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THE ACADEMY’S EDUCATION FOCUS IS TO FOSTER, NURTURE AND ENCOURAGE SKILL BUILDING, SELF-DISCIPLINE, SELF-ESTEEM AND CREATIVITY IN EVERY STUDENT.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR CAMP, SUMMER AND FALL CLASSES.

Semesters:

We offer two 16 week semesters which are based on an academic, sequential development model. The first semester runs from September through January. The second semester resumes in February ending early June. Those enrolling in class mid-semester or at the second semester may experience temporary adjustments.

Divisions:

Classes offered within each division (except adult) are based on a 16 week semester.

Summer Arts:

Fun and Enrichment Programs are offered July and August.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Please read before registering for classes:

Registration is open throughout the year, including adult drop in classes. Registration is complete when SMAPA is in receipt of full payment unless on an installment plan. Class size, in the preschool and junior divisions, is limited and enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend early registration for the first and second semesters and that children participate in both. Class placement is based on the age, ability and developmental skill level of each student. To guarantee placement in the 2nd semester all currently enrolled students are encouraged to enroll prior to the December holiday break. For the preschooler we encourage parents to register for a single semester in order to determine their child’s level of interest.

Payment:

A $25 non-refundable registration fee is required for all new students. Returning students are required to pay a processing fee of $10. Payment is expected in full for each semester. We accept checks, cash, Visa, Master-Card and Discover. A 3 payment plan is an available option and will include an installment fee of $5 per installment. If paying by credit card, these installments may be automatically charged to your account with cardholder permission. Otherwise, an invoice will be sent on the first of each month with the remaining balance due by the 15th.

Discounts:

Students taking more than one class per week in the Preschool or Junior Divisions receive a $25 discount for one additional class. Siblings registering in the Preschool, Junior and Prep Divisions receive a $25 discount. Students taking more than one additional class, please refer to the fee schedule for multiple classes listed on our website or at our reception desk.

Refunds:

Full tuition will be refunded if notice of withdrawal is provided within the first (7 days) prior to the first class. In the preschool division exceptions are made in the first week of the session. A letter of credit is issued to students who withdraw from a class after the first week of the semester. Credit is based on the number of classes remaining in the semester and is applied to the following semester.

*Class Cards:

Available for purchase in the adult division only and are packaged as a 10 or 20 class card. They must be used within a 12 week period from date of first use. Single class purchases are unlimited after the $25 registration fee is paid. Cards are non-transferable and cannot be shared.

Punctuality and Sign In:

Students are expected to sign in at the desk prior to class. Classes begin and end on time; please be sure children arrive with ample time to prepare for class. Entrance may be denied if students arrive more than 10 minutes late.

Attire:

Appropriate attire is required for all classes; girls- leotards and tights, boys- sweat pants and t-shirts. Students are expected to have proper footwear for ballet, pointe, tap, hip hop and jazz classes and bare feet for all creative movement, pre-dance and modern classes.

Advancement:

Advancement is determined on an individual basis by our instructors if they believe it is in the best interest of the student. Children may repeat any level several times to insure a solid grasp of the skills and concepts prior to advancing. Some students may be advanced mid-session.

Transfers:

Students may transfer to any class (not already filled) within the first two weeks of class.

Make-up Classes:

Classes not held, due to a holiday or instructor’s absence, can be made up. In the event of student absence, classes may be made up in an appropriate level class within the semester in which the classes were missed.

Lost Property:

SMAPA Inc. is not responsible for any lost property left on the premises and has no liability if such property is stolen.

Dressing Rooms:

Provided for both boys & girls. For younger girls age 5 and under accompanied by their father, the boys dressing room may be used for changing. Please do not disrobe children in reception area, waiting room or hallways.

Food:

Food and beverages are not allowed in dressing rooms. The Carter Family room and kitchen/party room can be used for eating. Please clean after use.

Weather and Canceled Classes:

Canceled classes, due to weather or instructor illness, may be made up during the make-up week following each session. SMAPA will close for snow and inclement weather. Call our main number at 973-655-9819 after 7am for closing announcements.

Observation Week:

Toward the end of each semester we welcome parents/ caregivers into the classroom to observe the progress of their children. This is not considered a performance or recital.

Studios:

Studios are used for classes, students and instructors only. They are not to be used as play spaces for young children not taking classes.

Strollers:

Strollers are not permitted in hallway area (this is a fire safety rule). They may be parked in the Carter Family Waiting room or the elevator “red room”.

Carter Family Waiting Room:

There is a space provided for young children where puzzles, books and videos can be used; please put back after use.

Monitoring Children:

We request young children be monitored at all times. Running is not permitted in corridor for the safety of all.

Trash:

Please clean up after yourself and/or your children and discard diapers in an outside receptacle. Thank you for your cooperation in helping us keep SMAPA clean and safe!

Grants and Foundations:

SMAPA is grateful for the generous support of the following foundations: The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, Hyde & Watson Foundation, JP Morgan Chase, The Victoria Foundation, Mertz-Gilmore Foundation, Pfizer Corporation, PNC Bank, Turrell Fund, The Helen and William Mazer Foundation, New Jersey Cultural Trust, Rose & John Cali Family Foundation, Angelo & Mary Cali Foundation, The Stone Foundation.