Student Handbook Professional Program 2019-2020
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2019-2020
Student Handbook
Professional Program
Fall Semester: August 19, 2019 – December 22, 2019
Spring Semester: January 13, 2020 – May 17, 2020
Houston Ballet Center for Dance
601 Preston Street
Houston, TX 77002
Tel: (713) 523-6300
Fax: (713) 523-4038
HBAcademy@houstonballet.org
www.houstonballet.org/academy
1HOUSTON BALLET MISSION STATEMENT...................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
ACADEMY GENERAL INFORMATION ....................................................................................................................................... 6
Academy Office Hours ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6
Lost and Found ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6
Call Boards .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6
Academy Calendar.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6
AUDITIONS .............................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Professional Program.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................7
Houston Ballet II .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................7
Auditioning by Video .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................7
REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION ..................................................................................................................... 8
Registration Process........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Need-Based Financial Assistance............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Merit Scholarships ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Scholarship Donations .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................9
Change of Address/Information.................................................................................................................................................................................................................9
Refund Policy........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................9
Withdrawal Policy...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................9
CLASS UNIFORMS .................................................................................................................................................................. 10
Additional Requirements ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 10
Shoe Policy.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
CLASS ETIQUETTE ................................................................................................................................................................ 10
INCLEMENT WEATHER & EMERGENCY PROCEDURES .......................................................................................................... 11
Bad Weather Days/ Class Cancellation..................................................................................................................................................................................................11
Emergency Evacuation Procedure...........................................................................................................................................................................................................11
Hurricane Emergency Procedure .............................................................................................................................................................................................................11
STUDENT BENEFITS .............................................................................................................................................................. 12
Athletic Trainer ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
Pilates ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Attending Adult Classes ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Complimentary Tickets ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
Tickets to Houston Ballet Performances............................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
Physical Education Class Credit ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Student Stipend ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 13
PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES .......................................................................................................................................... 13
Academy Spring Showcase ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
2The Nutcracker ....................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Public Relation Events ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Houston Ballet Productions ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Additional Performances ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 13
SUMMER INTENSIVE PROGRAM ............................................................................................................................................ 14
POLICIES AND RULES ............................................................................................................................................................ 15
Houston Ballet Academy Rules ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 15
Student Pick-up and Drop Off................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Attendance/Absences/Make-Up Classes ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 15
Class Observation Days ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................16
Class Level Advancement............................................................................................................................................................................................................................16
Evaluations ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................16
Traditional and Distance Education....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
Non-Discrimination/Non-Harassment Policy....................................................................................................................................................................................18
Bullying Policy....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................18
Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco Policy ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................18
Lockers...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................18
Consequences for Unacceptable Behavior .........................................................................................................................................................................................19
HEALTH POLICIES ................................................................................................................................................................. 20
Student Physicals ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................20
Medical Insurance and Pharmacies / Medical Center ..................................................................................................................................................................20
Influenza – (The Flu) .....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................20
Sanctuary Policy ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Healthy Weight Management Policy ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Transportation Guidelines.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
3HOUSTON BALLET MISSION STATEMENT
To inspire a lasting love and appreciation for dance through artistic excellence, exhilarating performances,
innovative choreography, and superb educational programs.
In furtherance of our mission, we are committed to maintaining and enhancing our status as:
• A classically trained company with a diverse repertory, whose range includes the classics, as well as
contemporary works.
• A company that attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers and provides them with an
environment where they can thrive and further develop the art form.
• An international company that is accessible to broad and growing local, national, and international audiences.
• A company with a world-class Academy that provides first rate instruction for professional dancers and
meaningful programs for non-professional dancers.
