For Parents
Studio Policies & Procedures
2026–2027 Season
At Dance Moves of Charleston, we are deeply grateful for the trust you place in us to nurture and guide your dancer's journey. The following policies ensure a smooth, supportive, and organized experience for every family while allowing us to maintain the highest quality instruction.
1. Potty Training
We kindly ask that all dancers be fully potty trained and bathroom independent before participating in any Dance Moves of Charleston activities. This ensures a safe and comfortable experience for both your child and our staff.
2. Tuition Policies
All families must maintain an up-to-date payment method on file in their online account before classes begin.
Accepted Payment Methods
- •Credit or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) — 2.5% processing fee applies
- •ACH / bank routing number — no fees
- •Cash or check — no fees
Billing Schedule
- •Tuition is automatically processed on the 30th of each month for the following month (e.g., September tuition is processed August 30th).
- •All accounts are charged on the 10th of the month, regardless of auto-pay enrollment.
- •A $15 late fee is applied on the 11th of each month for any unpaid balances.
- •If tuition remains unpaid by the 15th, the student may not attend class until the balance is resolved.
- •Tuition is an evenly distributed amount across the school year and is not prorated, except in August. It remains the same regardless of holidays or studio closures.
We are unable to offer credits, refunds, or prorating for missed classes due to holidays, vacations, illness, pandemics, state-wide closures, or weather events.
Registration Fee
A non-refundable flat registration fee of $50 per family is required each school-year season, regardless of the number of siblings enrolled.
3. Monthly Tuition Rates
Discounts are applied per student and require enrollment in multiple classes for that individual dancer. School year rates (August–May):
| Classes Per Week | Monthly Tuition (Per Student) |
|---|---|
| 1 class | $90 per month |
| 2 classes | $170 per month |
| 3 classes | $258 per month |
| 4 classes | $345 per month |
| 5+ classes | $400 per month |
4. Annual Dance Recital
Our recital takes place at the end of May or the beginning of June each year. Pricing is subject to current costume costs and venue rental fees. Families will be notified of totals and payment schedules before any charges are processed. Dates are announced in September or before.
Opt-Out & Commitment Deadlines
- •Recital dates are announced in late September so families can make an informed decision.
- •Families must opt out by October 1 to avoid recital charges.
- •Recital fees begin October 1 and are divided into 6 monthly installments.
- •No refunds are given after the opt-out deadline.
- •If a student withdraws after committing, the remaining recital balance is due upon withdrawal.
- •Costumes will still be ordered and available for pickup for any withdrawn student.
5. Roll-Over Registration
To simplify re-enrollment, all currently enrolled dancers are automatically pre-registered for the next school year (August–May) based on class recommendations. There is no roll-over registration for summer sessions.
- •Families have a two-week drop/add period and are not obligated to continue.
- •Your account will not be charged until we receive your confirmation or the deadline passes.
- •Ample reminders will be sent before any charges are processed.
6. Sickness Policy
The well-being of our dancers and staff is a top priority. If your child is feeling unwell, please keep them home to rest and recover.
- •If a child arrives at the studio showing signs of illness, a parent will be contacted for immediate pickup.
7. Dress Code
Dress code is required and enforced for all classes. Please ensure all items are ready before class. Visit our online store or contact us to schedule a fitting at the studio.
View Full Dress Code8. Make-Up Class Policy
We understand that life happens! Each dancer may attend up to two make-up classes per class, per semester.
- •Make-up classes must be taken within the same semester as the missed class.
- •All make-up classes must be pre-scheduled through the studio office.
- •Missed make-up appointments still count toward the two-class maximum.
- •Summer Camp days are not eligible for make-up classes.
9. Drop-Off & Pick-Up
- •We are a Drop-Off Facility. Schedule a tour before your child starts!
- •Drop-off is at the front door 5 minutes before class, where a staff member will welcome your child.
- •Pick-up takes place inside the studio at the classroom at James Island and at the Benches at Nexton. Parents will come inside for pick-up only.
- •Preschool and Levels 1–2 dancers must be picked up by an adult inside the studio.
- •Level 3 and above may be released without an adult if a signed waiver is on file.
- •Please ensure your dancer is picked up no later than 5 minutes after class ends.
10. Cancellations, Refunds & Account Credit
School-Year Classes
- •A two-week written notice is required before the next tuition cycle to withdraw from a class (e.g., to drop in November, notify us by October 15).
- •If payment is processed before notice is received, no refund will be issued.
- •If you drop after the two-week window, you remain responsible for the upcoming month's payment.
Summer Classes & Camps
- •Summer class and camp fees are due at enrollment and are non-refundable.
- •Camp session switches are permitted with up to two weeks' notice, provided space is available, at no additional charge.
- •No refunds are issued for any summer programs.
11. Special Programs, Events & Birthday Parties
- •Birthday party deposits are non-refundable.
- •Cancellations for special programs (Parent Night Out, specialty classes, etc.) require one week's notice for account credit to be issued.
- •Last-minute cancellations are not eligible for refunds or credits.
12. Food, Invitations & Goody Bags
To ensure fairness and inclusivity for all families:
- •Any treats, invitations, or goody bags must be pre-approved by Dance Moves administration before being brought to the studio.
- •Items brought without prior approval will not be distributed until reviewed.
For approval, email Aimee@dancemovesofcharleston.com.
13. Medical Conditions & Behavior Plans
We are committed to supporting every dancer within our group environment.
- •Please notify us of any medical conditions or diagnoses by emailing Jessica@DanceMovesofCharleston.com.
- •A team member will follow up to schedule a conversation about your dancer's individual needs.
- •Dance Moves staff are trained professional dancers, not medical professionals. We welcome ABA or medical professional support in our classrooms when beneficial.
- •Behavior plans are developed on a case-by-case basis in collaboration with families.
- •Our goal is always to find a way for every child to participate in our program.
14. Email, Text & Communication
Dance Moves communicates primarily via email and text message. To ensure you receive all important updates:
- •Add @dancemovesofcharleston.com and no-reply@thestudiodirector.biz to your approved senders list and check your spam folder.
- •Save the number you receive texts from as "Dance Moves" so you don't miss any important information.
- •We cannot be held responsible for unread emails and texts. We will ALWAYS give you the information you need.
15. Photography & Social Media
We love celebrating our dancers! By registering with Dance Moves of Charleston, you grant permission for Dance Moves to use photos and videos of your dancer for promotional purposes.
- •If you prefer your child not be photographed or filmed, please email Aimee@dancemovesofcharleston.com. We will always respect your wishes.
Thank you for being part of the Dance Moves of Charleston family! We appreciate your support and your commitment to your dancer's growth and joy.
