DANCIN' AROUND DANCE STUDIO POLICY/HANDBOOK
Welcome to Dancin’ Around Dance Studio, LLC. We offer classes in Munster, Indiana; and Blue Island, Illinois. We hope that you will find the following information helpful and that your child will enjoy his/her classes in the months ahead.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Dancin’ Around Dance Studio is a structured, recreational dance program that runs on a 10-month season (August through May), offering quality instruction in a positive, supportive environment. Our mission is to help dancers of all ages and abilities develop strong foundational skills, creativity, and confidence—while fostering a true love for dance.
We believe that dance is both an art form and a discipline, and every student has the opportunity to grow not only as a dancer but also as a person. Whether your child is dancing for fun, for fitness, or for personal growth, we strive to make their experience enriching and enjoyable.
Our instructors are highly trained professionals who are passionate about teaching and committed to each dancer’s success. Through structured classes, age-appropriate techniques, and consistent encouragement, students are taught to value:
-
Appearance – Dressing appropriately for class
-
Attitude – Maintaining a positive and respectful mindset
-
Attentiveness – Staying focused and engaged in the learning process
These qualities help build respect for both the instructor and fellow dancers, while also reinforcing self-discipline and teamwork.
We also believe in the importance of performance experience. Our annual showcases give students a chance to experience what it’s like to be a performer—learning stage presence, teamwork, and preparation while celebrating their accomplishments with family and friends.
At Dancin’ Around, our primary goal is to help every dancer feel successful, supported, and inspired.
CLASS STRUCTURE & ATTENDANCE POLICIES
1. Class Structure
Each class at Dancin’ Around Dance Studio is carefully structured to support student growth in flexibility, technique, and choreography. Our instructors follow a consistent format to help dancers build strong habits and stay engaged.
Typical Class Format
-
Warm-Up (10–15 minutes): Stretching and mobility to prepare the body
-
Technique & Skill Development (20–30 minutes): Exercises and drills appropriate to the class level
-
Choreography or Combinations (15–30 minutes): Learning and practicing movement phrases or performance routines
Class durations range from 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the class type and level. Classes are capped at appropriate student-to-instructor ratios to ensure personalized attention.
2. Attendance & Tardiness Policies
Consistent attendance and punctuality are vital for progress and team success—especially in preparation for performances.
Attendance Policy
-
If your child will be absent, please notify the studio in advance.
-
One make-up class may be permitted per month at the instructor’s discretion.
-
No refunds will be issued for missed classes.
Students with excessive absences may fall behind and risk losing recital eligibility. Participation in the annual showcase is a privilege based on attendance and classroom effort.
Tardiness Policy
-
Students arriving more than 10 minutes late to class must sit and observe for safety reasons.
-
The beginning of class includes warm-up exercises necessary to prevent injury.
-
Chronic tardiness may affect a dancer’s ability to perform in the recital.
Late Pickup Policy
-
A 10-minute grace period is allowed after class dismissal.
-
A $5 late fee will be charged for every 5 additional minutes a student remains without a guardian.
-
This fee must be paid directly to the instructor or will be added to your account.
CLASS LEVELS & PLACEMENT
To ensure every dancer is placed in the most appropriate class for their age and ability, Dancin’ Around Dance Studio follows a three-level structure. This helps students progress safely, confidently, and at their own pace.
Level Structure
-
Pre-School - Ages 2-4: Intro to dance, no experience needed - just bring joy!
-
Beginners/Minis - Ages 5-8: Perfect for beginners in grades 5–8, this class introduces foundational dance skills, rhythm, and coordination in a fun, supportive environment—no experience needed
-
Level 1 – Beginner: For dancers ages 8 & up with little to no prior experience
-
Level 2 – Intermediate: For dancers with foundational technique and class experience
-
Level 3 – Advanced: For experienced dancers demonstrating strong technique, retention, and performance ability
-
Adult - Adult classes are for ages 18 and up, offering a private, judgment-free space to dance at any level—beginner to advanced. No experience required.