4HOUSTON BALLET ACADEMY LEADERSHIP
Stanton Welch, Artistic Director, Member of the Order of Australia (AM)
Melissa Bowman, Academy Director
Jennifer Sommers, Director of Education
HOUSTON BALLET ACADEMY FACULTY AND STAFF
Kendahl Bermudez, Academy Administrative Assistant
Yahudi D. Castaneda, Academy Artistic Operations Manager (Advanced & Professional)
Carla Cortez, Academy Registrar (Preschool & Pre-Professional Levels 1-10)
Vanessa Egerton, Academy Part-Time Administrative Assistant
Molly LeBeau, Academy Recruitment Manager
Amy Pearl, Resident Advisor, Market Square Tower
Dustin Shaw, Academy Artistic Operations Coordinator
Hannah Smith, Resident Dorm Supervisor
Katie Wesche, Academy Registrar (Advanced & Professional)
Megan Williams, Student Services Coordinator
Laurel Collins Wright, Academy Programs Coordinator
For additional faculty and staff please visit our website https://www.houstonballet.org/about/academy1/staff/
ARTISTIC ADVISORS
In order to provide the best communication possible, we assign main teachers to each Level. The assigned teacher of the
student’s Level is your contact for questions regarding the student’s progress. The assignments are as follows:
Level Advisor Email
HBII, Pro 2 Women Melissa Bowman MBowman@houstonballet.org
Pro 1, Level 5-10/Adv Women Cheryne Busch CBusch@houstonballet.org
Adv, Pro, HBII Men Claudio Muñoz CMunoz@houstonballet.org
SPORTS MEDICINE AND WELLNESS TEAM
Athletic Trainer: Leanne Wonesh MS, LAT, ATC
Strength & Conditioning Coach: Akihiro Kawasaki
Wellness Instructors: Brittany Deveau, Heather Greene, Michelle Gregovic, Aaron Harting, Nadia Khan, Jennifer Lee, Nicole
Malandra, Paula Neff, Sharon Paredes, Lisa Petrozzi, Hilary Schaff
Nutritionist: Nikki Estep, MPH, RDN, LD
Licensed Professional Counselor: Kelsey Fyffe, MA, LPC
Houston Methodist Hospital Physiotherapy Sports Medicine began working with Houston Ballet in January of 2006. They
coordinate with Houston Ballet team physician, Dr. Kevin Varner, to provide an entire team of health professionals to oversee
dancer wellness including an onsite certified athletic trainer. Dancers also have access to Methodist Hospital’s Center for
Performing Arts Medicine.
ACADEMIC ADVISORS
Nathaniel Nakadate, Academic Advisor
Judy Sprong, ESL Teacher
5ACADEMY GENERAL INFORMATION
Academy Office Hours
Monday – Friday.........................9:00am– 6:00pm
Saturday..........................................8:30am – 4:00pm
Lost and Found
Lost and Found is located in the loading dock area on the first floor or at the Reception Desk should it be a valuable item. Please
note that all items in the Lost and Found bin are discarded on a regular basis.
Call Boards
All students and parents/guardians should refer to the call boards for information regarding rehearsals, class schedules, and
last-minute changes. The schedule will be posted on the call boards on the first floor next to the Little Brown Studio, on the
third floor, and inside the Academy office. An Academy staff member must first review any document posted on the call board.
Academy Calendar
All information relating to the Academy calendar can be found in your student portal on Classe365 or the link below:
www.houstonballet.org/About/Academy1/Calendar
6AUDITIONS
Professional Program
The Professional Program is comprised of Levels Pro 1, Pro 2, and Houston Ballet II. Auditions are held in May and August for
the Fall semester and in December for the Spring semester. Please refer to the Academy website for audition dates:
https://www.houstonballet.org/about/academy1/main-school/auditions/
All students auditioning will be notified by email of their audition results. Houston Ballet Academy maintains a policy of non-
discrimination regarding race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sexual preference, or non-related disability.
Houston Ballet II
Houston Ballet II (HBII) is Houston Ballet’s second company and a part of Houston Ballet Academy. HBII prepares students for a
professional career in the field of dance. Admittance into HBII is by audition only or by artistic placement. Dancers may submit a
video audition first and may then be invited to audition in person.
Auditioning by Video
Please see our website for instructions on submitting an online audition.
https://www.houstonballet.org/about/academy1/main-school/auditions/
7REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Registration Process
Registration for current students takes place twice a year:
• In April for the Fall and Spring semester
• In December for the Summer Intensive Program
New students may register in December for the Spring semester.
The Academy Registrar must receive all completed registration materials by the deadline shown on their registration email. If
these materials are not received by the deadline, the student will not be guaranteed a space in his/her assigned level. Level
placement will be noted in the student’s registration email.
At the time of registration, a payment, via credit card, is required to hold a student's class selection. The payment amount
required is the $150 registration fee and the first installment of tuition.
After the registration is processed, parents or guardians may pay tuition in one of two ways:
• Over four equal installments
• Payment in full for the 2019-2020 Academy year
To make payments, log onto Classe365 using the username and password created for the primary parent/guardian.
Forms of Payment
Houston Ballet accepts checks, cashier’s checks, cash, or credit cards (American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Discover)
The parent(s) or guardian of the registered child will be responsible for ensuring the Academy Office receives payment prior to
the end of each billing cycle. Payments may be mailed, hand-delivered, completed online, or phoned-in to the Academy Office.
