1.0 Acro Safety Policy Newcastle Family Connection (NFC) is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and developmentally appropriate environment for all dancers participating in Acro classes. This policy outlines specific safety guidelines tailored to each age group and skill level to promote physical well-being, build confidence, and support progressive skill development in a structured, inclusive and supportive setting.

2.0 General Safety Guidelines

All Acro teachers at NFC must:

• Be trained or certified in Acro instruction (Acrobatic Arts or equivalent).

• Warm up students thoroughly before skill work begins.

• Use mats at all times, especially for tumbling, balances, and inversions.

• Teach progressions — do not introduce advanced skills until prerequisites are secure.

• Avoid spotting skills you are not trained to assist. Seek support or modify the lesson as needed.

• Maintain a clear, clutter-free studio space.

• Ensure proper student footwear (bare feet only).

• Supervise all skill attempts and ensure students understand how to enter and exit safely.

• Encourage verbal check-ins with students about comfort, readiness, and safety.

3.0 PreAcro

Age/Grade: Kindergarten (Ages 4–5)

Level: Introductory

Focus:

• Developing body awareness, balance, coordination, and safe movement

• Introducing foundational shapes and skills (tuck, straddle, lunge, bridge prep)

• Starting with basic movements like rolls, pre-cartwheel drills, and animal walks

Age-Specific Safety Guidelines:

• Use playful language and props to engage attention and encourage correct form.

• Limit inversions to instructor-assisted forward rolls on incline mats.

• Do not allow unsupported bridges or headstands.

• Always spot closely during balance or inversion drills.

• Maintain a maximum 1:6 teacher-to-student ratio.

• Provide regular movement breaks and limit time on challenging drills.

• No prior experience required.

4.0 Intro to Acro

Age/Grade: Grade 1+

Level: Beginner

For dancers who are new to Acro or still developing foundational skills.

Skill Focus:

• Forward rolls, cartwheel prep, pre-bridge shapes

• Building strength, flexibility, and safe tumbling technique

• Working toward independently executing a cartwheel

Age-Specific Safety Guidelines:

• Teach bridge only if proper alignment and core strength are demonstrated

• Spot all inversion and bridge attempts until consistent safe execution is observed.

• Emphasize form and control over speed. Use visual cues and guided repetition.

5.0 Continuing Acro

Age/Grade: Grade 1+

Level: Early Intermediate

For dancers with prior Acro experience who can confidently perform a cartwheel.

Skill Focus:

• Cartwheels, handstands, bridge kickovers

• Development of transitions, strength, and flexibility

• Introductory walkover drills and conditioning

Age-Specific Safety Guidelines:

• Confirm bridge control and shoulder strength before introducing kickovers.

• Use mats and spotting for handstands and walkovers.

• Continue to reinforce exit strategies (safe falling, tucking).

• Introduce basic strength drills to prepare for work in future levels.

6.0 Junior/Intermediate Advanced Acro

Age/Grade: Grade 4–9

Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Requirements:

• Can confidently perform cartwheels and bridges

• Several years of Acro experience

Skill Focus:

• Back and front walkovers, variations of balances and inversions

• Development of strength-based skills and dynamic transitions

Age-Specific Safety Guidelines:

• Emphasize proper spinal alignment and shoulder engagement in walkovers.

• Spot or station students for balance-based inversions.

• Monitor for overuse or strain from repetitive skills.

• Ensure progressions toward handsprings follow prerequisite mastery and use drills/mats.

7.0 Intermediate/Senior Advanced Acro

Age/Grade: Grade 7–12

Level: Advanced

Requirements:

• Can confidently perform cartwheels and bridges

• Several years of experience, with strong technique and body control

Skill Focus:

• Front/back handsprings (based on readiness), advanced balances, and contortion elements

• Strong emphasis on strength, power, and safe landings

• Performance-quality transitions and tumbling sequences

Age-Specific Safety Guidelines:

• Assess individual readiness before introducing flight-based skills (e.g., handsprings).

• Require use of mats and/or spotting until consistent, controlled execution is demonstrated.

• Emphasize wrist, shoulder, and core conditioning to reduce injury risk.

• Encourage rest/recovery protocols to manage physical demands.

1.0 Purpose

Newcastle Family Connection Inc. (NFC) recognizes the need to adhere to the principles of Bill 3, Sabrina’s Law. This policy and related Administrative Procedures provide direction to all staff, parents, and the dance community in understanding and fulfilling the company’s responsibilities regarding anaphylaxis.

