As a member, you will have responsibilities and obligations to meet. We expect you to do your part, be at rehearsals, practice individually, participate in fundraisers, etc. Most of all, we expect that in everything you do, both inside and outside our program, you will strive for excellence. Your commitment will ensure our success as an extraordinary program. We want this opportunity to be the best possible experience for you, so we do expect that you will give it your all in both rehearsals and performances. As with any activity, you get out of it what you put into it. We want the best for you, and will give you opportunities to explore your creativity as well as your strength (both physical and mental).
One of the keys to a successful program is that the proper attitude is present among its members. It is vital that all members cooperate with instructors and student leaders in order to insure the best possible experience for all. Those students who exhibit an unwillingness or inability to do this will be suspended or removed from the program.
It is imperative that all members understand that attendance at all rehearsals and performances is mandatory. The schedule for rehearsals and performances may vary according to weather, competition schedule, changes in the show, etc., but every effort will be made to keep changes to the announced schedule to a minimum. Please note that unexcused absences are not acceptable.
Attendance Policy
Every member is vital to the success of the unit, and the absence of any member is a detriment to the unit. Perfect attendance is expected at every practice. Color guard is a team activity and when one team member does not fulfill their commitment it hurts the entire unit. For this reason, it is extremely important to schedule other events around your rehearsal schedule. Because color guard is a theatrical production it is relatively simple to take members in or out of the show depending upon their attendance records.
Therefore, attendance at all practices and performances is required. The following reasons will count for an excused absence:
1. Absence from school that day due to illness (if you go home after school a doctor’s note may be required)
2. Family emergency (requires a note at the next attended rehearsal)
3. Special circumstances (determined by Guard Director or Band Director)
The following are NOT reasons to miss practice or performances:
1. Work, job interviews, job training. We are happy to contact employers to ensure students are not penalized at work. Show your band calendar to your manager far enough in advance that he/she does not schedule conflicts for you.
2. “Couldn’t find a ride” – Plan ahead
3. School detentions – you have a commitment to the group – stay out of trouble!
4. Social events (dances, picnics, etc.)
Life has a way of throwing curve balls at us. If you have an unusual circumstance, please discuss the problem with a guard staff member. We will try to be reasonable while being consistent with policy and, most importantly, looking after the welfare of the whole group.
- Please turn in a list of all rehearsals you cannot attend before the first December rehearsal!
Attendance Policy Consequences
1. First unexcused absence: no consequence ,except unhappy staff and peers!
2. Second unexcused absence: write a paper with your definition of the following terms: dedication, commitment, and responsibility
3. Unexcused absences may result in a cut from a section of the show that may be learned during the missed rehearsal
4. Three or more unexcused absences may result in dismissal from the guard.
Rehearsal Expectations
Rehearsal attire:
Because of the intensive dance background that is modern color guard it is imperative that members dress appropriately for rehearsal. Appropriate rehearsal attire includes:
· Shorts, dance pants, tights, capri pants, sweat pants,
· (not too baggy)(no jeans)
· sports bra, leotard, or tank top, T-shirts (not too baggy)
· dance shoes or sneakers