Note: late fees will apply for any payments not received by the deadlines below.
Tuition can be paid in quarterly installments on or before the below dates:
First Payment Due within 1 week of registration
Second Payment Due no later than August 19, 2019
Third Payment Due no later than November 19, 2019
Fourth Payment Due no later than February 19, 2020
**Please note that students with delinquent accounts will not be admitted to class or be able to register for the Summer
Intensive Program or the following year until their account is current.
Need-Based Financial Assistance
Parents or guardians may apply for need-based financial assistance by going to the TADS link on the Houston Ballet website.
The application process begins in the summer. Those who complete an application during the summer do not need to reapply in
the Fall/Spring.
• Applications are not considered until a student has registered for Academy programs.
• Applications may take up to one month for review. Decisions will be sent by email.
• Financial assistance is not automatically renewed each year.
At any time, a student on financial assistance may be placed on probation for behavior, attitude, excessive absences, missed
rehearsals, or limited progress. If HBA finds further action is required, the student’s financial assistance may be revoked.
Merit Scholarships
Merit scholarships are awarded annually by the Academy Artistic Staff. Awards are based on the student’s physical and artistic
ability. You may not apply for a scholarship. All full scholarship students are required to pay a $200 scholarship fee.
8Scholarship Donations
Students may receive outside scholarships from a variety of sources. Tuition payments made by individuals or organizations on
behalf of an Academy student will be accepted but may not be considered tax-deductible donations. For more information,
contact the Academy Director of Education at JSommers@houstonballet.org.
Houston Ballet is dedicated to offering the highest caliber training, while keeping ballet accessible. However, tuition covers only
70% of Academy costs. Gifts from parents or guardians and other supporters are vital to ensuring every professional and non-
professional dancer, despite capacity, has access to the finest instruction. If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to
Houston Ballet to assist with our annual merit scholarships, please contact Alexandra Yates at ayates@houstonballet.com or
(713) 535-3215.
Returned Checks
A $25 fee will be due for all checks returned for any reason. The fee must be paid in cash within one week from the time the
owner of the account is notified.
Change of Address/Information
Parents or guardians and students must promptly notify the Academy Registrar of any change in address or phone number.
Advanced and Professional Program students should contact Katie Wesche at Kwesche@houstonballet.org.
Refund Policy
TUITION AND HOUSING FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
Should a student withdraw who has paid, the remaining tuition and all fees will be forfeited to Houston Ballet Academy.
Forfeited tuition may not be considered a tax-deductible donation.
Withdrawal Policy
Should a parent or guardian desire to withdraw a student prior to the end of the Academy year, the Registrar and Principal of
the School must receive written notice stating the student’s name and the date that the student will officially withdraw from the
program. THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL TUITION PAYMENTS DUE UNTIL THE DATE
THE ACADEMY OFFICE RECEIVES NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL IN WRITING FROM THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN. Verbal
notification of withdrawal will not be accepted.
9CLASS UNIFORMS
Required class attire for 2019-2020: www.houstonballet.org/About/Academy1/Class-attire.
Additional Requirements
• Female students must have their hair pulled back away from the face and secured neatly in a classical bun. Female
students with short hair must wear a headband and secure the hair at the back.
• Male students must have a clean-cut, traditional haircut, and no facial hair. Ponytails, barrettes, and shaved heads are
unacceptable.
• Performance Hair: All men and women will be required to conform to the hair requirements for each piece performed.
Their teacher will approve styles, cut, and color up to three weeks before any performance. Once approved, no changes
may be made.
• Haircuts for students in the Professional Program must be approved by the Academy Artistic Operations Manager
• Students may not wear jewelry, other than pierced ear studs, in class or rehearsal.
• Students should not bring valuable jewelry to the Academy. The Academy is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.
• Students may not wear rubber pants, leg warmers, or sweatpants in class.
• Students should not wear dance clothes as street wear outside Houston Ballet.
• Students should not apply lotion in the studios or apply lotion to the skin on days where they will be doing floor work.
Lotion and oils can create slick spots on the studio floor.
Shoe Policy
Students who perform in Houston Ballet Company performances will receive one pair of shoes for a given number of
performances. HBII students will be provided one pair of performance shoes per HBII or Houston Ballet performance. The
Academy and Houston Ballet do not provide rehearsal shoes for HBII dancers.
CLASS ETIQUETTE
• Each student is expected to approach all classes with energy, enthusiasm, and the desire to learn. Students should
maintain an open and responsive attitude and apply all corrections given in class and rehearsals.
