Attendance & Preparedness

• Notify the studio: Contact Ballet Taos at 575-779-9128 prior to class if you will be absent or late.

• Arrive early: Get to class no more than 15 minutes ahead of time to stretch. Parents please be prompt for pick-up.

• Preparedness matters: Arrive focused, warmed up, and ready to learn — your body is your instrument.

• Use the restroom before class: Go before class to minimize disruptions.

Dress Code & Appearance

• Hair: Hair must be secured away from the face at all times. For ballet, a secure bun is required; ponytails may be allowed for other styles like modern.

• Dress Code: Wear compliant dance wear, (see dress code below) Avoid visible undergarments and bare legs.

• Shoes: Wear appropriate dance shoes. No street shoes are allowed in the studio. Pointe students need two pair.

• Jewelry: For safety, no jewelry.

• Hygiene: Keep dance wear clean and launder it after each wear. Older students should use deodorant.

Cell Phones & Cleanliness

• Cell phones: Must be turned off or silenced and stored away during class.

• Cleanliness: Keep the studio, dressing rooms, and personal spaces clean. Dispose of trash properly.

• Respect shared spaces: Leave the studio as you found it — clean, organized, and ready for the next class.

Property & Theft Policy

• All personal belongings should be labeled and kept in designated areas.

• Ballet Taos is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

• Any act of theft, vandalism, or deliberate damage to studio property or another person’s belongings will result in immediate disciplinary action, which may include suspension, dismissal from the studio, and/or legal consequences.

Studio Conduct, Behavior & Anti-Bullying Policy

Ballet Taos is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and families.

Zero Tolerance Policy

• Bullying, intimidation, harassment, or exclusion of any kind will not be tolerated.

• This includes verbal, physical, emotional, or online behavior that causes harm, fear, or distress to another person.

• Any student engaging in bullying or intimidation will face immediate disciplinary action, which may include suspension or dismissal without refund.

Expected Behavior

• Respect: Treat instructors, staff, and peers with kindness and professionalism at all times.

• Integrity: Support one another — celebrate others’ successes and show empathy in challenges.

• Conduct: Maintain positive behavior. No gossip, foul language, or negative talk will be tolerated.

• Focus: Listen attentively, follow instructions, and remain engaged in class.

• Accountability: Students are responsible for their actions and words both inside and outside the studio.

Reporting Concerns

• Students and parents are encouraged to report any incidents of bullying, intimidation, or inappropriate behavior directly to the Director or a trusted faculty member.

• All reports will be handled confidentially and promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of every student.

Payments & Withdrawals

• Payment: Tuition must be paid on time by the first class of each month. Installments may be made by money order, check, or via ZEFFY through our website (ballettaos.com).

• Checks: Make checks payable to Ballet Taos Inc. and include your child’s full name in the memo line. Returned check fee $15

• Withdrawals: Withdrawals require written notice in advance. Monthly billing continues until the official withdrawal is processed.

• Refunds: There are no refunds for missed classes if the studio was open. Registration and other fees are non-refundable.

• Late fees: Late payments may incur additional charges after the 15th. Continued nonpayment may result in suspension from classes.

Communication & Conferences

• Conferences can be scheduled by appointment only with both the teachers and the Director.

• Call 575-779-9128 to schedule a private appointment.

• Teachers are not available after class as they often have another class to teach.

• Ballet Taos values open communication.

Inclement Weather

• In bad weather, call 575-779-9128 for updates.

• Ballet Taos will send email or text notifications.

• Taos Municipal School closures will be followed.

• Canceled classes will be rescheduled promptly. Parents and students should prioritize safety.

Placement & Observation

• Students may stay in a class level for more than a year for optimal development.

• Placement considers physical ability, mental readiness, and maturity. .

• Evaluations are provided for students in Levels III–VI each semester.

• Evaluations help determine promotion to the next level, summer program placement, and pointe eligibility.

• Parents can request conferences to discuss progress.

• Parents are welcome to observe classes on the last class of each month.

• Please avoid peeking during class to prevent distraction.

Private Lessons & Coaching

• Private lessons and coaching for Youth America Grand Prix, auditions, and other events must be scheduled through the Director, Megan Yackovich, to avoid conflicts with classes and rehearsals.

• Fees are paid directly to the teacher after the lesson.

• Rates: $25 for 1 hour.

Consequences for Non-Compliance

If a student or parent fails to comply with Ballet Taos policies or this contract, the following steps may occur:

1. Two verbal or written warning.

2. Meeting with a Director, instructor, student, and parents/guardians.

3. Signed behavioral or parent supervision contract.

4. Temporary suspension from class, rehearsal, or performance participation.

5. Dismissal from Ballet Taos programs without refund.