Student Etiquette

The Hirschl School of Dance Arts: Lesson Etiquette

Common-sense tips to keep lessons efficient:

Our goal is having all students get the most of each lesson.

1. Always get to the studio 10 to 15 minutes before your lesson begins. Being early will help you prepare physically and mentally. Have the correct clothing and shoes ready, and hair up in a proper fashion for the type of dance you take.

2. Act accordingly at all times when at the studio. It will create the proper atmosphere to learn- for you, and everyone else. We have the right to dismiss you from the lesson, even to leave the studio facility, if you are being disruptive or disrespectful.

3. The best way to progress is to focus on the lesson, and not be distracted. Treat the art with respect and reverence, and it will reward you by allowing you to improve.

4. Do not disturb teacher or students during any lesson.

5. If a student must leave early, the teacher must be notified prior to the beginning of the lesson.

6. Fulfill restroom and drink functions before the lesson begins.

7. All observers must watch from the lobby area unless otherwise noted (direct observation week, for instance). Direct observation is a distraction to the teacher and students.

8. If you need to speak with the teacher, leave a note in the box, call, or arrange an appointment to meet at a mutually convenient time. Do not try to catch a teacher in-between lessons.

9. Set importance on regular attendance. Missing lessons will create gaps in your training causing a disturbance in the flow of the educational process for you. Then the teacher will have to choose: slow the rest of the class to backtrack to show you the missed steps, or continue with the lesson, having you miss an important part of the art. Either way, someone loses out when you miss a lesson.

10. Become the “dance student” the moment you step foot on the dance floor. Leave all the socializing and all other issues outside of the classroom.

11. If you do have to miss a lesson, they must be excused in advance. There are no make up lessons for unexcused absences. You can write it in the excused section in the black information book, by calling the studio, or by e-mail.

Commitment and dedication will be rewarded by a fulfilling dance experience.

Attending lessons is a privilege, not a right.