• Students may not enter class late or leave class early without permission from the instructor. Injuries are caused by
insufficient warm-up, and interruptions are distracting to the other students in class. If a student is more than 10
minutes late, the teacher must give permission for the student to participate in class.
• Food, drinks, and chewing gum are prohibited in the studios. Students in Levels 5-HBII may bring water bottles into the
studios, but spills must be cleaned immediately. This rule is strictly enforced for the safety of the dancers and the
protection of the floors.
• Students are not permitted to play the pianos unless they have received permission by the Orchestra Manager/Music
Administrator.
• Students may not talk with friends or accompanists during class.
• The Academy reserves the right to dismiss students from class for inappropriate behavior.
• Students must always be in their specified uniform.
10INCLEMENT WEATHER & EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Bad Weather Days/ Class Cancellation
Classes may occasionally be canceled due to severe weather conditions. The Academy follows Houston Independent School
District’s closing schedule for inclement weather. The Academy will notify parents or guardians by email should classes be
canceled. Parents or guardians should also check the website, as well as the Academy Facebook page, for updates regarding
class closures. Students may request a make-up due to classes missed during Academy closures.
Emergency Evacuation Procedure
In the event of an emergency, an alarm will sound. Teachers will guide students out of the building, and a staff member will
remain with the students until parents or guardians arrive. Parents or guardians waiting in the lobby should exit the building
immediately and wait in the park on the corner of Preston and Smith. Teachers will familiarize students with exit information at
the beginning of each semester.
Hurricane Emergency Procedure
In the event of a hurricane evacuation for Harris County, Houston Ballet will be responsible for sheltering students living in
Houston Ballet dormitories or in apartments/homestay without parents/guardians. All students are required to evacuate and
stay at the shelter provided by Houston Ballet unless otherwise noted in advance. Houston Ballet will work with the American
Red Cross to determine a safe shelter location. Students will be transported in vans and cars and be chaperoned throughout
their stay. Food, water, and first-aid supplies will be provided and prepared for students. Academy staff will stay in
communication with parents or guardians by email and/or telephone.
11STUDENT BENEFITS
Athletic Trainer
Students in Pro 1, Pro 2, and HBII may see the athletic trainer during designated hours free of charge. Company members’ needs
will be the highest priority for appointments. Hours available to Academy Professional Program students are posted on the
bulletin board at the beginning of each semester.
Students in Pro 1, Pro 2, and HBII who are injured must have a written note from the athletic trainer that indicates if the student
should observe class, participate in class, or be seen by a doctor. Students are not permitted to sit out from class without a pass.
If the athletic trainer is not present, the student should see the Academy office.
Pilates
Pilates mat classes are offered to Pro 1, Pro 2, and HBII students as part of their weekly schedule. Students also have the option
to sign up for private appointments during specified times that are reflected on the weekly schedule. All semi-private and pre-
paid appointments must be scheduled through the Academy. Multiple appointments can be purchased at one time. For more
information, or to schedule an appointment, please contact Megan Williams at MWilliams@houstonballet.org.
Attending Adult Classes
Students currently enrolled in the Professional Program may take adult classes free of charge.
Complimentary Tickets
If the ticket services manager determines that there is enough availability, dancers in the Professional Program may receive one
ticket for a performance of a program. If there is not enough inventory in the orchestra section, Houston Ballet Academy
dancers may be seated in other areas of the theater, such as grand tier or balcony.
Students do not receive complimentary tickets for The Nutcracker.
Academy students may not go to the ticket services and ask for free tickets under any circumstances! All tickets will be
distributed by the Academy Administrative Assistant in the Academy office.
Tickets to Houston Ballet Performances
Single tickets (713) 227–ARTS (713–227–2787)
or Subscription (713) 5–BALLET (713–522–5538)
Group Sales (713) 523–6300 ext. 409
Group rates are available for parties of 15 or more (20 or more for The Nutcracker)
Physical Education Class Credit
Several Houston area schools recognize a student’s hours spent at Houston Ballet Academy as an alternative to regular physical
education classes at the school. Should your child wish to receive credit for his/her training at Houston Ballet Academy, please
first contact the student’s school to confirm that Houston Ballet Academy is an acknowledged program partner. Please also ask
about the necessary paperwork to register the student for the program and the process for reporting grades.
