Help us achieve excellence for your dancer!

Parent Partnership with the Academy

The Academy of Nickerson-Rossi Dance offers a comprehensive dance education focused on classical styles, ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz, and hip-hop techniques. Founded by Artistic Director Michael Nickerson-Rossi, the Academy provides a strong foundation for dancers aspiring to enter collegiate dance programs or pursue professional dance careers.

Communication

The Academy primarily communicates via email. Please check your inbox regularly for updates regarding events, closures, and important information.
Please do not contact faculty directly. For any questions or concerns, contact an Academy Director or Front Desk Staff.

Contact Information:
📧 Email: academy@nickersonrossidance.com
📞 Palm Desert: 760.895.8320
📞 Palm Springs: 760.992.6075

Dress Code

All students are expected to adhere to the Academy’s dress code at all times. For full details or questions, visit:
nickersonrossidance.com/dress-code

Attendance

Consistent attendance is essential for dancer growth and progress.
If your child will be absent, please notify the Academy in advance.
Make-up classes are not guaranteed but may be arranged based on availability.
No refunds are issued for missed classes under any circumstances.

Student Drop-Off / Parent Check-In

Students in 8th grade and younger are required to have a parent or guardian check in students, and cannot drop off students in the parking lot.

Tardiness

Students should arrive at least 5 minutes before class.
If a student is more than 10 minutes late and the Academy has not been informed, the student may be asked to sit out of the class.

Late Payments

If payment is not submitted on time, your credit card on file will be charged.

Cleanliness & Property

Please remove all trash and personal items after class. Trash cans are available outside the studios.
The Academy is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items.
Lost items will be held for 30 days and then discarded if unclaimed.

Class Observation

To maintain a focused and distraction-free learning environment:

Class observation is not permitted, except during designated times.
Parents are invited to watch the last 5 minutes of class and may speak with staff during the 15-minute transition period between classes.
We kindly ask that families drop off and pick up their dancers on time.

Academy Calendar

Stay informed about Academy closings, class schedule changes, and upcoming events:
📅 nickersonrossidance.com/academycalendar

Open Door Policy

We value transparent and supportive communication.
If you have questions or concerns about your child’s progress, please contact the Academy to schedule a meeting with a Director.

Let me know if you'd like a version formatted for a print handout, email, or webpage—I'm happy to adjust it for your needs.

Student Partnership

Parents are responsible for reviewing and reinforcing the following expectations with their dancer to ensure their success within the Academy.

Student Partnership Code of Conduct

At the Academy of Nickerson-Rossi Dance, we are committed to providing the highest level of dance education in a respectful, positive, and nurturing environment. To help maintain this standard, students are expected to follow the guidelines below:

Tardiness & Attendance

Arrive at class on time—ideally 5 minutes early.
Avoid missing class or rehearsals whenever possible.
If you are more than 10 minutes late and no parent has contacted the Academy with an excuse, you may not be allowed to participate in class.

Cleanliness

Keep the Academy neat and clean.
Do not touch or lean on the mirrors.
Only eat in the designated student area.
Do not throw away food or drinks inside the facility; use the trash cans located outside.
Store bags and dance items under the chairs or in the green room.

Etiquette

Do not sit down during class unless instructed by the teacher.
No chewing gum during class.
Use the restroom before or after class.
Phones are not to be used during class time.
Do not hang or lean on the ballet barres inappropriately.

Dress Code

Follow the dress code for each class as outlined by the Academy.
Maintain a professional appearance at all times.
Do not wear dance shoes outside; carry them in a dance bag.
Label all dance shoes and gear with your name.
Avoid wearing distracting jewelry in class.
Use deodorant, but refrain from overpowering perfumes or scents.
Remove street shoes before walking onto the dance floor.

Safety

Wait inside the studio until your ride arrives.
Use the buddy system when walking to your car or ride.

Responsibility

Bring home all notices and communications for your parents.
Respect your art, your instructors, and your peers—we are in this together.
Be welcoming and inclusive to new students.

Behavior

Practice at home and be prepared for class, even if you missed the previous week.
Maintain a positive, “can-do” attitude.
Ask dance-related questions politely during class.
Refrain from gossiping or speaking negatively about others.
No bullying or inappropriate physical contact.
Use quiet voices in the studio and while waiting for class.
Work as a team with your fellow students.
Always use respectful and appropriate language.
Speak to teachers and classmates with courtesy.

No Tolerance Policy for Bullying

Bullying of any kind is not tolerated at the Academy. If you ever feel unsafe, threatened, or uncomfortable due to another student’s behavior, please speak with your teacher or an Academy Director immediately. We are here to support you.

You are also encouraged to talk to any Academy staff if you have concerns or questions—your voice matters.