Studio Standards

Our studio is built on respect, accountability, and commitment. Every dancer who trains here agrees to uphold these values in how they speak, act, and show up for themselves and others.

All dancers and families are expected to:

• Treat teachers, staff, peers, and guests with respect
• Use language that is constructive, not harmful or divisive
• Arrive prepared, on time, and ready to work
• Take correction with maturity and effort
• Maintain a positive and professional attitude in class and at performances
• Care for studio property and shared spaces
• Represent The Soma Arts with integrity both inside and outside the studio

The following behaviors are not aligned with our values:

• Disrespectful or disruptive behavior
• Bullying, exclusion, or intimidation
• Excessive absences or lack of preparation
• Repeated disregard for instruction or studio policies
• Inappropriate conduct at performances or studio events
• Conduct (in person or online) that harms the studio community

Our goal is always growth first. When concerns arise, we will address them directly and professionally.

Consequences may include:

• Private conversation and behavioral correction
• Parent meeting
• Probationary period
• Removal from performances or special opportunities
• Removal from a pathway program
• Suspension from classes
• Expulsion without refund in cases of severe or repeated misconduct

The Soma Arts reserves the right to determine appropriate consequences based on the severity and frequency of behavior.

We believe in your dancer — and we expect them to rise to the environment they are part of. Excellence is earned here. Trust is earned here. Opportunities are earned here. Our community thrives when every dancer chooses to show up with integrity, effort, and respect.

• Attire should allow instructors to assess alignment and give technical feedback. Nothing oversized during primary movement portions of class. Warmups (“garbage”) are allowed during warmups only.
• Mesh panels, open backs, crop tops, and higher-cut legs are allowed if they serve movement visibility and comfort, not distraction. All attire must stay in place during movement.
• If cleavage, buttocks, etc. are overly visible, an appropriate tank or short will be provided and charged to your account, and a private conversation will follow.

Assigned Class Color Required

All movers must wear their assigned class level color in all Academy classes, as listed on the Academy Levels page, with either black, white or class-colored shorts, leggings, skirts, etc., to accompany by style.

Hair

Hair must be secure, out of the face, and off the neck.

• Ballet & Conservatory: Bun required.
• All other styles: Minimum ponytail — no hair in the face.

Jewelry

• Small stud earrings allowed.
• Minimal bracelets/necklaces may be worn if they are flat and not distracting or dangling. No charms or noisy pieces.
• Smart watches are allowed until they become a distraction.

Gentlemen

• Black or class-colored athletic shorts (knees visible) or fitted pants.
• Slim black, white, or class-colored T-shirts.
• Hair must be off the shoulders and out of the face.
• Black canvas ballet shoes for Ballet classes with black socks underneath.

Accounts that become more than 45 days past due will be placed on Account Hold.

While on hold:

• Dancers may not participate in performances
• Costumes will not be ordered or distributed
• Participation in new choreography or pathway opportunities may be paused
• Balances must be cleared before re-enrollment in future blocks

Account Hold status will be lifted once the outstanding balance is resolved.

We understand that extenuating circumstances may arise. Families experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to communicate proactively. Payment arrangements may be considered at the discretion of the studio.

Pathway Programs

Company and Conservatory participants sign annual agreements and are financially responsible for the full program year once their contract is signed. No refunds will be given.

Academy Enrollment

A 30-day written notice is required for Academy withdrawals.

If a dancer withdraws before Week 10 of a semester, any tuition paid beyond the first half of the semester will be refunded.

Withdrawals after Week 10 are not eligible for refunds, as the majority of the semester has already been reserved and staffed.

The safety and long-term health of our dancers is a priority. If a dancer experiences an injury that limits participation, parents must notify the studio in writing.

An email must include:

• Nature of the injury
• Expected duration of limited participation
• Physician recommendations (if applicable)
• Plan for recovery and return to full activity

Dancers who are injured are expected to attend class and observe unless otherwise advised by a medical professional. Observation remains part of the training process.

If an injury requires extended absence or significantly impacts performance readiness, placement in choreography, performances, or pathway programs may be adjusted.

A doctor’s clearance may be required before returning to full participation after significant injury.

Open communication ensures we can support each dancer appropriately and safely.