A $50.00 administrative fee will be added on student accounts for the completion of Off-Campus P.E. Credit applications. This
fee will cover the entire application process for P.E. credits, which include but are not limited to completing grade reports,
tracking attendance in class and finalizing necessary documents for students. The Academy will pay the annual application fee
to each school district in order to approve our facility. For questions, you may contact Houston Ballet Academy’s Student
Services Coordinator at MWilliams@houstonballet.org.
12Student Stipend
Students may receive stipends, compensation for working at Houston Ballet’s Boutique, or compensation for working a Public
Relations event in the form of a check.
PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
Academy Spring Showcase
Professional Program students will perform at the Wortham Theater Center in the Spring Showcase. This performance is
ticketed and open to the public.
Participation in the Spring Showcase is required and is part of a student’s training. Information about this performance will be
emailed in December. A performance fee has been included with the registration fee. Tickets may be purchased online at
www.houstonballet.org or by calling (713) 227-ARTS.
The Nutcracker
Participation in The Nutcracker is mandatory for students in the Professional Program.
Due to the scheduling of The Nutcracker performances, students will not be able to travel out of town between Thanksgiving
and the conclusion of The Nutcracker performances without prior permission from the Academy Artistic Staff.
Approval must be granted prior to making plane reservations or other travel plans.
Public Relation Events
Small groups of students may be invited to perform or appear at a gala, a school festival, or a holiday party as ambassadors of
Houston Ballet. Occasionally, these are events where students are paid; other times there is no compensation. Participation in
public relations events is a requirement for scholarship students.
Houston Ballet Productions
Students gain valuable performance experience by participating in Houston Ballet productions. As HBII students are
approaching the completion of their training, they are frequently used in Houston Ballet productions. Younger students are
occasionally cast in Company productions.
Houston Ballet performances are professional productions, and the Company Artistic Staff makes all casting decisions. The
following factors are considered when casting for a Houston Ballet production:
• Animation and musicality
• Ability to assimilate steps quickly
• Ability to take instructions
• Maturity and attention span
• Height and size
Additional Performances
Professional Program students have multiple performances throughout the year. For a comprehensive list for the 2019-2020
season, please visit our Academy Performances webpage here.
13SUMMER INTENSIVE PROGRAM
Summer Attendance Policy:
• Partial attendance of a session is not allowed.
• Current students in Advanced, Pro 1 and Pro 2 are required to attend the six-week Summer Intensive Program.
General:
• Current students do not need to audition for the Houston Ballet Summer Intensive Program. Summer registration is
emailed in December.
• Placement and registration for the following year will be emailed to parents or guardians in the Spring. Students who
register for the following year but do not attend the summer program will not need to re-audition.
Auditioning for Other Summer Programs
Students must obtain permission from the Academy artistic staff before attending another audition or program. Requests to
attend auditions may be granted if the audition does not interfere with Houston Ballet rehearsals, performances or the
Academy’s Spring Showcase. Students may contact Academy Artistic Operations Manager for a request form.
14POLICIES AND RULES
This School is authorized under Federal law to enroll nonimmigrant alien students.
Houston Ballet Academy Rules
• Firearms are strictly prohibited on Houston Ballet property.
• Students may visit with friends only in the first-floor lounge. Noise must be kept to a minimum, so Company rehearsals
and Academy classes are not disrupted. Please remember the facility also serves as an office building.
• Students and parents or guardians may not sit on or at the bottom of the stairs.
• Students may not run in the lounge, halls, or on the stairs.
• Bicycles are not permitted inside the building. A bicycle rack is located at 601 Preston Street and all bicycles must be
securely locked.
• Small children must be supervised. Parents or guardians will be asked to remove disruptive children.
• Only students taking class are allowed upstairs. Parents or guardians are always to remain in the lounge on the first
floor.
• Students are not permitted to attend Ballet technique or pointe classes outside of The Houston Ballet Academy. Private
lessons are also not permitted.
• Students are discouraged from participating in competitions. Permission is required from the Academy Director.
Student Pick-up and Drop Off
Please reference the parking options listed at www.houstonballet.org/Plan-your-visit/Buildings-parking for information
regarding parking options. Always follow instructions provided by officers directing traffic at the Center for Dance and all City of
Houston driving and parking regulations.
In order to maintain a safe environment, Houston Ballet requests that parents or guardians follow the below policies for student
drop-off and pick-up at the Center for Dance.
• Parents/guardians may wait for students in the drive-through no more than 15 minutes prior to the end of class. Early
arrivals cause congestion on the roads surrounding our building. If you arrive more than 15 minutes prior to the end of
class, you will be asked to circle around the building.