Dancers may remain in the same level for multiple sessions as they continue to build strength, flexibility, and confidence. Progress is based on physical readiness, classroom focus, and instructor recommendation—not age or length of time in class.
Progress Evaluations
Instructors evaluate each student at the end of each session to determine class placement for the following term. These evaluations are designed to ensure dancers continue learning at a pace that is appropriate and safe.
Advancing too quickly can lead to frustration or injury, so our instructors take great care when making placement decisions. We want every dancer to feel confident, successful, and well-supported in their journey.
PRACTICING
Consistent practice outside of class is essential to a dancer’s growth. While we understand that dancers may only attend class a few times a week, building flexibility, strength, and confidence requires additional effort at home.
Flexibility & Stretching
Flexibility is a key foundation of dance. Stretching daily—even while watching TV, doing homework, or relaxing—can help maintain and improve range of motion. You don’t need a studio space to stretch; just a safe area at home is enough.
Technique & Review
Dancers are encouraged to review choreography, terminology, and techniques they’ve learned in class. Practicing familiar steps between classes helps students retain material and be better prepared to learn new content.
Safety Reminder
Do not attempt new or advanced movements at home without instructor supervision. Some exercises may require spotting, proper flooring, or professional guidance to prevent injury.
BEHAVIOR & OBSERVATION POLICY
Parent Observation
To maintain a focused learning environment, parents are welcome to observe through the designated viewing window but are not permitted inside the classroom during instruction.
For safety, a parent or guardian must remain on-site for students under the age of 5 in case of emergency or instructor need.
Student Behavior
While our classes are fun and encouraging, dance is a disciplined art. Students are expected to be respectful, follow instructions, and contribute positively to the class environment.
If disruptive behavior becomes ongoing, the student may be temporarily removed from class until they are ready to return and participate appropriately.
STUDIO POLICIES
All students must wear proper attire and shoes for their class style. Approved class attire will be provided at registration. Students will not be permitted to participate without the correct clothing and footwear.
-
Hair must be pulled back neatly in a bun or ponytail, away from the face.
-
No hard-sole shoes, marking shoes, or street shoes are allowed on the dance floor.
-
Students may be dismissed from class if they are not properly dressed.
Food & Drink Policy
No gum, candy, food, or soda is allowed in the dance studio.
Only water is permitted and must be kept in a designated area.
Bottled water is available for purchase at the studio.
Behavior Expectations
Students are expected to maintain respectful behavior at all times.
Horseplay, foul language, and disruptive conduct will not be tolerated.
Dancin’ Around reserves the right to remove any student from class if behavior policies are not followed.
Cell Phone Policy
Cell phones must be turned off and stored away during class time. Students are not permitted to use phones while in class unless directed by an instructor.
Weather Closures
The studio may close due to hazardous weather conditions, including snow or ice. Please check before coming to class:
A voicemail update will be posted on the studio line at least 45 minutes before class time.
Dancin’ Around does not always follow local public school closures.
No make-up classes will be offered for weather-related cancellations.
Waiting Area & Pickup Policy
A parent or legal guardian is required to wait on-site for students under the age of 5 during class.
There is a 10-minute grace period after class ends. After that, a $5 late fee will be charged for every additional 5 minutes the child remains at the studio without a guardian.
This fee is to be paid directly to the instructor at pickup or will be added to your tuition account if unpaid.
TUITION, PAYMENT PLANS & ENROLLMENT POLICIES
At Dancin’ Around Dance Studio, we are committed to providing an affordable and flexible recreational dance program for all families. Please review the following tuition and enrollment policies carefully.
Tuition Schedule & Sessions
Our program is divided into three sessions:
-
Full Sessions: August through May
-
Fall Session: August through December
-
Spring Session: January through May
Tuition is calculated based on the full session and remains the same each month, regardless of:
-
The number of weeks in a given month
-
Studio closures due to holidays or weather
-
Student absences
All tuition is billed per session, not per class.
Payment Plans & Deposits
We offer affordable payment plan options for your convenience.
