Competition Team Contract &

Information Packet

2024 - 2025

Required Classes & Fees

*all fees are subject to change (All Petite - Senior team dancers are guaranteed at least 3 dances)

Solo, Duo, & Trio Details

These optional dances are open for ANY competitive dancer (excluding Pre-Co teams) to have. Solos, duos, trios can be choreographed by in-house choreographers or outside choreographers. It is up to you and your dancer to inquire about this directly with the choreographer. The studio will assist in registering your dancer’s routine for competitions, upon approval from PDS Management, that PDS is attending. PDS competitive dancers are not allowed to compete their solos at additional competitions that our studio is not attending already.

The financial transactions & scheduling of rehearsals is to be dealt with between the dancer’s family and the choreographer directly. All solo/duo/trio rehearsals must be held at PDS. If you are registering more than one solo/duo/trio at a competition, an additional admin fee of $15 per routine must be paid to PDS.

All costume or choreography awards MUST be given to the choreographer or costume designer (unless catalog costume is purchased) directly and not kept by the dancer/dancer’s family.

Potential Competition/Performance Schedule

Team Class Requirements

*requires invitation classes

choose one or the other

This schedule is subject to change.

Contract

PDS Competitive Program

2024-2025

1. Mission:

1. The purpose of the PDS Competitive Team is to ignite the passion for dance within our studio while fostering excellence, teamwork, and personal growth. Instilling values of respect, sportsmanship, and resilience on and off the stage, molding well-rounded individuals beyond the dancer's identity.

2. Commitments

1. We believe when you make a commitment to this team you should follow through on the entire season. When committing to the full competition season, be sure to understand the time and financial commitment you are making. We want the best for our dancers, their families, and our school and we want this to be the best possible experience for all! Please be sure to know what you are signing up for BEFORE the season begins. Being a competitive dancer is an athletic leadership commitment that lasts from June - May.
2. Financial Commitments:

• All tuition, costumes, choreography, and competition fees are non-refundable; Everyone MUST be on autopay. Tuition and Dance Accounts must be kept current to be allowed to compete/perform/rehearse.
• Monthly tuition is due by the 1st of the month. A $15 late fee will be charged to any account if not paid by the 7th.  PDS tuition payments run August - May 31st
• Monthly team fees are due by the 15th of the month. This will automatically be billed to your account. Fees will vary depending on the team. PDS team fees run June - February.
• There will be no excuses accepted for late payments. All payments must be paid on time to be able to dance, rehearse, or perform.
• Team fees cover competition fees, music editing fees, hotel fees for PDS team coaches, competition stipends for PDS team coaches, coach observer passes, administrative fees etc.
• Costume fees cover costumes & hair pieces.
• Tuition fees cover required classes at PDS.

3. Responsibilities:

1. Competitive dancers will take part in:

• In-State Performance Opportunities
• In-State Competitions
• Potential Out-of-State Competition(s)

• If we attend a competition out-of-state, the parent/guardian is responsible for booking all accommodations & travel. The studio will book competition registration.

• All Days of Recital Rehearsals and Shows
• Full Company Fundraising

• Trunk-Or-Treat
• Winter Wonderland

4. Dancer & Parent Code of Conduct:

1. Members of each team & their parents are responsible for knowing all the PDS Competitive team expectations and requirements.
2. Attitude, dedication and enthusiasm are just as important as physical skills. You should have a positive attitude at all times. Be friendly, cheerful and always observe the rules of good sportsmanship. This applies to parents/guardians as well.
3. You are encouraged to be involved in other activities, but they must come second to being a competitive dancer at PDS. This includes not leaving classes/rehearsals early or coming late due to an outside activity.
4. All members & parents/guardians must be good citizens of the studio. Foul language, smoking, drug use, excessive public displays of affection, fighting, poor sportsmanship, or disrespectful behavior are unacceptable and subject to team and studio disciplinary action.
5. Students may not use or be in possession of nicotine (including vapes, juuls, pens, etc.), tobacco, alcohol, narcotics, or drugs. Your behavior must also be a positive reflection of PDS at all times. All dancers & parents will adhere to the PDS Code of Conduct. First offenses could result in the removal of a dancer from the competition team or program, suspensions will be left to the discretion of PDS Management. All second offenses will result in immediate removal from the program.
6. If any content (photos/videos) exhibiting inappropriate behavior whether it is at the studio or outside of the studio is brought to PDS’s attention, dancers will be disciplined through the PDS Athletic Code of Conduct.
7. Poor sportsmanship is prohibited. This includes but is not limited to booing, taunting, leading a derogatory chant, inappropriate social media posts, or inappropriate behavior towards other studios or teams. This could result in a suspension or removal from the program.
8. The only acceptable excuse for missing class or rehearsal is an excused illness or a death in the family. Jobs, babysitting, homework, concerts, vacations, etc. are not valid excuses. Any planned family activity such as wedding, anniversaries, etc. should be known well ahead of time. All planned absences must be submitted to the studio 2 months prior to the date of absence. Any dates submitted after that will be counted as unexcused. No competitions, conventions, performances or recitals may be missed.
9. PDS Competition team members may not teach or assist at another dance school. Members may not belong to another dance school's competition or performance group. The directors/coaches/studio owners reserve the right to make and enforce disciplinary decisions concerning any situation not covered in this contract. The directors/coaches/studio owners reserve the right to interpret the eligibility standing of every member of this group.