• Please do not stop next to the Center for Dance and drop off children on Preston Street or Louisiana Avenue. Our drive-
through lane is available for a safe drop off outside of downtown traffic.
• Parents/guardians waiting for pick-up may stop on the right side of the yellow line in our drive-through lane.
• Please do not park over the yellow line in order to allow cars to pass freely in the left lane.
• Parents/guardians dropping off may pause in the left lane while students are entering the building.
• For safety, please do not walk up the ramps; use the sidewalks.
• Do not exit your car.
Failure to abide by the lobby, parking, and pick-up/drop-off policies may result in dismissal from the Academy.
Attendance/Absences/Make-Up Classes
All classes (including supplemental classes, such as Modern / Jazz / Body Conditioning) and rehearsals are mandatory. Students
who miss a semester are required to audition for re-admission.
Students in Levels Pro 1, Pro 2, and HBII are required to email HBAcademy@houstonballet.org or leave a voice message on the
out/ill phone line at 713-874-5421 to report absences. Students missing more than two days of classes are required to bring in a
doctor’s note.
15Class Observation Days
Classes at Houston Ballet Academy are closed to visitors. Parents/guardians are welcome to wait in the first-floor lobby while
their children are in class. Parents/guardians are not allowed to go upstairs and observe their children in class without specific
written permission from the Academy.
Parents/Guardians of students in all Levels are invited to observe a demonstration class at the end of both the Fall and Spring
semesters. Specific dates and times can be found on the Academy calendar link:
https://www.houstonballet.org/about/academy1/calendar/
During observation days, parents/guardians will sign in at the lobby of the Center for Dance and wait for staff members to
escort them upstairs and then back to the lobby when class ends.
Parents and guardians are not allowed in the studios for any reason without the permission of an Academy staff member. Parents,
guardians, and observers must have a visitor pass if they wish to come upstairs for an appointment with the Academy staff.
Class Level Advancement
The Academy Artistic staff determines the class placement of each student. Faculty members evaluate students on artistry,
physicality, maturity and technical ability. Each student progresses at a different pace; therefore, students in the same level may
be promoted at different times.
Evaluations
• Pro 1 and Pro 2 will have an end-of-the-year class evaluation and consultation in May.
• Verbal consultations will also take place in December for Pro 1 and Pro 2. Pro 2 will have a variation evaluation in May.
• Houston Ballet II will have individual consultations following HBII evaluations.
• Students do not receive evaluations during the summer program.
Media Policy
All media inquiries and requests for interviews and information must be referred to Houston Ballet’s Public Relations
department. No dancer, student, parent, guardian, teacher, employee, staff member, or other person affiliated with Houston
Ballet or the Academy should speak with a member of the media about Houston Ballet, the Academy or any individual
associated with either organization, on or off the record, without prior authorization from the Public Relations department. All
photographs taken of Houston Ballet students during Houston Ballet classes or photo sessions are the sole property of Houston
Ballet. Occasionally, students are interviewed by journalists and media crews to promote activities of the Academy and
Company. Please note that there is a Photography and Media Release in your child’s e-registration.
Social Media Policy
Only those employees officially designated by Houston Ballet are authorized to speak on behalf of the Company. Unless you
have received permission from the Public Relations department, you should not in any way imply that your speech is approved
or adopted by Houston Ballet, or that you speak in any official capacity for the Company.
However, Houston Ballet encourages all staff, Company Members, students and faculty to engage with, and create content for,
Houston Ballet social media pages. All active social media participants, directly or indirectly, representing the Houston Ballet
brand, should be aware that Houston Ballet reserves the right to request the immediate removal of content that in any way
relates to Houston Ballet, or the activities herein.
The use of material protected by copyright, trademark law, or other intellectual property rights without permission is prohibited.
Examples of copyrighted material include, but are not limited to, Houston Ballet’s and Houston Ballet’s Academy’s logos, images
(including, but not limited to, photos from performances, rehearsals, [practices] and Houston Ballet events, as well as marketing
collateral), performance audio recordings, performance video footage, footage filmed on Houston Ballet property (including, but
16not limited to, the Center for Dance, the Wortham Theater Center, and the production warehouse), costume and scenic designs,
choreography, video and audio produced by Houston Ballet and Houston Ballet Academy (including, but not limited to,
podcasts), and materials written by Houston Ballet or Houston Ballet Academy (including, but not limited to, text from
brochures, programs, and HB’s website).
Students/Employee Engagement
• When meeting with parents/guardians or students, two staff members should always be present.
