Codes of Conduct

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Students enrolled at SPB must conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful to the school, the staff, and their peers. Conduct must be courteous and professional at all times. Students should refrain from loud talking and boisterous behavior within the School so as not to disturb classes, rehearsals, and office staff around you. SPB reserves the right to suspend or dismiss any student whose conduct or attitude is unsatisfactory. Please respect the expertise and decisions of the school faculty and staff. The following are absolutely forbidden at the School of Philadelphia Ballet:

• Physical intimidation, violent or threatening behavior including but not limited to bullying, harassment, hazing and fighting. Behavior, either verbal or physical, which disregards or demeans the self-esteem of others, is unacceptable and will be grounds for dismissal.
• Possession, consumption, or distribution of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages. Any student found using drugs, or consuming or under the influence of alcohol (including providing drugs or alcohol to another student) will face expulsion.
• Smoking: SPB is a non-smoking facility. Smoking and vaping are prohibited on the Louise Reed Center for Dance grounds.
• Self-destructive behavior.
• Willful destruction or misuse of the School of Philadelphia Ballet or another person’s property and theft of property.

SPB reserves the right to suspend or dismiss students for violations including but not limited to the above. In the event a student is dismissed, payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.

PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Parents are asked to respectfully adhere to the conduct listed for students above. Additionally, please note the following guidelines set forth by the School of Philadelphia Ballet Artistic and Administrative staff:

• Program level placement and casting are at the discretion of the School Director and Faculty and will not be discussed.
• Please direct questions or concerns to the School office.
• Derogatory comments about another SPB student or their family will not be tolerated and are grounds for dismissal from the program.

ETHICS AND COMPLIANCE HOTLINE

At the Philadelphia Ballet, it is essential that we conduct ourselves according to the highest ethical standards that make each of us proud to be associated with our organization.   If you become aware of an ethics or legal violation, or a violation of the School of Philadelphia Ballet Student Handbook, we want to know about it.  You can contact any member of the Philadelphia Ballet staff to report your concern or, if you would prefer to remain anonymous, you can call the ethics and compliance hotline:

• Available to Philadelphia Ballet employees, students and parents
• Operated by a third-party, Lighthouse Services
• Give as much information as you can so that your issue can be investigated
• You can remain anonymous if you wish
• Do not be afraid to report a concern; no retaliation for concerns raised in good faith

Website: www.lighthouse-services.com/philadelphiaballet

• Reporting App: Keyword: philadelphiaballet
  • Detailed app instructions here
• Toll-Free Telephone:
  • English speaking USA and Canada: 855-222-0283
  • Spanish speaking USA and Canada: 800-216-1288
  • Spanish speaking Mexico: 01-800-681-5340
  • French speaking Canada: 855-725-0002
• E-mail: [email protected] (must name “Philadelphia Ballet” in email)
• Fax: 215-689-3885 (must include company name with report)

This hotline is NOT a substitute for routine communications within our organization between staff, parents, and students.  This hotline is an additional communication tool for specific types of situations, and it is provided because we believe that it is good business practice to do so.

Policies and Procedures

ATTENDANCE

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of regular attendance and the commitment of the student to improve and polish their skills and talents. Progress in the program depends upon regular and consistent participation. Students are expected to attend all classes unless formally excused due to illness or other extenuating circumstances.

It is essential that students come to class on time. Late arrival does not allow a student sufficient time to warm up, may cause injuries, and disrupts class concentration. Students more than 15 minutes late to any class may be asked to sit and observe.

INJURIES

All student injuries and accidents in and out of ballet class must be reported promptly to the School office. School staff will document the student’s condition and any medical guidelines for activity. If an injury occurs (either in or outside of class), please do the following:

• Notify the School office immediately so that proper documentation can be made. If at the studios, please notify a faculty or staff member right away.
• Have your doctor email a report on your injury to the School office.
• We must receive written permission from your doctor allowing you to resume classes.
• Please note that tuition will not be adjusted for classes missed.
• Students who are injured are expected to observe class and take notes.

HEALTHY WEIGHT MANAGEMENT POLICY

SPB is committed to supporting the health and well-being of its students. The School staff will not discuss a weight concern with a student who is under the age of 18 unless at least one parent is present, in person, or via telephone. The School faculty may recommend that the student and parent seek a recommendation from a health professional. A student approached with an underweight concern may return to classes only with a physician’s written approval.

CLASSROOM ETIQUETTE 

• Each student is expected to approach class with focus, positive attitude, and the desire to learn. Students should be open and willing to receive and apply corrections given in class and rehearsal.
• If a student leaves class for any reason, they should wait for a pause in the class before returning. If a student is not clear when to reenter class, they should wait for their teacher to invite them back into the room.
• Students should not lean or hang on barres.
• Students may not talk with friends or accompanists during class.
• Students must wear their uniform.
• Students who do not attend class are not permitted to attend and participate in rehearsal that day. However, students should sit and observe the rehearsal.
• Recording classes using cameras, cell phones, or video recorders is strictly prohibited. Cellphones are to be put away once the students are in the studios, prior to class, to allow for adequate time to prepare and focus. Cell phone use is not allowed during lessons.

BUILDING RULES

• Food, drinks (except water), and gum are not allowed in the studios at any time.
• Students are responsible for the disposal of their garbage and are expected to treat the facilities, furniture, and equipment with respect.
• Recording classes using cameras, cell phones, or video recorders is strictly prohibited. Cellphones MUST be turned off and put away prior to class to allow for adequate time to prepare and focus.
• Note that the School of Philadelphia Ballet is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Do not bring valuables into the building.
• Belongings should be placed in the provided storage areas.

SPB’s Teaching Practice

We prioritize the safety, comfort, and well-being of all our students, and we understand the importance of open communication between teachers, students, and parents/guardians.

We acknowledge that dance is indeed a physical activity that often requires tactile cues for proper technique execution. We assure you that we make these adjustments with the utmost professionalism, respect, and consideration for each student’s comfort level and personal boundaries.

We actively encourage open dialogue between SPB families and our teachers regarding appropriate touching in the studio setting. Students and parents/guardians are always welcome to discuss any concerns or preferences they may have regarding physical cueing, and our teachers are committed to accommodating individual needs and preferences to ensure a positive and supportive learning environment for everyone.

Students have the right to decline physical cueing at any time, and we will always respect their choices. School of Philadelphia Ballet’s Principal is available to address any questions or concerns you or your student may have regarding this matter or any other aspect of our dance program.

We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student can thrive and grow as a dancer. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in this endeavor.