CONDUCT & POLICIES
Inclusivity: GTCYS prohibits discrimination regarding race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, migrant, immigrant, and refugee status, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, and mental or physical abilities. Each student’s gender identity will be respected, and the student’s preferred name and pronoun will be used. As we strive to create an equitable and inclusive program for all, we encourage every member of the immediate GTCYS community (students, parents/guardians, staff) to help by identifying and challenging individual or systemic acts of racism and other forms of discrimination if they arise.
Behavior Violations: Examples of minor behavior infractions that go against GTCYS expectations include, but are not limited to: failing to follow directions; speaking out of turn; being disrespectful to conductors, coaches, parent volunteers, staff, or peers; touching other students or their instruments without permission; or misusing GTCYS’ program venues by running or eating/drinking in areas where it is not permitted. Major behavior infractions may include, but are not limited to: physical or emotional conflicts, intentional damage to instruments, or vandalism of facilities.
Consequences: If a student does not follow the expectations outlined above, GTCYS staff will meet with the student and their parents/guardians to address the behavior. Before participating in their next orchestra activity, the student will be required to complete a behavior agreement that outlines specific steps for improvement. This process is designed to help students reflect on their actions and take responsibility for making positive changes. If the student violates the behavior agreement, a second conference will be held, and the student may be placed on probation or dismissed from the program.
Bullying and Harassment: GTCYS strictly prohibits bullying or harassment of any kind. GTCYS will investigate, respond to, remediate, and discipline any reported acts of bullying. Students who have been bullied or harassed, or individuals who have witnessed another member of the GTCYS community being bullied or harassed, should immediately inform the conductor. If the individual does not wish to communicate with the conductor for any reason, the individual should contact GTCYS’ Program Director or Executive Director.
Drugs: The distribution, possession and/or un-prescribed use of narcotics, alcohol, cigarettes, and other controlled substances by members is unlawful and strictly forbidden. Any violation will lead to disciplinary review, including probation or dismissal.
Other Policies: GTCYS students and families are expected to follow GTCYS’ other policies, including the Child Protection Policy and Gender Inclusion Policy
Probation and Dismissal: A musician may be put on probation or dismissed from GTCYS without a refund at the discretion of the conductor and/or Executive Director for reasons including, but not limited to: lack of musical preparedness, behavior/conduct concerns such as, but not limited to: violation of the terms of a behavior agreement, bullying, harassment, vandalism, theft, use of illegal substances, violence, the possession of a weapon, or any behavior that undermines the integrity of the organization.
Positive Ambassadorship: Every GTCYS participant represents the organization through their behavior at all GTCYS activities, including rehearsals, retreats, concerts, special events, and tours. Because GTCYS rents space for its programs, participants are expected to act as respectful guests, treating all facilities, staff, and property with care and consideration at all times.
Musical Preparation: Coming to rehearsals prepared is essential for all students’ success. This includes:
- Practice at home: Students are expected to learn their individual parts at home so that rehearsals can focus on putting the full ensemble together. As a general guideline, plan to spend at least 10 minutes each day practicing your GTCYS music—this is known as the “GTCYS 10.” Consistent home practice helps ensure productive rehearsals and musical growth.
- Bring music, a pencil, music stand, and all necessary instrument accessories (e.g. reeds, rock stops, mallets) to every GTCYS activity.
- Seek help on challenging music sections (for example from a private teacher, or band or orchestra director if you have one)
Cell Phones: Cell phones may not be used during GTCYS activities and must be put away when students arrive. Phones will be confiscated if students have them out during activities. Continued misuse may result in probation or dismissal without a refund.
Instrument Liability: Students are fully responsible for the care and safety of their own instruments and accessories during all GTCYS activities. GTCYS is not liable for any instruments or accessories that are lost, stolen, or damaged. If an instrument is damaged during a GTCYS activity, the student(s) involved must report the incident to their conductor right away. GTCYS staff will notify the student’s parents/guardians with the information available and provide contact details so families can work together to resolve the issue. When needed, a meeting may be scheduled with the conductor and GTCYS staff to determine appropriate restorative steps. GTCYS strongly recommends that all students have insurance for their instruments. Instruments should be kept in their cases when not in use, and students must be mindful of others to help prevent accidents.
Participation in School Band and Orchestra Programs: GTCYS values and supports the important role school music programs play in students’ development. Our programs are meant to enhance and build upon the musical experiences students receive at school, not replace them. While we cannot require participation, GTCYS strongly encourages all members to actively participate in school band and orchestra programs. If a school concert conflicts with a GTCYS event, students should prioritize their school performance and submit a GTCYS absence form as soon as the conflict is known.
Payment and Refunds: GTCYS families must pay all tuition and fees by the deadlines outlined in the enrollment form. Contact sara@gtcys.org with questions about payments.