Tuition Schedule & Studio Policies

What you need to know

Tuition Schedule

GADA school-year tuition is averaged into 9 monthly payments. These payments are based on 32 weeks of instruction, with a week off at Thanksgiving, two weeks over the Winter Holidays, and a week off during Spring Break.

The hourly pricing is based on the amount of time that a student is dancing per week, not the number of classes they are attending. Sibling hours are combined. For instance, if a student is taking 1 one hour ballet class, and 1 one and a half hour jazz class, that student would be dancing 2.5 hours per week, at a monthly cost of $151.00. When multiple family members are taking classes, the hours are calculated collectively. As an example, If one dancer is taking 1 one hour class, and their sibling is taking two-1 hour classes, then the family is dancing 3 hours per week, at a monthly cost of $176.00.

There is a $55 individual registration fee (once annually). Single student unlimited classes begin at 4.5 hours. Family unlimited classes begin at 8 hours. Sibling hours are combined.

These must be agreed to using our online registration system when registering for classes

Automated Payments

For summer camps, a $50 deposit is charged using the card provided at registration. DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. For summer classes, the full summer tuition is charged using the card provided at registration. (No registration fees for summer classes). TUITION IS NON-REFUNDABLE.

For 2020-21 classes, when a child registers the $55 student registration fee is automatically charged upon registration. (This is a ONCE annual fee). Tuition auto draft will begin Sept 2nd and will be drafted EACH month Sept-May. If the school year has already begun, the current month tuition will be prorated and charged as well. DEPOSITS/TUITION is NON-REFUNDABLE.

TUITION balances will be billed automatically using the card on file on the 2nd of each month. If another payment method is preferred, balances must be paid using another method before the 2nd or else the card on file will be charged.

All accounts will receive an emailed receipt after any charges are made.

Monthly tuition is never pro-rated but determined from an average of entire classes from Sept-May. Fees and/or tuition are NOT refunded. Tuition will be AUTO DRAFTED on the 2nd of each month using the card provided at registration. Should a parent wish to use another method for payment, they are welcome to do so but payment MUST BE MADE before the 2nd to avoid the auto draft. (NO EXCEPTIONS). Tuition and/or registration fees cannot be refunded. Failure to make payment by the 8th (or update credit cards) will result in a $15 late fee.

For THIS SEASON, costume and recital fees will NOT be included in monthly tuition. Let me be honest, and tell you I am most proud that under normal circumstances we are able to bundle ALL of the costs into monthly tuition rates. However, these are certainly not normal circumstances. From my interactions the past few months, I think everyone respects flexibility right now. There are still so many unknowns. I want parents to enroll with the assurance they will have options without penalty in months to come. Therefore, I feel best offering a monthly tuition rate that is based on 32 weeks of classes (beginning the day after Labor Day, taking a week off at Thanksgiving, 2 weeks over the Holidays, and a spring break week). (On a positive note, this is the first time we have EVER decreased monthly tuition costs with a new season:). I would LOVE to promise a traditional recital at the big stage with all the costumes. By all means, that is our goal - but I would be lying if I tried to guarantee that at this point. As we progress through fall and gain a better idea of what spring will hold, we will then make plans for spring performances. As we do so, everyone will have the option to commit (or not commit) to the performance and costume fees. This allows everyone the freedom to drop at any point throughout 2020-21. For planning purposes, traditionally our spring recital would take place on SATURDAY, MAY 22nd next season (2021). While we cannot guarantee that date, we encourage everyone to pencil that weekend in. Costume fees will run approx. $50 per costume, and will be due Nov-Dec. We will absolutely communicate all these details as the year progresses.

It is speculated that schools may have some closures, should numbers spike as the school year continues. We certainly do not have any plans to shut down our live-instruction again. Our goal is to offer live classes throughout the season (especially since ALL of our classes will have room for socially distanced dancers)! However, should it become unsafe to hold dance classes in person, we would immediately switch over to live zoom classes (links will already be setup and everyone will already have access through class folders and weekly communication.). All classes would take place at regularly scheduled times through the permanent zoom links set up for the new season. Class mates and teachers would remain the same, as well as class length and study. Should MORE than half a month be offered virtually, we would run the FOLLOWING monthly tuition with a 25% discount applied. (For example, if your monthly tuition is $100 and your child had 3 classes taught virtually in November, the December tuition would run at $75.) Our class drop policy will remain the same. Everyone will have the option to drop at any point, but you must let us know by the FIRST of the month to avoid being drafted tuition on the SECOND

A $25 fee is assessed for any and all returned checks.

Physical Activity Assumption of Risk

I understand that participation in any instructional and/or recreational activities at Greater Austin Dance Academy is voluntary, and that all Programs and the use of the related facilities and equipment therein carries some physical risk.

I understand that if I or my minor child is injured or our property is damaged while participating in the Programs, that the injury or loss will not be covered or reimbursable by Greater Austin Dance Academy.

