Dance Team Constitution

DANCE TEAM CONSTITUTION

I. ORGANIZATION
A. This Constitution has been written and adopted for the Fort Collins High School Dance Team. The team and its Constitution are governed by Fort Collins High School and the dance team coaches, along with the athletic director.
B. Henceforth, the name of the organization shall be Fort Collins High School Varsity Dance
C. The purpose of varsity dance is to:
1. Create school spirit, pride and loyalty.
2. Promote interest in school activities and perform at school games.
3. Develop responsibility, teach self-respect, encourage honest effort, strive for perfection and develop character.
4. Teach teamwork and pride in a quality performance through maintaining high standards.
D. A Coach will be hired by the Poudre School District Board of Education upon recommendation of the Principal
1. The Coach will be responsible for the daily running and activities of the varsity dance team.
2. The Coach will be responsible for administering all disciplinary procedures.
3. The Coach, with the team leaders’ approval, may place certain restrictions on team members

II. ELIGIBILITY
A. Each member must maintain an eligible grade point average.
B. Each member must submit a completed Application Form and Parental Consent/Release Form BEFORE the annual tryouts take place.
1. The form must be signed by the candidate.
2. The form must be signed by the parent/guardian.
C. The team shall consist of a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 28 team members.
D. Alternates may be considered for the team (depending on COVID rulings).
E. Team Leaders/Captains may also be considered based on the team’s needs, experience, and leadership qualifications.
F. Students must be eligible in their academics in order to perform. Grade checks are sent out to coaches each Friday at 12p-this depicts eligibility for the following week.

III. ATTENDANCE
A. All students who participate in school activities must be in regular full-day attendance the day the activity is scheduled.
1. Full-day attendance is from the beginning of the first hour and remaining until the close of the last hour of classes.
B. To participate in a practice, a student must attend school hours.
1. This must be fully documented with the Attendance Secretary.
C. If a member is ill and misses ANY activity, he/she must be at HOME or seeking medical appointments.
D. If a member misses ANY practice, he/she will automatically be replaced by an Alternate for that particular performance.
1. An absence must be documented by the parent in writing with the Attendance Secretary.
2. All doctor appointments, etc. should be scheduled so they do not interfere with team activities.
E. All Alternates will attend all practices and performances.
1. Alternate performing order will be established on an alphabetical rotating basis.
2. If an Alternate misses an activity, they will drop to the bottom of the rotating order.
3. All absences must be documented by the parent with the Attendance Secretary.
F. All members must attend each activity in its entirety.
G. Work is not considered an excuse for missing any activity.

IV. UNIFORM
A. Each member will be expected to provide practice uniforms.
1. A complete list will be given to each candidate at tryouts.
2. Any financial problems should be discussed with the Coach.
B. Performance uniforms will be provided through team fund raising and will be the property of the team.
C. Each member will be required to maintain good condition and cleanliness of his/her uniform on a weekly basis.
D. Each member will be required to have all uniforms cleaned and in good condition before the end of the year.
E. Footwear and accessories such as makeup, bloomers, ribbons, etc. will be purchased by each member.

V. MEDICAL
A. Each member must have a complete physical exam before the first scheduled practice/performance.
B. A copy of the school medical form can be obtained from the school Athletic Secretary- Nichole Dahlseide located in the FCHS front office. *this is part of obtaining your orange card*
C. A member must also have a completed medical emergency form on file with the Coach.
1. The Coach must have these forms in her possession at all times.
2. The forms can be obtained from the school nurse.

VI. MEMBERSHIP AND CHARACTER
A. Team members should be leaders within the school and set a good example at all times.
B. Team members should be above reproach maintaining good personal appearance and habits that cannot be criticized.
1. Smoking, drinking and/or drug use are grounds for suspension or dismissal by the Coach.
2. Each member must abide by those standards set by Fort Collins High School which are found in the Student Handbook.
C. Members must be courteous and friendly to all other team members, opposing teams, visitors, as well as the student body.
D. Members of the Dance Team must gladly accept constructive criticism that will help attain personal growth and team precision.
E. Members must be respectful to the Coaches and FCHS staff members.
F. The term of membership shall be recognized as the time immediately following Dance Team tryouts through the next season’s tryout week.
G. A member’s resignation will be accepted only after all financial obligations are complete and all school owned property has been returned in acceptable shape.
H. Returning members must tryout each year and will not receive any preferential treatment.
I. Any student who transfers into FCHS and has been participating on a dance/drill team at another school may try out for the Dance Team IF space on the Dance Team is available. The transfer student MUST provide a letter of recommendation from their former Dance Company Director/coach and a report card showing passing grades and acceptable conduct.
J. Members must be willing to abide by the rules and follow all directions the first time asked.
K. Members must be willing to participate 100% in rehearsals, performances, competitions, appearances, fundraisers, and any other official Dance Team activities.
L. Members must understand any decisions that are made by the Dance Coaches are in the best interest of the team and FCHS and must maintain a positive attitude about all decisions.
M. Members MUST be willing to work hard mentally and physically to increase their strength, flexibility, and stamina throughout the dance season.
N. Members must try not to exceed 2 absences a semester and must give proper notice of a week or more in advance if the dancer is expecting to miss. Should any dancer exceed the limit of 2 practices being missed, it may result in demerits or being withdrawn from a routine.

