _______________________________________________________________________________
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
APPENDIX A : THE ROCK SCHOOL CODE OF CONDUCT The Rock School community is founded on the belief that young people are building skills for life in an environment where honesty, integrity, and respect are taken seriously. All students are asked to abide by the following guidelines in all of their endeavors at The Rock School: • I will resolve all conflicts peacefully; • I will deal honestly and respectfully with all members of The Rock School; • I will demonstrate stewardship of The Rock School environment. This includes all school property (including school-issued laptop computers), areas and buildings around The Rock School, the residential quarters, and the personal property of others; • I will neither give nor receive unauthorized aid, as defined by my academic teachers both explicitly and implicitly, from any source on exams, homework, quizzes, papers, or any other academic endeavor; • I will abide by the principles of this code and the policies outlined in The Rock School Student and Parent Handbook. The Rock School is a community based on trust. We expect our students to act in a manner that exemplifies courtesy, concern for others, responsibility, and respect for property. The Rock School may take disciplinary action or require the withdrawal of a student for failure to comply with the rules of conduct, or because of disregard of other major school regulations, violations of the law, or lack of parental cooperation. APPENDIX B: ROCK ACADEMICS STATEMENT OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY The Rock Academics community and the larger Rock School community are founded on the belief that young people are building skills for life in an environment where honesty, integrity, responsibility, and respect are taken seriously. The purpose of this statement is to clarify the expectation that all students will demonstrate academic integrity for the duration of the school year. • I affirm that the work in all aspects of my courses, including the work on my assignments and exams, is mine alone, and that any and all submissions for grades, great or small, do not contain copied or plagiarized material from any unauthorized source, including the work of past students, peers, friends, or parents. • Furthermore, when I receive my graded exams or projects back from The Keystone School or Commonwealth Connections Academy, I affirm that I will not share them with other students. I understand that submitting plagiarized answers—or sharing exam or project answers with others—is a violation of School rules and may result in a 0% for the work in question and suspension or expulsion from Rock Academics and The Rock School. • I affirm that my Weekly Academic Updates will be accurate and up-to-date. I understand that any inaccuracies, great or small, on my Weekly Academic Update may be construed as an Academic Integrity Violation. • I am aware that Academic Integrity Violations of any kind are unacceptable and may result in immediate detention, suspension, loss of scholarship, or expulsion from Rock Academics and The Rock School. • I am aware that if I am found responsible for an Academic Integrity Violation that The Rock School will declare the violation to The Keystone School and/or to Commonwealth Connections Academy, as well as to colleges and universities, if asked. • I affirm that academic honesty is both a matter of personal integrity and community accountability. • I recognize that The Rock School has a vested interest in creating and maintaining a positive learning environment for all students. • I recognize that I am encouraged to report Academic Integrity Violations to one of my teachers, either anonymously or in person with the knowledge that The Rock School will shield the identity of witnesses and investigate all alleged violations.
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Professional Division Program
APPENDIX C : RESIDENCE PACKING GUIDE Plan to bring only what you will need, as space is limited. Roommates may want to confer with each other so they do not bring extra items. Some items can be purchased after the student’s arrival; students are transported to Target the day after they arrive, and on a weekly basis thereafter. All Rock School Residence Rooms come furnished with: • Twin sized beds, dressers, desks, chairs, and lamps • A dishwasher, garbage disposal, and a full-size refrigerator with a freezer • A washer and dryer Things to bring Bedding • Twin bedsheets (regular length) • Blankets • Comforters • Pillows Toiletries • Towels, wash cloths, and hand towels • Containers for make-up, jewelry, hair items, etc. • Hairbrush, combs • Cleansers and other personal products • Shampoo and conditioner • Toothpaste and toothbrush Small Appliances • A microwave • A toaster (Toaster Ovens are not permitted) • TV and DVD player • Please note: Cable is not permitted in student rooms. It is provided in the Student Lounge. • Alarm clock • Hair dryer, curling iron, etc. • Headphones Clothes and Shoes • Summer and winter clothing • Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes • Boots for wet, snowy days • A warm winter coat • Gloves, hat, and scarf • Umbrella • Bathrobe • Slippers • Dance attire (see Section III for Dress Guidelines) Miscellaneous Items: • Dishwasher and microwave-safe glasses, plates, cups, bowls, and silverware • Trash cans for the kitchen and the bathroom • Hangers • Throw rugs for tile kitchen and bath • Vacuum Cleaner • Cleaning supplies for the kitchen, bathroom and laundry room • Trash bags and light bulbs • Scientific Calculator (TI-83 or TI-84 are recommended) • Notebooks or Binders
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The Rock School for Dance Education | Student and Parent Handbook
Statement of Responsibility Please sign and return this page to the Front Office The Rock School Student and Parent Handbook combines important school and community information and policies. Students attending The Rock School are expected to behave in a disciplined, responsible, and courteous manner while attending The Rock School. Persons unwilling or (due to pre-existent injury or chronic illness) unable to fully commit themselves to the daily regimens, to maintain work habits appropriate for a serious student, or to conform to reasonable and accepted standards of discipline are advised not to apply for enrollment. Students must be developmentally and physically capable of participating in all classes without assistance. The Rock School reserves the right to immediately dismiss any student from the program(s) whose attitude, class attendance, work habits, interrelations with fellow students and school staff, or overall behavior is in violation of: • The Rock School Student and Parent Handbook policies.
• The rules governing The Rock School’s Showcases. • Behavior that violates The Rock School Code of Conduct • Local, State, or Federal laws.
HANDBOOK AFFIRMATION
I, ___________________________________________ (print your name), have read the The Student and Parent Handbook and I understand what is expected of me as a member of The Rock School community. I affirm that I will strive to abide by these principles as guidelines for conduct in all my endeavors.
_____________________________________________ Student Signature
__________________ Date
I, ____________________________________________ (print your name), have read The Student and Parent Handbook and the information printed above. I understand and have discussed with my child that s/he will be expected to conduct her/himself in a disciplined manner while enrolled in The Rock School Dance Program, Rock Academics Program and/or Residence Program. I grant The Rock School permission to act on my behalf in safeguarding my student(s) health and safety. I understand that all Dance, Residence and Academic fees paid to The Rock School on behalf of student(s) are forfeited by the student(s) if and when he or she is dismissed from the Dance, Academic and/or Residence Program. I understand I am responsible for all applicable fees, as outlined in the Tuition Payment Agreement.
______________________________________________ Parent Signature
This completed form is required to complete registration.
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__________________ Date