-
A 10% deposit of your total tuition is required to enroll in a payment plan.
-
Payment plans can be selected during online checkout.
-
A $25 NSF (non-sufficient funds) fee will be applied to any declined or failed auto-withdrawals.
-
All tuition balances must be paid in full at least one month before the session ends in order to remain eligible for classes and participation in showcases.
Processing Fees & Refund Policy
-
A 7% registration/processing fee is applied to your total at checkout.
-
All fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, including:
-
Tuition
-
Registration and processing fees
-
Costume fees
-
Showcase/recital fees
-
Tickets and merchandise
-
What Tuition Does Not Include
The following items are not included in tuition and may be billed separately:
-
Class attire and dance shoes
-
Dance portraits or video orders
-
Recital/showcase tickets
Students must have an account in good standing to attend class or participate in performances.
Class Size & Minimum Enrollment
Classes are designed for groups of 4 or more students. If enrollment falls below this number, the following policies apply:
-
2–3 students: Class time will be reduced by 15 minutes
-
1 student: Class will be canceled and may be rescheduled or reassigned at the instructor’s discretion
We reserve the right to cancel, combine, or adjust any class based on enrollment.
CLASS TRANSFERS OR WITHDRAWALS
When you register for a session that includes a recital or showcase, you are committing to the full program—both in participation and payment.
Changing Classes (Transfers)
If you need to switch to a different class, we allow a few changes, but repeated moves will include a fee:
-
First change: Free
-
Second change: $25 fee
-
Third or fourth change: $35 fee each
Transfer fees will be added to your account and must be paid with your next tuition payment.
Dropping or Withdrawing from a Class
If you decide to drop out of a class after registering:
-
You are still responsible for paying the full tuition amount for the session.
-
If you drop after the third week of the session, a $50 withdrawal fee will be added to your account.
Please note: All payments made toward tuition, registration, costumes, and participation fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, even if you withdraw.
PROPER CLASS ATTIRE
All students must wear proper attire and shoes for each class. Hair must be pulled back securely in a bun or ponytail. Students not dressed appropriately may be asked to sit out of class.
Please review the required attire below and follow the guidelines carefully. Direct links for recommended items are provided for your convenience.
What Each Class Requires
-
Pre & Beginning Ballet / Tap / Jazz: Pink leotard, pink tights, pink ballet shoes, black tap shoes and/or black jazz shoes
-
Ballet I–III: Black leotard, ballet wrap skirt (optional), pink or black ballet shoes, tights
-
Jazz I–III: Black leotard, jazz pants or shorts, black jazz shoes, skin color tights
-
Tap I–III: Black leotard, jazz pants, black tap shoes, skin color tights
-
Hip-Hop: Black leotard, black pants or shorts, white socks, white gym shoes
-
Pom Pons: Black leotard, white pom skirt or shorts, white socks, white gym shoes, white poms
-
Acro / Tumbling: Any color leotard, dance shorts, barefoot or gymnastics shoes
-
Boys’ Classes: Solid color t-shirt, black dance pants or shorts, gym shoes
-
Adult Classes: Ask your instructor for specific attire
LINKS TO AMAZON:
-
Leotards
-
Tights
-
Ballet Shoes
-
Black Tap Shoes
-
Black Jazz Shoes
-
Hip Hop Shoes
SHOWCASE POLICY & EXPECTATIONS
Dancin’ Around Dance Studio holds two annual showcases: one in December (Christmas Showcase) and one in May (Spring Showcase). These performances allow dancers to demonstrate their progress, gain stage experience, and celebrate their hard work.
Participation is mandatory for all dancers enrolled in full or half sessions.
1. Participation & Rehearsal Requirements
All students participating in a showcase must attend all scheduled dress rehearsals. These rehearsals are essential for learning stage direction, building group confidence, and ensuring a successful performance.
Students who miss rehearsals may not be permitted to perform. We appreciate your commitment to teamwork and preparation.
2. Showcase Fees (Per Student)
A non-refundable performance/participation fee of $160 per showcase (plus processing fee) will be added per student.
