School Policies
Attendance - Absences - Make up Classes
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Consistent attendance is essential for dance progress and success.
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Planned absences - Please notify us in advance.
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Illness or last-minute absences - A courtesy email/call is appreciated.
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Missed classes - Refunds are not provided.
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Makeup classes - Limited options may be available upon request.
Class Placement
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Students in Grade 3 and younger are placed in classes based on their age and grade level, with a firm placement cutoff date of October 15. No exceptions.
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For students in Grade 4+, Maine State Ballet takes pride in creating personalized schedules that meet the needs of each dancer. Placement is determined through observation of class work and performances, with regular inter-staff communication, based on the following criteria:
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​​True demonstrated commitment level and work ethic
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Dance technique and strength (including pointe work)
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Regular attendance
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Ability to understand, apply, and retain dance concepts
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Musicality
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Positive attitude and age-appropriate ability to work with dancers and teachers in a professional manner
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Classroom focus
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Classroom expectations are taught daily. If dancers are unsure of what's expected, be sure to pay close attention to teachers during class. If a concept or correction isn't clear, don't hesitate to ask teachers during class time. Remember, corrections given in class apply to all students. Dancers who usually make the most progress are consistently present, focused, and engaged throughout the entire class, school year, summer workshops, and performances.
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We invite dancers to take personal responsibility, accountability, and initiative to meet these standards over an extended period of time before questioning placement decisions.
Registered Student Policy Statement
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All tuition/costume fees must be paid in full for services rendered. Students will not be permitted to attend summer dance camps or subsequent school years until any outstanding balances are resolved.
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By registering with Maine State Ballet, families grant permission for the use of student photographs for use in promotional materials and on our website (no names are used). If you prefer that your student’s image not be used, please notify us directly.
Safe Environment for Dancers
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Maine State Ballet is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students. For the health and well-being of our dancers, please note that some students have allergies - pets are not permitted in the building.
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While every effort is made to ensure proper training and safety, dance is a physical activities and accidents may occur. By participating in classes, students and their parent(s)/guardian(s) acknowledge and accept the inherent risks of dance-related injuries.
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In the event of an injury, our staff will provide appropriate assistance and contact the student's family. Maine State Ballet reserves the right to call 911in the case of serious injury or illness.
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Storm Cancelations and Holidays
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Families will be emailed as soon as a decision is made to close school (typically announced by noon of a snow day). You may also:
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Call the studio at 207-781-7672.
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Check our Social Media sites.
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Check local channels 6, 8 & 13 or their websites: wcsh6.com, wmtw.com, wgme13.com (register with these sites to receive email notifications).
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We do not observe federal Monday holidays in order to maintain the regular number of Monday classes.