Class Policies & Expectations

In order to provide consistent expectations and positive learning environment for students, please note the following class policies:

  1. Students will be expected to arrive ready to dance with shoes and dancewear already on. They can come a few minutes early and get ready in the waiting area and use the bathroom if needed.
  2. Dancers need to wear a tank top or t-shirt, shorts, knee-high socks, and dance slippers. Long hair needs to be tied back. New dancers are not required to have slippers, but returning students must. Slippers can be ballet slippers (pink or black) or highland dance ghillies. Dancers also need a water bottle for each lesson.
  3. Parents/guardians are welcome to either drop children off for their lesson or sit in the waiting area (Ashlei Ballet Studio). Parents/guardians do not sit in and watch the lesson as this is a major distraction to participants.
  4. Dancers are encouraged to practice at home at least every other day (I recommend 15 minutes for beginners, 45 mins-1 hour for advanced pre-premier/premier). If under the age of 16, it is recommended that parents/guardians supervise each at-home practice.
  5. Term fees are due by the first day of each term. Late fees of $10/week late will incur.
  6. Semi-private and private lessons are offered to those registered in at least one group class. Private lessons are available upon request and instructor’s availability. Should your dancer need to cancel a private or semi-private lesson, please give as much notice as possible. No shows are charged the full rate.
  7. If there is a storm or power outage, I will let you know if class is cancelled via email no later than 3:00pm on the day of class (or as soon as possible in the case of a power outage!).
  8. As long as students are registered with the Parker School of Dance, they are not permitted to take lessons from another teacher. However, open workshops held through outside organizations are encouraged.
  9. All dancers and families will act with courtesy and respect towards all other students, families, and professionals involved in highland dance (in accordance with the ScotDance Canada Code of Conduct). Failure to do so may result in removal from the classes, in which case no refund will be provided.
  10. Dancers should register as members of the Pictou County Highland Dance Association. Parents/Guardians will be emailed the registration form when it becomes available.