2.0 Policy

It is the policy of NFC to develop awareness about the management of allergens, establish avoidance strategies to reduce the management of allergens, establish avoidance strategies to reduce the risk of exposure, provide training on dealing with life-threatening allergies, and develop emergency response procedures.

3.0 Guidelines

3.1 NFC is legally unable to guarantee zero exposure to allergens, but shall outline strategies to reduce the risk.

3.2 NFC shall provide resources to ensure staff training for Allergy Awareness that include avoidance strategies as well as emergency procedures for life-threatening allergies.

3.3 The Board shall ensure that members of NFC address anaphylaxis awareness, avoidance, and emergency procedures.

3.4 Each teacher shall receive a Prevention and Management Anaphylaxis Plan to address students with anaphylaxis during class time.

4.0 Terms and Definitions

4.1 Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction to any stimulus, having sudden onset, involving one or more body systems with multiple symptoms. The symptoms can be fatal, resulting in circulatory collapse or shock.

4.2 Allergens

In Canada the most common allergens are:

• Foods

• Insect stings (eg yellow jackets, wasps, bees)

• Medication

The less common allergens are:

• Latex

• Exercise

It is important to note that any food can cause a reaction. In Canada, nine foods are listed as causing 90% of all life-threatening reactions. They include:

• Peanuts

• Tree Nuts (almonds, hazelnut, cashews, pistachio)

• Milk

• Egg

• Fish

• Shellfish

• Sesame seeds

• Soya

• Wheat

Hidden sources of allergens could include:

• Insects

• Play dough

• Stuffed Toys

• Crayons

• Cosmetics

• Suntan Lotions

• Disposable Gloves

• Plastic Containers

These are the most common allergens, but are not an exclusive list.

5.0 The Prevention and Management Anaphylaxis Plan

NFC’s duty is to provide a safe environment for all students. The Prevention and Management Plan shall fulfil their obligations by:

• Sharing information and creating awareness

• Developing reasonable procedures for avoidance of potentially anaphylactic situations

• Executing appropriate emergency procedures

While recognizing the parent’s rights to food choices for their child; most parents acknowledge the right to life and safety as greater, and will support procedures which protect the allergic child.

6.0 References and Related Documents

Bill 3, Sabrina’s Law - Statutes of Ontario 2005

Anaphylaxis Canada www.anaphylaxis.ca

Links to material and sites

• www.eworkshop.on.ca

• www.aaia.ca

• www.allergysafecommunities.ca

• www.anaphylaxis.ca

1.0 Our Vision & Commitment

Newcastle Family Connection (NFC) is a not-for-profit, charitable organization that has proudly served the Clarington community for over 30 years. We offer affordable recreational dance classes for families, and our operations are overseen by a dedicated volunteer board of directors.

Our pricing reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility. We offer a single, all-inclusive fee for the entire dance season—there are no surprise costs. Costume rentals and a professional photo page are included, so you won't have to worry about paying extra for pictures or outfits later in the year. We also offer discounts for multiple classes and family members.

Our dance season runs from late September to the end of May, after which we break for the summer. At the end of the season, students have the chance to shine on stage during our year-end performance. Copies of the show are available for purchase.

NFC is proud to offer programs for both children and adults in a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment. We are LGBTQ2S+ friendly and committed to creating a space where everyone feels respected and valued.

2.0 Communication

2.1 All of our newsletters, class schedules, recital information, and registration information are sent via email. Newsletters are put out several times a season and are loaded with great information. All handouts are posted on the dance bulletin board upstairs at the arena and online through our Parent Portal. You may add multiple email addresses (for additional parents/guardians) to your file. It is important to have your current email on file with us to keep up to date with NFC news.

If you have not received any emails or wish to add additional email addresses, please contact us at newcastlefamilyconnection@gmail.com to confirm that we have your correct email. It is very important for all families if you would like to receive these messages from us, to acknowledge this policy agreement.

2.2 Opt-Out

Should you wish to opt out of our email list please just say "please remove me from your list" in the subject line of an email and your email address will be removed. We do not send emails to anyone who does not explicitly provide us with permission to do so. Opting out will not remove your access to the Parent Portal

2.3 Privacy

Our primary form of communication to families is through email. In order to protect your privacy we send all emails bcc.

2.4 Consent

By acknowledging this agreement you are giving us permission to send you emails.