• Faculty, staff, and company members may not transport students or minors in their cars without permission from the
Academy. If transport is required in a personal automobile, staff must obtain written permission from the student’s
parent or guardian. If a student is 18 years of age or older, no parental or guardian permission is required.
• Faculty, staff, and company members may not take students out for one on one meetings including dinner, travel, or
transportation to an event.
• Faculty, staff, and company members may not engage with students over text on their personal phone. Correspondence
should only take place through the organization’s emails. Group texts utilized during performances, specifically for
business purposes are permitted. Academy Administrative Staff should be made aware in advance.
• Academy Administrative Staff may correspond with students or minors via text only with regards to absences and for
emergency purposes.
• Resident Dorm Supervisor may correspond with dorm students or minors via text for coordination and for
informational purposes only.
• Faculty, staff, and company members should not engage one on one with students or minors via social media
platforms such as (e.g. Facebook, lnstagram, Linkedln, Myspace, YouTube, Flickr, Twitter, What's App, Snapchat etc.),
Please reference social media policy for further details.
• Students may not use Staff or Company restrooms or dressing rooms.
Students/Employee Engagement on Social Networking Sites
When using a social media site, a student may “follow,” (other similar terminology used by various sites) a company member.
However, a student and a company member may not engage in private communication. This policy allows students to follow the
work of Houston Ballet mentors but is intended to prevent private, direct, one-on-one communication between adults and
minors. Students may not ‘follow’, ‘friend’ (other similar terminology used by various sites) or engage in private communication
with Houston Ballet faculty or staff at any time. Houston Ballet encourages parents or guardians to discuss the dangers of social
media within their students.
Traditional and Distance Education
Houston Ballet Academy has a legal responsibility and fundamental belief that all students within the Academy need to
continue their education, both at the Academy and within traditional educational institutions. Houston Ballet and Houston Ballet
Academy are fortunate to have relationships with online institutions to facilitate enrollment and class advancement.
Texas state law requires that students training at the Academy from outside the Houston area and who have not received a
high school diploma or GED and are under the age of 18 must be continually working on their education. Houston Ballet
Academy requires that these students attend Study Hall class with the Academic Advisor during the Fall and Spring semesters.
Study Hall is held on Monday and Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9pm. The Academic Advisor will assist with schoolwork, proctor
student exams, and monitor student progress. Academics fees in the amount of $275 per semester will be added to a student’s
tuition each semester. Students must attend each session.
17Non-Discrimination/Non-Harassment Policy
Houston Ballet Academy is dedicated to the treatment of all persons with respect and dignity and to providing an environment
that is free from any form of discrimination or harassment. The Academy prohibits and will not tolerate harassment of any kind
to or by any persons, including teachers, staff, students, parents, guardians, and any other person affiliated with or doing
business with Houston Ballet Academy. This prohibition includes harassment for any unlawful discriminatory reason, such as
race, gender, national origin, disability, age or religion. This policy also prohibits actions that, while they may not be so severe or
serious as to constitute harassment in a legal sense, are nevertheless commonly understood to be abusive and disrespectful of
others. Accordingly, slurs, jokes, or remarks that are derogatory of a person or group’s race, ethnic background, religion, gender,
disability, sexual orientation, economic status, or age are considered inappropriate for the Academy’s environment.
Each person is responsible for exercising his or her own good judgment to avoid engaging in conduct that may violate this
policy. A person who believes himself or herself to be a victim of discrimination or harassment should report the incident to the
Academy Director of Education. The matter will be dealt with on a confidential basis with disclosure only to the extent
necessary for fair problem resolution and only to those who have an immediate need to know.
Bullying Policy
Houston Ballet Academy has a zero-tolerance policy for bullying in all forms – verbal, written, physical and online. Should a
student or group of students infringe on another student’s right to an equally safe environment, they can and will be expelled
from Houston Ballet. The action to expel a student is decided by the Artistic Director and Academy Director of Education of
Houston Ballet Academy.
Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco Policy
Houston Ballet Academy does not allow or tolerate drug use or underage drinking. All persons involved with the Academy,
including dancers, students, parents, guardians, faculty and staff, are prohibited from providing alcoholic beverages at any
location, including but not limited to private homes, to those who are not of legal age. No student under the age of 21 is
permitted to smoke or vape on Academy property.
Admissions to drug/alcohol use, violation of the tobacco policy, and/or if a student is found with an illegal substance will result
in the following:
• Parent(s)/Guardian(s) will be notified.
• Expulsion from the Academy as determined by evaluation.
