9/20/2017
This was written by an anonymous instructor and published in the World Line Dance Newsletter. It's included here at the suggestion of more than one of our Villages instructors.
Classes vary in size and formality. But these general guidelines will make the experience pleasant for everyone.
Classes vary in size and formality. But these general guidelines will make the experience pleasant for everyone.
1. Turn off cell phones.
If you're expecting an important call, wear your phone on vibrate and leave the classroom to answer, or mute it and check frequently for missed calls.
2. Don't interrupt the instructor. Raise your hand to ask your question during a pause.
3. If you know that an instructor is making a mistake, don't say "That's wrong!" or whisper to other students. Speak up, but phrase your comment in neutral terms, such as "I must be having a senior moment because the last time we did this, I thought we turned left." Most instructors I know would rather be corrected than teach a dance incorrectly, but be nice--think about how many mistakes YOU make that they let slide.
4. If you want a specific spot in the classroom, get there early and stake it out. Just because you've been going to a class for years does not put a "reserved" sign on the floor. If you arrive late, go to the BACK OR SIDES rather than squeeze in next to your friends "where you always stand." It isn't fair to the people who got there first.
5. Please do not wear strong scents to class. Guys, this applies to aftershave, too. Some people who are sensitive to odors can become headachy or sick, and may have to move or even leave the room.
6. Chatter quietly in between dances and teaches, but stay alert so you know when your instructor is ready to resume the class.
7. If you don't like a dance, either sit down or think of it as exercise and just do it. We can't like them all, but it's distracting to fellow students to hear complaints. It's also disrespectful to the instructor, who may overhear and take negative comments about a dance as personal criticism, even if that was not your intention.
Remember that your instructors put effort into preparing for classes, and that all the students are there to learn and socialize with friends or meet new ones. Be kind and respectful, and it will be contagious. Good luck!