I agree to assume the risk of any and all illness or injury (minor, serious or catastrophic in nature, including claims and suits at law or in equity for any injury, fatal or otherwise) or damage (to person or property) resulting from my/our minor child's participation in all Programs, including the use of the facilities and/or equipment associated with the Program ("Damages").

I hereby waive all claims, on behalf of myself/ourselves and claims by my/our minor child (including claims which may be brought after attaining majority), now or in the future, for any such Damages and do hereby release and discharge Greater Austin Dance Academy and its respective officers, directors, instructors, agents, employees and assigns from any and all liability for any such Damages.

I assume full responsibility for all liability in connection with such Damages, and agree to indemnify Greater Austin Dance Academy
against any and all such claims and related costs, including claims by my/our minor child that may be brought after attaining majority.

I certify that the participant is in good health and that he/she has no physical limitations which would preclude him/her from the safe use of the facilities and equipment related to the Programs offered by Greater Austin Dance Academy and that I/we have sufficient health, accident and liability insurance to cover any Damages that may result as a result of my/our child participating in the Programs, and if I/we have no such insurance, I/we certify that I/we am/are capable of personally paying for any and all such Damages.

Medical Emergencies

I fully understand that Greater Austin Dance Academy's instructors, agents and employees ("GADA Staff") are not physicians or medical practitioners of any kind. With the above in mind, I/we hereby release and grant permission to the GADA Staff to render temporary first aid to my/our child in the event of any injury or illness, and if deemed necessary by the GADA Staff to call a doctor to seek medical help, including transportation by an GADA Staff member, whether paid or volunteer, to any health care facility or hospital, or the calling of an ambulance for said child should the GADA Staff deem this to be necessary.

Payment Policies

I understand that monthly tuition is never pro-rated but determined from an average of entire classes from Sept-May (32 weeks of classes). 2020-21 Recital costume costs will be billed separately in Nov/Dec. I realize fees and/or tuition is NOT refundable, and that it must be paid by the 8th of a month to avoid a $15 late fee (NO EXCEPTIONS). Tuition and/or registration fees cannot be refunded.

I understand that ALL accounts are automatically enrolled in AUTOPAY on the billing tab, in which case any balance on my account will automatically be charged to the card on file on the SECOND of each month (or for summer camps, one week before camp start date). If I do not wish to have my account paid with the card on file, it is my responsibility to make my payments BEFORE the second using another method (cash, check, etc)

I understand a $25 fee is assessed for any and all returned checks.

Observation/Lobby Policy

Due to Covid health regulations, the GADA LOBBY will remain closed for the upcoming months. For younger classes (CM I, CM II, BT I, BT II, Hip-Hop I and MT Jr) ONE adult will be allowed to escort the child into the lobby (or we will have available staff at the door to walk your child to the correct studio). That parent will be allowed to stay with the child on a socially distanced spot until the class begins. When the class begins, the adult will need to leave the lobby.

As classes finish, teachers will walk dancers to parents who can wait on a socially distanced spot inside (coming back inside the studio 5 min before classes end), or to the front porch area where we will safely connect dancers to parents.

ANYONE who enters our lobby (dancers and/or adults) will stop for a temperature check and hand sanitizer when entering the building. Students showing any symptoms or fevers greater than 100.4 will NOT be allowed to stay for class. GADA teachers and staff will remain masked at this time. Any adults entering the lobby will be required to wear a mask as a courtesy to others. Dancers ages 10 and older will be asked to wear a mask in and out of the lobby, but may take it off when they get inside the dance studio. Masks for younger dancers are optional, and at the discretion of each parent.

If your child stays for a combo class (such as level 1 ballet, tap, and jazz) they will stay in the SAME studio space for all three classes. We have designed the schedule to minimize dancers moving between studios.

If you have an older dancer that takes multiple classes in one evening, they WILL be allowed to stay in the lobby between classes. We have placed socially distanced spots in our lobby and would ask they find a spot to stay (with a book or homework) until their next class begins.

Students will bring dance bags/belongings with them into the studios and leave on socially distanced spots around the room. Floors, doorknobs, barres, and props will be cleaned between classes.

I also understand I MUST obtain permission form the faculty or director to take ANY PHOTOS or VIDEO during a class. PLEASE DO NOT hold any cameras/phones to the viewing windows without prior consent

Code of Conduct / Social Media Policy

Greater Austin Dance Academy is dedicated to providing quality dance instruction in a safe and nurturing environment. Any inappropriate or slanderous remarks about GADA, it's staff members or students on any social media site will be cause for immediate dismissal from the studio. No phones or cameras are allowed to be held to studio viewing windows during class time without advance approval from the director or instructor.