3.0 Recital Program

Newcastle Family Connection runs from September to May and ends with a year-end show every year. It provides an opportunity for every dancer to participate in this entertaining production. No dancer should miss the opportunity to participate. NFC also offers a scholarship program to offer tuition relief. The cost of one recital ticket is included in the cost of registration to ensure every dancer has someone to cheer them on.

This year our recital theme is "Reel Rhythms" and is tentatively scheduled for Friday, May 22, 2026 at 6:30pm and Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 10:30am. Classes are offered Monday - Saturday in styles such as Acro, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Jazz Funk and Musical Theatre, as well as preschool and kindergarten classes.

Age Groups:

Preschool (born in 2022)

Kindergarten (born in 2021 - 2020)

Introduction, Grade 1 - 3 (born in 2017 - 2019)

Junior, Grade 4- 6 (born in 2014 - 2016)

Intermediate, Grade 7 - 9 (born in 2011 - 2013)

Senior, Grade 10 - 12 (born in 2008 - 2010)

4.0 Program Costs

4.1 Registration

At the time of registration, a non-refundable registration fee of $10.00 per dancer is required. This fee helps cover essential administrative costs, including:

• Insurance

• Processing fees

• Platform Costs

• Costume Coordination

Please note: Registration fees are non-refundable under any circumstances.

4.2 Tuition

At Newcastle Family Connection (NFC), tuition is all-inclusive, covering the full season with no hidden fees for core program activities. Tuition includes:

• Weekly dance instruction (approximately 34 weeks)

• One (1) general admission ticket to the recital (recital of your choice)

• One (1) complimentary professional photo page of your dancer and their class

• Costume rental for the recital, including all required accessories

Tuition Does NOT Cover:

• Costume Deposit: A $20 refundable deposit is due at the time of costume pick-up and returned upon costume drop-off in good condition.

• Additional Recital Tickets: One ticket is included; extra tickets are available during the month of April.

• Spiritwear: Optional NFC Branded Spiritwear is available for purchase separately.

• Fundraisers: Participation is optional and not required.

• Black Dance Shoes: Needed for recital

4.3 Preschool and Kindergarten Discounts

To reflect the shorter class durations for younger students, Newcastle Family Connection offers the following discounted seasonal tuition rates:

• Preschool Classes (30 minutes): $295 for the season

• Kindergarten Classes (40 minutes): $305 for the season

• All Other Classes (55 minutes): $315 for the season

Note: Tuition fees listed above do not include the $10 per dancer registration fee.

These rates apply to the full dance season.

4.4 Multi-Child Discount

To support families, NFC offers the following tuition discounts for multiple children enrolled from the same household:

• 15% discount for the second child

• 50% discount for the third child and each additional child

Discounts are automatically applied to the lowest-cost registrations. Please note discounts do not apply to registration fee.

4.5 Multi-Class Discount

A 15% tuition discount will be applied to the second and each additional class that a child registers for within the same dance season. Please note discounts do not apply to registration fee, however registration fees are charged per dancer.

5.0 Payments, Withdrawal and Refund Policy

5.1 Payments

Families will have the option to pay all at once or in four installment payments due October 20th 2025, November 20th 2025, January 20th 2026 and February 20th 2026. If you need to make alternative arrangements please reach out to us.

In order to keep NFC administrative costs down we encourage families to pay via e-transfer sent to nfcdance@hotmail.com Please Use Password nfcdance and put the Dancer's Name in the memo.

We also accept payments by credit card through our Parent Portal, cash or cheques made payable to Newcastle Family Connection. Please note that credit card payments cost NFC additional fees and so if an alternative payment method is convenient for you it would be appreciated.

5.2 NSF & Late Fees

Cheques returned due to non-sufficient funds (NSF) are subject to a $50.00 service charge. The original payment must be replaced with cash to maintain your child’s enrollment in the program.

5.3 Refunds

A $10.00 fee will be charged on all tuition refund requests. All refund requests must be in writing via email. Refunds will be available up to 14 days after classes begin in September on a pro-rated basis. No refunds will be available after 14 days, you are responsible for the entire season. Any programs cancelled by NFC will be fully refunded. No refunds are given for late withdrawals.

5.4 Absences

If your child is absent for more than four (4) consecutive weeks (without a medical note), then they will be considered withdrawn from our program. Teachers work hard on choreographing a routine and lack of attendance can hinder this process. All fees are still due as per our Payments, Withdrawal and Refund Policy.

If your child is going to be away for any reason, you can report it through our Parent Portal under Absences.

6.0 Makeup Days

You will be notified by email if a class is cancelled (due weather conditions, instructor illness, etc.)