VII. POINT/DEMERIT SYSTEM
A. Points or demerits will be used as a disciplinary tool.
B. They will be given by the Coach at the suggestion of the Team Leader/Captain.
C. Three points will result in the removal from a performance.
D. Six points will result in suspension for two weeks
E. Twelve points will result in dismissal from the team.
F. One point will be given for:
1. Tardiness at any team activity.
2. Chewing gum in practice.
3. Chewing gum in uniform.
4. Uniform inspection. –if the dancer does not have required/appropriate attire.
5. Disrespect toward Coach or Team Leaders/Captains.
6. No identification on uniform or its accessories.
7. Inappropriate practice uniform.
a. This would include any piece of the uniform.
b. This would also include inappropriate hair.
8. Forgotten props or accessories. –example: poms or bows for hair
9. Inappropriate performance makeup.
10. Absence which will also result in removal from performance.
G. Three points will be given for:
1. Unexcused absence.
2. Use of inappropriate language in uniform
3. Gossiping in uniform.
H. Six points, or suspension, will be issued for violation of above infractions totaling six points for
1. Smoking in uniform (some schools consider possession on school grounds, or at any activity, grounds for suspension, check your administration)
2. Lack of minimal grade requirements.
I. The following violations will result in automatic dismissal
1. Drinking in uniform.
2. Drug use in uniform.
J. Suspension means not attending any team function for two weeks.
1. Upon resuming team activities, the member will become an Alternate for one week and be ineligible to perform.
2. After completion of the “Alternate’s Week,” the member can resume regularly scheduled activities.
3. Two suspensions, or twelve points, will result in dismissal from the team.
K. Any school detention or school imposed discipline will be frowned upon by the team.
1. School detention, etc. will not be considered an excuse for missing any team practice or scheduled activity. Three points will be issued for such violation.

VIII. PARENTAL PERMISSION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
A. A parent/guardian MUST read the entire application packet and sign the permission slip included in the handbook. Parents/guardians are encouraged to speak to the Dance Coach about any questions or concerns.
B. Parents/guardians must be willing to meet all financial obligations involved in FCHS Dance, including, but not limited to dance clothes, shoes, and performance fees. FCHS Dance does its best to cover any and all costs, if possible, through fundraising and our seasonal allotted budget.
C. Parents/guardians are responsible for arranging transportation for their dancer to all activities, except when transportation is provided by the school district.

IX. REHEARSAL RESPONSIBILITIES
A. A regular practice schedule will be formatted based off of the collective availability of the members on the team, along with the coaches. Full participation is required during every rehearsal.
B. Before school, after school, and/or summer practice sessions may be necessary in preparation for concerts and/or competitions. Time specifications for these sessions will be established as they are available and attendance will be mandatory
C. Members MUST arrive on time to all rehearsals and will be dismissed only by the coaches.
D. It is the responsibility of each member to notify the Dance Coach of any planned absences.
E. Practices are considered MANDATORY.
F. Should a dancer become injured for any reason, excluding considerable circumstances, the dancer will still be expected to observe at rehearsal/practice.
G. Dancers are expected to be at rehearsal, on time, in the correct practice attire no later than 4:30pm or other designated practice times.
H. Should members have any conflicts with the scheduled rehearsals, it is expected that you let the coach know in as much of an advance as possible (Standard expectation is at least 4 practices prior to the date you are intending to miss)

X. PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES
A. During the week before or during a performance, there may be a dance performance test evaluated by the coaches. The coaches will make the final decision regarding who will perform. If a member is not selected for that performance, she/he will still be expected to practice and attend all activities.
B. If a member misses a rehearsal during the week of a performance, the coach may choose to remove her/him from the performance.
C. Any member suffering from illness or injury will be excused from a performance only by a written note from a physician.
D. Any member on probation will not be able to perform outside of the regular school day. All members on probation will be expected to fully participate in all rehearsals. The member must learn all dances and participate in all dance performance tests and other dance activities.
E. A complete uniform/costume check will be held prior to every FCHS Dance activity or performance. Uniform/costume checks will include hair, make-up, shoes, costume/uniform, accessories, and props if required. Fingernail polish and jewelry may not be worn with any part of the uniform unless it is part of the costume. Students wearing a dirty uniform/costume, missing required elements, or refusing to follow the Dance Coach’s instructions on hair, make-up, etc., will receive at least one week probation and will lose performance opportunities.
F. Members will be expected to conduct themselves in a positive and respectful manner at all times. There will be no talking, eating, drinking, or gum chewing unless the director has given permission. Disrespectful conduct will not be tolerated and may result in probation or dismissal from the Dance Team.
G. All rehearsals outside of school hours are considered closed-rehearsals. Visitors (family members, boyfriends, girlfriends, friends, etc.) are not allowed to attend unless the director has given permission.