Attitudes that are disrespectful, uncooperative, or aggressive do not have a place at GADA.
Students will not speak negatively about one another or the instructors.
Any parent/guardian or student who disrupts class or approaches a teacher, staff member, another student or parent with the intent to cause dissent or contravene the policies and procedures of GADA will be dismissed immediately.
Any inappropriate or slanderous remarks about GADA or it's staff members or other students on any social media site will be cause for immediate dismissal from the studio.
If you have a concern or grievance you must make an appointment with the studio director, Sally Reyes, or you are welcome to send an appropriate email to discuss the issue.

Drop Policy

WRITTEN NOTICE must be given to FRONT OFFICE BY THE FIRST of the month to avoid tuition charge for the month. A drop form can also be filled out online. Tuition billed on the 2nd is NOT REFUNDABLE. Auto-drafted tuition WILL not be refunded if drop notice is received after the first of the month.

No notices are needed for summer camps or classes since they exist as independent sessions.

Dress Code

I understand my child must wear appropriate attire for the class they are registered for.

Age 2-3
- Any color leotard, tights and pink ballet shoes (boys = black)
Age 4, 5, and 6
- Any color leotard, tights and pink ballet shoes, black tap shoes (boys = black)
LEVEL BALLET CLASSES
- (ballet) PINK TIGHTS and ANY BLACK Leotard, hair pulled up in bun, braid, etc
- (tap) Black Tap shoes (transition to oxford tap shoes)
- (jazz) any color leotard, shorts or leggings (tights optional), tan jazz shoes
Musical Theater
- (jr) activewear and clean athletic shoes
- (level 1) activewear and tan jazz shoes
- (level 2) activewear and tan pedinis
- (level 3 and 4) activewear and tan character heels
Hip-Hop
- (all levels) activewear and CLEAN sneakers ONLY to be worn inside the studio
Contemporary/Lyrical
- (all levels) barefoot
Drill Prep
- (all levels) form fitting activewear/jazz shoes).

I understand I am responsible for necessary shoes and/or outfits needed for specific dance classes.

Pick-up

Dancers may not be dropped off or picked up from summer camps more than 10 minutes from start time.

If a parent is running late for pick-up, please call the front desk to let us know. Consistent tardiness past 5 min pick-up window will result in late pick-up charges.

Calendar

I understand Greater Austin Dance Academy operates on a September-May calendar, beginning with the first day of classes following Labor Day each fall. The academy then operates on a 32 week session of classes - taking weeks off for thanksgiving, holiday break, and spring break. While Labor Day is closed, all other single Monday holidays will still have classes. In the event of inclement weather, check the studio website or phone message for further information. The studio follows RRISD weather days.

End of Year Performance

GADA would LOVE to promise a traditional recital at the big stage with all the costumes. By all means, that is our goal - but we would be lying if we guaranteed that at this point. As we progress through fall and gain a better idea of what spring will hold, we will then make plans for spring performances. As we do so, everyone will have the option to commit (or not commit) to the performance and costume fees. This allows everyone the freedom to drop at any point throughout 2020-21. For planning purposes, traditionally our spring recital would take place on SATURDAY, MAY 22nd next season (2021). While we cannot guarantee that date, we encourage everyone to pencil that weekend in. Costume fees will run approx. $50 per costume, and will be due Nov-Dec. We will absolutely communicate all these details as the year progresses.

ZOOM/Photo/Video and Teacher Comunication

Every class will be set up with a permanent ZOOM-LINK. Every teacher will have a GADA email that parents can use if you ever have questions or concerns with the dance instruction of your child. Weekly classes will take place at the studio, but ALSO have a live zoom link that will be recorded each week. This allows parents to see their children in class, allows dancers to make-up classes afterwards with recordings, and allows dancers to take from home if there is ever hesitation about coming to class throughout the season. Zoom links will be the new policy for make-up classes. Live make-up classes will no longer be offered.

I acknowledge that my child will be videotaped or photographed for educational, promotional, or performance purposes. (Recitals are professionally recorded each spring).

Make-up Policy

Weekly classes will take place at the studio, but ALSO have a live zoom link that will be recorded each week. This allows parents to see their children in class, allows dancers to make-up classes afterwards with recordings, and allows dancers to take from home if there is ever hesitation about coming to class throughout the season. Zoom links will be the new policy for make-up classes. Live make-up classes will no longer be offered.

Pay Class Tuition

2021-22 Tuition Table - vertical

Hours per Week	Cost/Month
30-45 Minutes	$70
1 Hour	$76
1.5 Hours	$110
2 Hours	$145
2.5 Hours	$175
3 Hours	$205
3.5 Hours	$235
4 Hours	$265
4.5 Hours *single student max	$290
5 Hours	$320
5.5 Hours	$340
6 Hours	$365
6.5 Hours	$395
7 Hours	$425
8 Hours	$485
9 Hours *family max rate	$545

There is a $55 individual registration fee. Single student rates become unlimited at 4.5 hours of classes per week. Family rates become unlimited at 9 hours. Sibling hours are combined. (Tuition rates are broken down to the quarter hour. Please call/email front desk for quarter hour tuition rates). See the Tuition & Policies page for more details.