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Competition Expectations

3 Strike Rule

LMDA Competition Team & Class Expectations · 2026–2027 Season

At LMDA, we believe dancers thrive when expectations are clear, consistent, and communicated openly. This policy is designed to promote respect, accountability, teamwork, and a positive learning environment for every dancer.

Important Information

  • Most behaviors will receive two warnings before a strike is issued.
  • Parents will be notified no later than Warning Two and before a strike is issued whenever possible.
  • Warnings and strikes are cumulative throughout the dance season.
  • Strikes are not tied to one specific behavior.
  • LMDA reserves the right to bypass steps for severe, unsafe, or highly disruptive behavior.

Warning Process

Warning 1

Verbal Reminder

Warning 2

Parent Notification

Strike

Continued Behavior

Warning One — Verbal Reminder

The instructor addresses the behavior and provides the dancer an opportunity to correct it. Parent communication is not typically required at this stage.

Warning Two — Formal Warning & Parent Notification

The behavior is documented, parents are notified, and the dancer is informed that any continued behavior will result in a strike.

Strike System & Consequences

1

Strike One — Parent Observation Required

Parents are notified and a parent or guardian must attend and observe the dancer's next class or rehearsal.

2

Strike Two — Parent Conference Required

Immediate parent notification and a required conference with studio leadership. The dancer may be removed from portions of class, rehearsal, choreography, performances, or team activities.

3

Strike Three — Review of Studio Placement

Immediate parent notification, required meeting with studio leadership, and review of continued participation. Dismissal from a class, team, program, or the studio may be considered.

Behaviors That May Lead to Warnings and/or Strikes

The behaviors listed below may result in classroom reminders, formal warnings, and/or strikes depending on the severity, frequency, and impact of the behavior. Most behaviors will follow the LMDA warning and strike process outlined above.

  • Attendance & Preparedness: Excessive tardiness, repeated dress code violations, leaving class without permission.
  • Classroom Behavior: Excessive talking, repeated interruptions, distracting others.
  • Respect & Attitude: Disrespectful language, arguing with instructors, defiant behavior.
  • Safety Concerns: Roughhousing, ignoring safety instructions, unsafe conduct.
  • Teamwork & Courtesy: Bullying, excluding others, disrupting rehearsals, creating unnecessary drama.

Immediate Parent Contact

  • Physical aggression
  • Bullying or harassment
  • Threats or intimidation
  • Intentional property damage
  • Theft
  • Profanity directed at others
  • Any behavior creating an unsafe environment

Parents and dancers should review this policy together. Questions? Email info@lmdanceacademy.com.