NDCA Code of Ethics
All registrants and member organizations of the NDCA have agreed to abide
by a code of ethics which guides dance teachers to remain true to the best
interests of their students (clients) to the best of education and
experience necessary to enhance the student's instruction; to behave in a
positive and constructive manner at all times; and to utilize truth,
fairness and integrity in the development of professional decisions and
relationships.
Ethical Practical Guidelines for NDCA Recognized Dance Teachers
These guidelines have been prepared by the Ethics Committee of the NDCA
and follow industry standards for teachers of dance and closely related
professions. They are intended to provide all dance teachers guidance in
the daily business relationships of teacher/student in all settings from
dance studio to one-on-one instruction. They should be posted in a
prominent place and distributed to all students.
I. The Best Interests of The Student Come First
A. A dance teacher's responsibility is to provide a safe and healthy
environment by ensuring that facilities conform to minimum safety and
space requirements with suitable, safe flooring, sufficient lighting and
appropriate sound system.
B. A dance teacher should clearly define the goals to be achieved and the
approximate time period including the number of lessons suggested in order
to meet the student's needs and expectations - not the teacher's financial
requirements.
C. A dance teacher will not recommend various dance-related products or
services (i.e.: dance tapes, shoes, etc.) unless it will benefit the
student and/or enhance the educational experience. In the event the Dance
teacher will gain financially upon purchase of these items, it may be
prudent to disclose this to the student.
D. A dance teacher should understand the role of dance in the development
of the whole person.
II. Maintain A Professional Relationship
A. A dance teacher respects a student's right to privacy and should focus
on the business relationship - not the student's person life. In most
cases, conversations, behavior, and results should remain confidential. If
requested by the student, identity may be kept confidential as well.
B. Physical contact should be professional and appropriate at all times
during instruction.
C. A dance teacher should never sexually, economically or otherwise
exploit his or her professional relationship with a supervisor, employee,
colleague, client or student. Furthermore, sexually oriented jesting and
inappropriate physical contact should be avoided at all times.
D. If the dance teacher is unable to maintain a professional relationship
no matter why, then it is incumbent upon the dance teacher to either
terminate the relationship or refer the student to an appropriate
professional.
III. Education and Experience Are Paramount
A. A dance teacher should possess the experience, knowledge, and
qualifications as required to instruct at each dance level.
B. A dance teacher should be aware of limitations in and ensure that
they're capable of providing services claimed.
C. A dance teacher should keep abreast of new developments and practices
in the dance industry in order to provide the highest quality dance
instruction and education.
IV. Guide Professional Decisions and Relationships in a Truthful and
Fair Manner
A. In all professional and business relations the dance teacher should
exhibit honesty, integrity and trustworthiness and show respect for
clients and colleagues. A dance teacher shall not discredit, malign or in
any way cast reflection on the professional standing of another
school/studio or teacher.
B. A dance teacher should accurately portray his or her qualifications to
the public especially in advertising material and avoid any ambiguity or
exaggeration. All information should be presented completely to help
students make informed decisions. A dance teacher should refrain from
making false claims about his or her accomplishments or affiliations.
C. Contracts, pricing and policies should be clear, concise, easy to
understand and administered consistently.
D. A dance teacher should never solicit business from another teacher or
studio.
E. A dance teacher should never discriminate based on race, creed, color,
gender, sexual orientation, age, physical handicap or nationality.
F. In the event a disagreement or conflict occurs, a dance teacher should
rely on the facts, actual behavior and positive communication, avoiding
judgmental statements, gossip, directing blame or other negative
responses.
V. Maintain a Professional Image and Conduct
A. A dance teacher should maintain a professional appearance by avoiding
all forms of substance abuse, smoking in inappropriate circumstances and
by using proper hygiene.
B. A dance teacher should use appropriate speech and attire suitable for
the teaching of dance.
C. A dance teacher should strive to foster a love of dance, to develop
self-discipline and self-motivation among students, and to encourage and
support the individual in class and performance.
D. A dance teacher should demonstrate professional attitudes to include
punctuality, reliability and responsible care of students.
VI. Maintain Appropriate Business Practices
A. A dance teacher shall fulfill all legal requirements such as, but not
limited to, becoming bonded and insured; registering business name,
adhering to staff ad business contracts and payment of applicable taxes.
B. A dance teacher employed by a dance school, studio (business) shall not
resign without reasonable and customary notice to his employer.
C. A dance teacher should ensure that fee structures are made available in
writing upon request.
D. A dance teacher shall refund unused monies to students according to
published policies.
E. A dance teacher should distribute scholarships won or earned by their
students according to published policies of the studio and/or the National
Dance Council of America.
VII. Overseas Visiting Coaches
A. A dance teacher or Studio inviting overseas visiting coaches should
provide these coaches with the NDCA Code of Ethics and the Ethical
Practical Guidelines for NDCA recognized dance teachers.
B. Overseas visiting coaches should comply with the NDCA Code of Ethics
and adhere to the ethical practical guidelines where appropriate.