There will be no refunds for cancelled classes, however we have included a week designated for "make-up classes".

7.0 Minimum Class Size Requirement

Each class requires a minimum number of students to run. If the minimum enrollment is not met, the class may be cancelled, and all fees will be fully refunded.

If a class is cancelled by Newcastle Family Connection (NFC), families will be notified promptly and issued a full refund for that class.

8.0 Bathroom Breaks Policy

Due to the location of the washrooms at the Newcastle Arena, the following procedures are in place to ensure the safety and supervision of all students:

Movement to Music & Creative Dance Classes (Younger Students)

• If a student needs to use the washroom, the instructor will pause the class, and the entire class will accompany the student to the facilities.

• If a parent/guardian of the child is present, they will accompany the child instead of the instructor and class.

Grade 1 and Up

• A buddy system will be used. Two students will go together to the washroom while the class continues as normal.

Important Reminders

• Please encourage your child to use the bathroom before class begins to help minimize disruptions.

• If you have any concerns or special circumstances regarding bathroom breaks, please contact us directly to discuss accommodation.

Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining a smooth and safe class environment.

9.0 Drop off and Pick Up

We are located at Newcastle Memorial Arena - Upstairs at 103 Caroline St W in Newcastle, Ontario. The Arena is a busy facility that hosts a variety of events and community groups, making it accessible to many individuals. For the safety of all students, we ask that parents or guardians escort their child to the classroom door (North-West Stairwell up to the Studio) at drop-off and pick them up directly from the classroom door after class.

Please do not leave children unattended in the building before or after class. Your cooperation helps ensure a secure environment for everyone.

Families can access the building through the main double doors and by walking through to our staircase or by entering through the back door and up the stairs.

There is a waiting area for families as well as hooks for students to put their coats and bags. We ask that you please:

• Pick up your dancers on time. We are only responsible for your child while they are in class.

• Do NOT leave children unattended in the waiting area.

• Do NOT allow your children to horseplay in the building.

• Make sure that you and your children clean up after yourselves.

10.0 Volunteer Organization

Newcastle Family Connection (NFC) is a volunteer-run organization, and we rely on the time, energy, and dedication of our community to help us operate smoothly and successfully.

Running our programs requires a significant volunteer commitment, and we always welcome new volunteers to join us. Whether you can contribute time regularly or occasionally, your involvement is appreciated and valued.

If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions, please speak to a board member or contact us via email.

10.2 Board of Directors

New board members are voted in at our Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at the end of each dance season (June).

Our board consists of:

• Elected Director Positions

• Voting Members

• Non-voting Members

If you're interested in a more active leadership role, we encourage you to attend the AGM and consider becoming part of the team that shapes NFC’s future.

11.0 Dress Code

11.1 At Newcastle Family Connection (NFC), we recognize that personal style is a form of self-expression and individuality. However, it is equally important that attire reflects respect for oneself, others, and the values of our organization and community.

To help maintain a safe, inclusive, and professional environment, all students are expected to follow the guidelines below:

Dress Code Guidelines

• Students must dress neatly, respectfully, and in a manner appropriate for dance style.

• Inappropriate clothing or jewelry—including items that promote or depict drugs, alcohol, sex, racism, or violence—is strictly prohibited.

Maintaining a respectful and inclusive atmosphere begins with presentation. If you have any questions about whether an item is appropriate, please contact us.

11.2 Footwear Policy

Proper footwear is required for all classes to ensure safety and support during movement:

• Gymnastics, jazz or ballet shoes are required for all classes except Hip Hop and Acro. An example of these shoes can be found here: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07DXPWKC9/ref=twister_B07DXLQCSV?_encoding=UTF8&th=1&psc=1

• Hip Hop students must wear indoor black running shoes.

• Acro students must be bare foot.

• Socks alone are not permitted in any class due to safety concerns.

• During regular classes, indoor shoes of any color are acceptable.

• For the year-end recital, all students must wear black shoes appropriate to their class.

• All footwear must be indoor use only to help keep the dance area clean and safe.

Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and professional environment for all dancers.

12.0 Allergy Policy

Newcastle Family Connection Inc. has a strict no nuts/peanut policy. NO NUTS or PEANUTS are allowed in dance classes, at the studio or any venue NFC is operating in. This includes rehearsal and recital venues. If your child has any allergies, please indicate so on our registration form. Additional allergens may be identified through registration and thus additional restrictions may be applied and will be communicated to all dancers.