5. Summer Company Weeks

1. All dancers are required to keep themselves in good physical condition while away from the team during the summer.
2. All dancers are required to attend summer company weeks. Out of town vacations are excused with documentation.

6. Class, Rehearsal, Performance Expectations & Dress Code

1. Dancers are expected to be dressed and ready at least 5 minutes before every class (unless otherwise stated by the coach or PDS Management).
2. Dancers are not allowed to look at their cell phones during a class.
3. Class & Rehearsal Dress Code:

• Ballet – Pink canvas ballet shoes, pink-footed tights, and a solid black leotard of the dancer's choice. Tights may not be torn and must be worn under the leotard. Hair must be secured in a slick back bun and off of the face. Bloch canvas shoes are recommended.
• Rehearsals & Jazz – Dancers must wear appropriate dance attire, leotards, dance shorts, dance pants, tights, etc. Appropriate dance shoes must be brought to every class. Hair must be secured up and off of the face.
• All Other Classes – Dancers must wear appropriate dance attire, leotards, dance shorts, dance pants, tights, etc. Appropriate dance shoes must be brought to every class. Hair must be secured up and off of the face before entering the studio.
• No crop tops or sports bras allowed.

4. Costumes:

• All costumes need to be well maintained throughout the season. If a repair is required, please bring it to the coach's attention. Any damaged or lost costume will result in a new one being purchased or made at your cost, including shipping, rush fees, alterations, etc. If a dancer forgets costume, accessories, shoes, or tights for a performance/competition, it is the coach's decision whether or not the dancer will be allowed to perform.

7. Team Placement

• The selection process is based on a tryout/audition. A dancer may be asked to come in for a callback.
• Teams will be assigned by PDS Management & Judges after calculating points.
• Dancers may make a team but be placed as an alternate in dances.

1. Formations & Performance Opportunities

• Formations & Performance Opportunities are non-negotiable. Coaches use their thorough training and expertise to place dancers in correct spacing & performances. Formations/performance opportunities will not change for any reason other than the coach thinks it is the best choice.
• If a PDS dancer or family member has an opinion on formations or performance opportunities, this will not be taken into consideration by the coach or choreographer.

8. Conflict & Communication

In the circumstance that there is a question on a coaching decision, an issue with a teammate or relationships, or any other concern may arise, the following steps should be taken in numerical order listed.

1. Dancer requests to meet with the coach privately to respectfully discuss the concern at hand and have an open conversation to resolve the issue.
2. Dancer & Parent/Guardian sit down with the coach regarding the continuing issue and create a structured plan to solve the problem effectively.
3. Parent/Guardian, Dancer, Coach(es) & PDS Management have a formal meeting to finalize the decision & put an end to the concern in the best interest of all parties.

9. Parent Responsibilities

1. Commitment

1. Dance is a commitment for both the member and her parent/guardian(s) due to the financial obligation as well as the practices and/or functions in which transportation will be needed.

• Dancers will receive consequences (as outlined in the contract) even if it is the fault of the parent. Parents and dancers need to work together to make sure the dancer arrives at all events, classes and commitments on time.
• Fees are to be expected on time.
• If a member is removed from the team or chooses to leave the team for any reason, they are still responsible for all items and events that have been ordered and committed to.
• Please consider the entire situation, not just your dancer’s position, before jumping to conclusions. The best decision for the team will always prevail. If you want to set up a meeting, please use the communication methods above in the contract. Texts will not be responded to. Emails/BAND messages only.
• Focus on your daughter. Coaches will focus on the teams. It is not appropriate for parent’s to discuss the status of other dancers with anyone. Please be respectful of all families who are in the program.  

2.     Supporting your child's passion for dance is a wonderful journey, and being a positive parent/guardian plays a crucial role in their success and happiness at the studio. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate this exciting path:

Focus on Enjoyment:

• Remember, it's their passion: Let your child take the lead in expressing their enjoyment and goals. Celebrate their love for dance, not just their achievements.