• Suspension from the Academy as determined by evaluation. If a student is suspended, they will be required to:
• Participate in individual and/or group counseling (such as a Drug, Alcohol, or Tobacco Awareness Program), as
recommended by evaluation. Students are responsible for all costs and transportation to and from counseling
appointments.
• Participate in random drug/alcohol screening for one calendar year upon their return to Houston Ballet.
Lockers
Lockers, located in the dressing rooms on the third floor, are available for Level 5 - HBII students. Additional lockers are in the
first-floor bathrooms. Students should bring a combination lock to secure belongings. Please do not leave valuables in the locker
room, as the Academy is not responsible for lost or stolen items. To request a locker, contact the Student Services
Coordinator at MWilliams@houstonballet.org.
Unacceptable behaviors, whether occurring in class or outside the studio, include, but are not limited to:
• Violation of any law, Academy rule or policy
• Failure to observe proper studio protocol
• Lying, cheating or stealing
• Falsifying documents
• Theft (including attending Houston Ballet performances without a ticket)
• Destruction of property
18• Drug or alcohol use
• Any behavior that places other students, staff, visitors, innocent bystanders, and/or self in danger
• Verbal, written, on-line or physical harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation,
national origin or appearance
• Swearing, cursing, or yelling
• Smoking or vaping anywhere on campus
• Consequences for Unacceptable Behavior
• Verbal or written warnings
• Suspension or explosion from the Academy or the Center for Dance dormitory
• Early curfew and grounding at the dorm (if applicable)
• Referral to counseling
• Fines
• Probation
• Loss of scholarship or stipend (if applicable)
• Loss or suspension of privileges (such as use of equipment)
19HEALTH POLICIES
Student Physicals
Students in HBII are required to have a physical at the beginning of the Fall semester. Drug testing may be administered at this
pre-season physical.
If a student is not in HBII and under the age of 18, a guardian or responsible adult must accompany him/her to the doctor’s office
or clinic. Underage international students can complete their physical in their home country using Houston Ballet Academy’s
physical form. If a physical form was uploaded to CampDoc prior to the start of the 2019 Summer Intensive Program, you do not
need to resubmit a physical form. Additional forms will be required, such as general medical history and orthopedic history. All
health forms will be sent by the Academy.
Medical Insurance and Pharmacies / Medical Center
All students are required to be medically insured in order to dance in the Advanced Level and Professional Program. Proof of
insurance must be scanned and submitted to Megan Williams at MWilliams@houstonballet.org by August 17, 2019. Insurance
should be eligible in the state of Texas, and students must have a provider within network to avoid being sent home. Proof of
insurance does not need to be resubmitted if it was uploaded to CampDoc prior to the start of the 2019 Summer Intensive
Program.
International Students
Houston Ballet Academy’s policy states that international students are required to obtain health insurance through Pinnacle
Student Insurance (PSI) in order to participate in the Professional Program. Coverage would begin as of August 1, 2019 and
would last through July 31, 2020. Payments can be made directly to Pinnacle with a check, money order, Western Union, or a
credit card. Please note that pre-existing conditions are not covered by this plan. The Premier Silver plan offered by Pinnacle
Student Insurance is an accident/sickness plan. This plan will cover more medical expenses than other leading international
student insurance companies. International Students will receive a packet with more information.
Allergy Policy
If your child has an allergy or a medical condition which could result in a medical emergency, please make the Academy
Registrar aware at the time of registration.
If your child has an allergy, please also notify the Academy Director of Education and the Academy Director in writing at the
time of registration so that faculty members can be alerted. HBA is not a nut free campus. If your child carries an EpiPen, please
make the office and faculty aware of where the EpiPen is kept in your child’s dance bag. All administrative and artistic staff are
CPR certified; however, we do not have a medical specialist or Registered Nurse on site. Please be mindful this is a public
building and we are unable to anticipate all possible scenarios that would introduce allergens to the building.
Please educate your child about their allergy – they are their own best advocate!
• Ensure he or she has the right tools
• Discuss what is okay and not okay to eat
• Review what to do in case of an allergic reaction
• Teach them the best way to teach others about their own allergy
Influenza – (The Flu)
Students that have flu-like symptoms should not attend class and should make an appointment with their physician. Students
that are diagnosed with influenza should notify the Academy as soon as possible. If a student in Advanced-HBII, that is residing
in the dormitory or living without a parent/guardian, is diagnosed with influenza and the doctor recommends isolation, then the
parent/guardian of the student would be responsible for providing care and expenses for the isolation.
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