Considerate, respectful behavior is expected of HPSD students at all times, both inside and outside of the studio. At the end of each class, it is courteous to thank the accompanist and the instructor. A simple thank you to the many volunteers who work hard behind the scenes is also always much appreciated. A positive attitude and considerate demeanor are critical during rehearsals, which can be stressful and complicated, and are essential to delivering a high quality performance.

Attendance
All students should plan to arrive no more than 15 minutes before class and sit quietly until class begins. They are expected to wear the proper attire and be ready to dance when they enter the studio. All students are encouraged to attend class regularly. Only regular attendance can ensure maximum growth during the course of the year. Excessive absences hinder the individual student as well as the class as a whole. Students must notify the HPSD office and their instructor in advance of expected absences in order for an absence to be excused. Parents may request an excused absence via email (admin@hydeparkdance.org) or via phone (773-493-8498).  Youth company dancers (TNG, TNGT, and TJ members) must also email the artistic director team at artisticteam@hydeparkdance.org to request an excused absence in addition to following the steps outlined above.

Make-up Classes
Students may make-up up to three absences per enrolled class by attending another class at the same level or at a lower level. Make-up classes must be scheduled in advance with the HPSD office by emailing admin@hydeparkdance.org or calling 773-493-8498, and must be made up during the same session in which the excused absence took place.

Tardiness
Students who are late should enter the studio quietly and will be asked to sit out altogether if they miss a significant part of the class. Students in Ballet I and above who arrive in class after pliés are finished will not be allowed to take class but must sit on the side and watch. This policy is strictly enforced to safeguard students against injury that results from improper or inadequate warm-up of the muscles.

Rules of the Barre
Students are expected to:

• Treat others with kindness and courtesy.
• Respect other people’s persons and possessions.
• Listen to the instructors.
• Explore their own creativity.
• Develop a healthy sense of competition, while supporting one another.
• Attend classes regularly in order to ensure maximum growth during the year.
• Discover the benefits of contributing to the community through performances and volunteering.
• Leave host facilities in the same or better condition than when they found them.