Christmas Showcase Fee Includes:
-
Dress rehearsal
-
Group portrait session
-
One recital t-shirt
-
Link to professional video
-
Snacks and drinks on show day
Spring Showcase Fee Includes:
-
Dress rehearsal
-
Group portrait session
-
One recital t-shirt
-
Link to professional video
-
Snacks and drinks on show day
-
Student award (if applicable)
3. Tickets & Seating Policy
Showcase tickets go on sale 2–4 weeks prior to the event.
-
Ticket range: $25.00–$48.00 per person during pre-sale
-
At-the-door tickets: Additional $5.00 per ticket
-
Children 3 and under: Free admission as lap seaters only
(This policy will be strictly enforced.)
4. Arrival & Drop-Off Instructions
All dancers must arrive at the venue 1.5 to 2 hours prior to showtime.
-
Drop off is at the designated stage door. Parents are not permitted beyond this point.
-
Parent volunteers and staff will be available to assist students.
-
Students must remain backstage for the entire duration of the show unless emergency or pre-approved early dismissal is requested in writing and approved by the director.
5. Costume & Packing Guidelines
Dancers should arrive fully dressed in their first performance costume.
-
Additional costumes, shoes, and accessories must be packed in a labeled garment bag.
-
Do not bring items in plastic bags or shopping bags, as they may get lost or damaged.
-
Label all costumes, shoes, and accessories with your child’s name.
After the show, students will be dismissed through the same stage door to their parents or guardians.
COSTUMES
Costume fees are included in your tuition. Costumes are selected and ordered by the studio; parents are not involved in the costume selection process.
Sizing & Ordering
Students will be measured during class by their instructor. Based on those measurements, the instructor will determine the appropriate size to order. If a sizing error occurs due to a studio mistake, we will handle any necessary replacements at no additional cost to the parent.
If a parent specifically requests a different size and it turns out to be incorrect, the parent will be responsible for covering the cost of a replacement costume.
Tip: Please label all costumes with your child’s name on the inside tag to help prevent items from being misplaced.
Costume Pick-Up & Ownership
After the annual recital, students may keep their costumes. However, any costume not picked up by the start of the next session will become the property of Dancin’ Around Dance Studio.
DANCE PORTRAITS
Each year, professional portraits are taken of every class. Group class photos are mandatory, as they are used in recital materials. Purchasing individual portraits is optional.
Portraits are typically scheduled 1–2 weeks before the recital at Dancin’ Around Dance Studio. Order forms will be distributed on picture day, and pricing may vary depending on the photographer.
You will receive an email notification once portraits are ready for pickup. Please be sure to retrieve your order promptly. The studio is not responsible for lost or unclaimed portraits after the designated pickup period.
If you have any issues or questions regarding your photo order, please contact the photography company directly, not the studio. Be sure to keep all receipts and order confirmations for your records.
VACATION DATES & STUDIO CLOSURES
Dancin’ Around Dance Studio follows a general holiday schedule in alignment with most local public school calendars. However, we do not always observe every school holiday or closure. Please check with the studio directly for specific dates each season.
The studio will be closed on the following holidays and breaks:
-
Labor Day
-
Thanksgiving Break (dates announced in fall)
-
Christmas/Winter Break (dates announced in fall)
-
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
-
Presidents’ Day
-
Spring Break (dates announced in spring)
-
Memorial Day
Reminder: Tuition remains the same regardless of the number of weeks in a month, scheduled breaks, student absences, or weather-related closures.
DISCLOUSURE & CONTACT US
Photographs and videos taken during Dancin’ Around Dance Studio classes, events, and performances are the property of the studio. These images may be used for advertising, marketing, and promotional purposes across print and digital platforms.
Dancin’ Around Dance Studio maintains a strict no-refund policy. All payments, including tuition, fees, and merchandise, are non-refundable and non-transferable.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact:
Ms. Vi Donald
📞 (219) 237-2666
Mailing Address:
Dancin’ Around Dance Studio
312 Ridge Road
Munster, IN 46321