13.0 Dance Room Etiquette

13.1 Dance Room Etiquette

To help create a positive, respectful, and safe environment for everyone, we ask that both students and parents follow the guidelines below:

13.2 For Students

• Respect your instructor and fellow dancers by arriving on time, dressing appropriately, and being prepared for class.

• Use the restroom before class begins to avoid disruptions.

• Only indoors are allowed in the dance area.

• Follow the dress code at all times.

• Wait in the designated waiting area until your instructor invites you into the dance studio.

• No gum in the dance area—for safety reasons.

• Only water is allowed in the studio. It must be in a sealed bottle, placed along the window wall—away from the dance floor.

• Keep the curtains closed and respect studio boundaries.

• Red means stop: please stay away from the mirrors for your safety.

• Do not hang, push, or lean on the ballet barres.

• Do not leave the dance area without permission from your instructor.

• Listen carefully and stop dancing when the instructor is speaking.

• Be attentive, cooperative, and kind to your teacher and classmates.

• If another class is scheduled after yours, clear the room promptly to allow the next group to begin.

• Cell phones are not allowed in the dance area. Keep them off or on silent in the waiting area.

• Most importantly: Have fun and enjoy dancing!

For Parents

• Please pick up your child on time. NFC staff are only responsible for dancers while they are in class.

• Do not leave children unattended in the waiting area.

• No horseplay is permitted inside the building.

• Silence all cell phones or set them to vibrate while in the waiting area.

• If your child is sick or has a fever, please keep them home.

• Help us keep the space clean. Please ensure you and your child tidy up after yourselves.

Newcastle Family Connection is a safe space for all dancers to feel welcome. We have a zero tolerance for bullying.

14.0 Social Media Policy

At NFC, social media is a valuable tool for sharing our growth, celebrating achievements, and engaging with the community. Despite over 30 years of service, many local families still haven’t discovered us—your posts help raise awareness!

This policy provides clear guidelines to ensure that all social media activity related to NFC is respectful, positive, and aligned with our values.

We Encourage Positive Engagement

We welcome and appreciate families sharing their positive experiences with NFC on social media!

Feel free to post photos in spiritwear, rehearsal and recital highlights, or fun moments — and don’t forget to tag us:

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/nfc.dance

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/nfc.dance

We also share studio-approved photos and videos from classes, costume fittings, performances, and community events in a positive and professional manner to promote our dancers and programming.

Social Media Guidelines

To maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive online environment:

• DO share your dancer’s experience positively and respectfully.

• DO NOT post images or videos of other dancers without their or their parent’s explicit permission.

• DO NOT share any information that may compromise the privacy or safety of NFC families or staff.

• DO NOT post content that could harm the self-esteem or reputation of other dancers, instructors, or staff.

• DO NOT make negative or critical comments about studio events, instructors, or programming online.

Let’s work together to keep our community respectful, encouraging, and uplifting—both in the studio and online.

14.1 Media Use Rights and Permission

At the time of registration, all parents/guardians are required to review and agree to our Media Use Rights and Permission policy. This ensures clarity around how images and recordings may be used, while maintaining the privacy of personal information.

By registering, you acknowledge the following:

"I give my consent and agree that Newcastle Family Connection (NFC) and its authorized agents have the right to photograph, videotape, or digitally record my child(ren) or myself. These images may be used in any and all media—now and in the future—for educational, promotional, display, or other purposes approved by the NFC Board of Directors.

I release NFC and its agents from any rights, claims, or interests I may have in the control, use, or publication of these materials. I understand that names will not be disclosed in any public use of the material, and all efforts will be made to maintain individual privacy.

I understand that no financial or other compensation will be provided for the use of these recordings, whether for the initial use or future reproductions. Ownership of all media will remain property of NFC.

For privacy and safety reasons, photography and video recording by audience members or individuals other than NFC Dance is strictly prohibited during classes, rehearsals, recitals, and all NFC events."

Consent to this policy is automatically included upon registration.

If you do not agree to these terms, it is your responsibility to notify the Board of Directors in writing via email prior to the start of the season.

15.0 Liability Waiver

“In consideration of the enrollment of the above-named participant(s) in the dance program held at the Newcastle Memorial Arena and any associated recital venues offered by Newcastle Family Connection Inc. (NFC), I acknowledge and accept full responsibility for any injury that may occur to my child(ren) while participating in the program.

I further agree to waive any and all claims, and not pursue legal action against Newcastle Family Connection Inc., its board of directors, staff, or volunteers, in the event of personal injury to my child(ren), myself, or other family members arising from participation in the program.”