XI. GRADING SYSTEM
A. Grades will be checked prior to all performances, competitions, and activities held before, during, or after school hours.
B. Dance Team members are expected to pass all of their courses and weekly grade checks will be submitted to the Dance Coach.
C. Dancers are considered ineligible after receiving their 2nd “F” in a single grade check (if a dancer only receives one F, they will still be considered eligible)

XII. PROBATION AND SUSPENSION
A. Failure to comply with any regulations as stated in this constitution will result in probation for the member in question until the reason for probation is corrected to the satisfaction of the Dance Coach and/or school principle. If the problem is not corrected as specified by the Coach and/or Principal, automatic suspension from the dance team will occur.
B. Students committing infractions of the rules will lose performance opportunities. Students who continue committing infractions of the rules may earn 1-6 weeks of probation or complete suspension from the team, depending on the severity of their infractions.
C. A member on probation MUST attend and actively watch, or perform alternative duties, but will not participate in any Dance Team performances or activities.
D. Any member assigned ISS for any reason may earn probation or complete suspension from the team. All final decisions will be made by the Dance Coaches and/or the FCHS Principal.
E. Any member suspended from FCHS for any reason will earn probation or complete suspension from the team. All final decisions will be made by the Dance Coach and/or the FCHS Principal.
F. Any member expelled from FCHS for any reason will be suspended from the team immediately.
G. Any member who becomes ineligible during grade checks will automatically be placed on probation. If she/he is eligible during next weekly grade check, her/his probation will be lifted automatically.

XIII. UNIFORMS COSTUMES AND EQUIPMENT
A. Members are expected to purchase their own dance clothes and shoes. The specific clothes and shoes required will be specified by the coaches and/or captains.
B. Members may be required to purchase their own costumes or accessories when necessary.
C. Uniforms/costumes may only be worn when selected by the Dance Coaches and approved by the FCHS Principal.
D. Uniforms/costumes and rehearsal attire MUST be kept clean and in good condition.
E. Only members of the Dance Team shall wear official Dance Team uniforms/costumes. Members should not loan uniforms/costumes to anyone else.
F. School issued items will be checked out to each member when necessary. Each member assumes 100% liability for the care and return of each item.

XIV. DANCE CAPTAINS AND LEADERSHIP OFFICERS
A. Leadership selection
i. Leadership may be selected at the beginning of each “dance” year. Each dance year begins in May and ends in April. At the discretion of the coaches, the leadership selection process will change from year to year. It is not mandatory that each season have captains/leadership. Should the season include a leadership team, the number of captains ultimately depends on the needs of the team.
ii. All leadership shall show respect to all team members. All team members shall show respect to leadership.
iii. Captains may help lead stretches and conditioning during practices, as well as help lead the team during performances.
iv. Leadership is to lead by example.
v. Leadership shall have constant communication with the coaches and their teammates.
vi. Leadership will be held responsible for extra work that may be needed for performances or other team involved activities.
vii. Leadership may be dismissed of their position by the coaches at any time.
B. Duties/Responsibilities of Officers
i. It is the duty of leadership/captains to carry out the commands of the dance coach.
ii. Leadership will assist the dance coaches in checking appearances, assisting in teaching and instructing the team, and making decisions relevant to the team.
iii. Leadership may be responsible for a squad of members ensuring that each member of their squad is informed, prepared and on task.
C. Termination of Officers
i. Failure of an officer to set a proper example and follow the guidelines and procedures of the dance team and the handbook and extracurricular code of conduct of FCHS may result in removal from his/her office.
ii. Should the season implement a demerit system, An officer will be removed from their office upon the accumulation of the 10th demerit and her parent/guardian will be notified of the demotion.

XV. FUNDRAISING
A. ALL members are required to participate in ALL fund raising, which is generated by the team. Please do your part so this program can grow. Your participation will help us to have enough funds in order to go to competition, purchase new costumes, and to provide supplies throughout the duration of our season
B. Any funds raised by a member will go directly into the dance account and is nonrefundable in the event that a member quits the team or is dismissed.

XVI. AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION
A. The Dance Coaches, the FCHS athletic director, and/or FCHS principal reserve the right to amend the Dance Constitution in the event that district, state, and/or federal laws change.
B. The Dance Coaches, the FCHS athletic director, and/or FCHS Principal reserve the right to amend the Dance Team Constitution as necessary to reflect school or departmental changes.
C. All changes to the constitution must be submitted to every current member.