ARBOR DANCE STUDIO POLICY HANDBOOK
Welcome to Arbor Dance Studio!
We’re so grateful you’ve chosen to be part of our dance family. At Arbor, we believe in
cultivating strong roots of discipline, joy, and creativity while giving each dancer the
tools and encouragement they need to grow. We’re honored to be a part of your child’s
journey and deeply value the trust you’ve placed in us. This handbook outlines key
information to help you feel confident and informed throughout the year. If you ever
have questions, we’re here and happy to help.
With gratitude and joy,
Lily McGee - Owner & Director
TUTION & REGISTRATION
Registration & Enrollment Fees - A one-time annual enrollment fee of $25 per dancer
($35 per family) is due at the time of registration. - This fee reserves your dancer’s spot
and helps cover administrative costs.
Tuition Schedule - Tuition is divided into monthly payments based on a full session
(mid-August to recital in May). - The tuition structure already takes into account holidays
and studio closures. - Tuition is due by the 1st of each month. - A $10 late fee will be
added on the 8th of each month for unpaid balances. If tuition is unpaid by the last day
of the month, the student’s enrollment will be paused until the account is current.
Payment Options - Tuition can be paid via the Parent Portal using credit/debit card. -
We also accept checks, money orders, or exact-cash payments (receipts provided). - A
$25 fee will be charged for all returned checks.
Annual Pre-Payment Discount - Families who choose to pre-pay for the entire year by
August 31 will receive a 10% discount. Please note this is non-refundable.
Family Discounts - Tuition caps at 7 hours/week per family. - Private or semi-private
lessons are billed separately and do not count toward the 7-hour cap.
ATTENDANCE & MAKEUP CLASSES
Consistent attendance is essential for progress and group preparation.
If your dancer must miss class due to illness or personal reasons, they are
welcome to attend a makeup class of similar level and style.
Makeup classes must be scheduled in advance via the Parent Portal or by
contacting the office.
Missed classes do not qualify for tuition reimbursement.
STUDIO HOLIDAYS & CLOSURES
Arbor Dance Studio will be closed on the following holidays: - Labor Day - Fall
Break - Halloween - Thanksgiving Break - Winter Break - Spring Break - Memorial Day
Weather Closures - If Collinsville Public Schools are closed due to weather, Arbor
will typically follow suit. However, we will confirm all closures via email and our Parent
Portal announcements.
STUDIO ETIQUETTE & EXPECTATIONS
We want every dancer and family to feel welcome and respected at Arbor. To keep our
environment uplifting and organized:
Arrive 5–10 minutes before class to warm up and prepare.
Dancers must wait quietly in the lobby until class begins.
No food or drink in studios (except bottled water). Gum is not permitted.
Dance shoes should never be worn outside.
Label all shoes and dancewear with your dancer’s name.
Cell phones must stay silenced and stored away during class.
No jewelry or toys in class.
Proper dance attire is required. Dress codes can be found under the “Resources”
tab on our website.
Parents and friends may observe from the lobby—no guests inside classrooms.
Please encourage dancers to use the restroom before class begins.
Students who consistently miss class in the spring may not be eligible to perform
in the recital.
LIABILITY & PHOTO RELEASE
By enrolling at Arbor Dance Studio: - You acknowledge the physical nature of dance
and assume all associated risks. - You grant permission for instructors to give physical
corrections as necessary for safety and instruction. - You release Arbor Dance Studio,
its instructors, and staff from any liability for injury or damage occurring at the studio or
related events. - You grant permission for Arbor Dance Studio to use photos and videos
of classes and performances for publicity, social media, and promotional materials. (Let
us know in writing if you prefer to opt out.)
RECITAL POLICIES & FEES
Spring Recital - Our recital is a highlight of the year and a joyful opportunity for dancers
to share what they’ve learned. - The recital is typically held in mid-to-late May. Exact
dates will be shared by March.
Dress Rehearsal - Required for all performers. Missing dress rehearsal may result in
removal from the show.
Costume Fees - Due in November. - Non-refundable, even if a student withdraws.
Parents will be notified when costumes are ready to be picked up - every costume must
be signed out by a parent before taken home.
Tights & Shoes - Families are responsible for purchasing recital tights and shoes.
Requirements will be sent out by March.
Recital Bundle Fee - Due in April, this fee covers production costs and typically
includes: - A recital t-shirt - A digital video of the performance - Program booklet.
MONTHLY CALENDAR SNAPSHOT
August – Classes begin, tuition & enrollment fee due
September – Tuition due, studio closed Labor Day
October – Tuition due, studio closed Fall Break & Halloween
November – Tuition & costume fees due, studio closed Thanksgiving
December – Tuition due, Winter party week, studio closed for Winter Break
January–April – Tuition due monthly, recital routines in progress, recital bundle due in
April
May – Tuition due, Dress Rehearsal & Spring Recital
Summer Session – Runs June–July (registration opens in May)
PARENT-FRIENDLY RECITAL FAQ
Q: Does my child have to perform in the recital? A: Participation is optional, but
highly encouraged! It’s a fun, rewarding way to showcase their progress.
Q: What if we miss class in the spring? A: Regular attendance is very important as
we rehearse group choreography. Students who miss frequently may be asked to sit out
of the performance for that class.
Q: What if we lose our costume or it doesn’t fit? A: Let us know as soon as possible.
We’ll help with reorders or alterations if time allows. Late notice may limit our options.
Q: Can I take pictures or videos at the recital? A: A professional video of the show is
included in your recital bundle. Personal photography or videography is not allowed
during the performance to ensure everyone enjoys an uninterrupted view.
Q: How will we know what tights or shoes to get? A: Tights/shoe requirements will
be posted and emailed in March. You’ll have plenty of time to prepare!
Q: What is the recital bundle, and why is it required? A: The recital bundle helps
cover theater rental, staff, and production costs, and ensures each family has access to
video, shirts, and more. We keep this fee as low as possible to make recital accessible
for everyone.
DRESS CODE
Arbor Dance Studio Dress Code
We believe that what a dancer wears to class should allow them to move freely, feel confident, and support their growth as an artist. Dancewear should be neat, functional, and fitted enough for instructors to observe alignment and technique. While we encourage personal style, attire should never distract from the movement itself.
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR MOST CLASSES:
BALLET CLASSES:
TAP, JAZZ, CLOGGING, LYRICAL/CONTEMPORARY, HIP HOP CLASSES:
CREATIVE MOVEMENT AND INTRODUCTION TO DANCE CLASSES: (AGES 2-6)
We want our youngest dancers to feel confident, comfortable, and excited to move! Their attire should allow freedom of movement while beginning to introduce studio etiquette and class readiness. We also want to make things simple and accessible for parents.
These classes are about exploration, joy, and beginning a lifelong love of dance—so while we set expectations for readiness and safety, we also welcome a little sparkle and whimsy!
Thank you for being part of the Arbor Dance Studio family.
We’re excited to dance, grow, and create lasting memories with you this year!
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