• Fun over perfection: Encourage effort and growth, not just flawless execution. Mistakes are a natural part of learning, so prioritize the joy of dance over perfectionism.

Be Supportive and Respectful:

• Be their cheerleader: Be enthusiastic about their dance journey, offer encouragement, and provide positive feedback. Your belief in them is powerful.
• Respect the instructors: Trust the expertise of the teachers and encourage communication. Avoid criticizing instructors in front of your child.
• Respect other dancers: Promote kindness and support toward teammates and competitors. Instill values of sportsmanship and inclusivity.

Practice Healthy Communication:

• Set realistic expectations: Discuss goals and expectations together, emphasizing effort and enjoyment over unrealistic achievement pressures.
• Maintain positive communication with instructors: Approach concerns respectfully and collaboratively, seeking solutions alongside the teacher.

Remember Logistics and Responsibility:

• Be organized and punctual: Ensure your child arrives on time, dressed appropriately, and with all necessary equipment.
• Respect studio policies: Familiarize yourself with the studio's rules and expectations, and ensure your child follows them respectfully.

Miscellaneous:

• Engage with the dance community: Attend performances, volunteer at studio events, and connect with other dance families.
• Be a positive role model: Demonstrate respect, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm for your child's passion.
• Celebrate all successes: Big or small, acknowledge and celebrate each step your child takes, from mastering a new move to overcoming a challenge.

By following these guidelines and fostering a positive, supportive environment, you can ensure a truly enriching and rewarding dance experience for your child and become a valuable part of the dance studio community.

10. Booster Club & Fundraising

1. There will be an opportunity to form a booster club to help support dancer’s fees this season. This booster club is not a part of PDS and is completely parent/volunteer run & created.
2. This booster club will operate externally. No PDS software, hardware or staff time will be used to financially support this booster club.
3. PDS will offer to host 2 full company fundraisers under the PDS name in the season. It is up to the booster club to organize any other fundraisers outside of PDS.
4. The booster club has to create a bank account that is NOT connected to PDS at all. The booster club’s title can not mention “Phoenix Dance Studio” at all.
5. PDS will sometimes share, on the story, booster club fundraiser marketing on IG & Facebook only. This is not guaranteed to happen.

11. Photo Release

During the year, dancers may be photographed, videoed, interviewed, etc. at various studio sponsored events. With parent/guardian consent, the photos, videos, or dance-related information may be used on various social media platforms, websites, newspapers, brochures, and/or other ways of showcasing PDS.

PDS Competition Team Agreement
Please initial on each line and have a parent and dancer signature at the bottom. Individuals will not be able to try out without this completed form.  
I have read and agreed to all of the terms listed and understand that I must adhere to these policies if I am placed on the team or have already been placed on a team.

_____ Mission/Commitments/Responsibilities

_____ Dancer & Parent Code of Conduct

_____ Summer Commitments

_____ Class, Rehearsal, Performance Expectations & Dress Code

_____ Team Placement

_____ Conflict & Communication

_____ Parent Responsibilities

_____ Booster Club & Fundraising

_____Photo Release

Failure to uphold the items detailed above can result in removal from the team.

Dancer’s Name: _____________________________

Signature: __________________________________

Parent’s Name :_____________________________

Signature: ___________________________________

PDS Competition Team Parent Agreement

The PDS Competition Program works to foster a positive and respectful environment for students, parents, and coaches. As a parent/guardian, I understand I am instrumental in the social development of my dancer and my only job is to support and lift up my dancer and her teammates. If a parent participates in any of the behaviors below, a meeting may be called between the parent, coach, and administrator to determine further action, which could include removal from the program.

• Inappropriate discussions between parents, coaches, and/or dancers, including negative discussions of other dancers in the program, decisions made by the coach, team drama, etc.
• Consistent and unconstructive negativity expressed to coach, dancer(s), or other parents.
• Giving unsolicited and inappropriate critiques to any dancer on the team about their performances at games, halftimes, competitions etc.
• Instigating conflict between coaches and other parents, coaches and dancer(s), dancer(s) and other parents, and/or dancer(s) and other dancer(s)
• Inputting personal opinions on studio policies, schedules, competition plans & all other studio specific choices

When concerns or conflicts arise, as a parent of the PDS Competition Program, I must abide by the guidelines set forth. I must contact the studio management and not other parents/coaches/staff/dancers. I recognize failure to do so may affect my dancer’s participation in this program.

Parent/Guardian Name: ____________________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________________________________________________