Student & Parent handbook

Welcome to the Studio!

Thank you for joining our art program! Our studio is designed to help students grow creatively while building strong foundational skills through individualized instruction and hands-on exploration of multiple art media.

We believe every student is capable of artistic growth when given encouragement, structure, and the freedom to explore creativity at their own pace. We are excited to be part of your artistic journey and look forward to creating with your family this year.


Curriculum Overview

Our Level One curriculum guides students through an 8-part journey exploring a variety of artistic media. The progression is as follows:

  1. Pastels
  2. Colored Pencils
  3. Graphite
  4. Markers
  5. Printmaking
  6. Acrylic Painting
  7. Ink Drawing
  8. Watercolor


Students receive personalized instruction tailored to their individual pace and skill level. Throughout each media unit, students complete multiple projects designed to strengthen technique, creativity, and artistic confidence.

As students demonstrate mastery of each medium, they will earn the corresponding art badge and progress to the next stage of the curriculum.


Tuition Policy

Monthly tuition of $125 covers (on average) four classes per month. During months that include a fifth class week, one scheduled class may be canceled. Classes may also be canceled in observance of major holidays. Please refer to the studio calendar for specific class dates, holiday closures, and scheduled breaks.


New Student Registration Fee

A one-time $25 registration fee is required for all new students upon enrollment. This fee helps cover administrative and enrollment costs, an introductory information phone call, a studio art tote bag for supplies, and art badges that will be given to each student as they progress through the curriculum.

The registration fee is non-refundable.


Supplies

Students are responsible for purchasing their own supplies based on their current level within the curriculum.

Supply lists will be provided for each media stage and may be purchased from any retailer. For convenience, curated supply lists with Amazon links are available online.

Students should bring their personal supplies to every class in their studio tote bag.


Attendance & Makeup Classes

Regular attendance is encouraged so students can progress consistently through the curriculum.

If a student will be absent, please notify us via text or email as soon as possible.

Because class sizes are limited and instruction is individualized, makeup classes are not guaranteed. When space allows, students may request a scheduled makeup session within the same month of the missed class.

No refunds or tuition credits will be provided for missed classes.

In the event that the studio must cancel a class due to instructor illness, emergency, or severe weather, a makeup class or tuition credit will be provided.


Withdrawal Policy

Enrollment is offered on a month-to-month basis.

Students may withdraw from classes at any time; however, we kindly request a minimum of two weeks’ notice prior to withdrawal.

Please note that students who withdraw and later wish to return must complete the enrollment process again. Placement is subject to class availability, and students may be added to a waitlist if classes are full.


Classroom Expectations

Our studio is committed to maintaining a positive, respectful, and creative learning environment for all students.

Students are expected to:

  • Treat instructors, classmates, and studio materials with respect
  • Follow classroom instructions and safety guidelines
  • Participate positively and encourage fellow artists
  • Clean up their workspace at the end of class
  • Bring required supplies to class

Disruptive or unsafe behavior may result in a parent conference and, if necessary, dismissal from the program.


Arrival and Dismissal

Studio doors will open at the scheduled start time of each class. Classes are 90 minutes in length. Dismissal will take place in the final 5 minutes of class.

For student safety, please ensure your child is picked up promptly at dismissal time. Parents are responsible for supervising students before class begins and immediately after class ends.


Parent Communication

Communication regarding schedules, studio updates, closures, supply lists, and special events will be shared through email and/or text messaging via the Remind app. Families are asked to download the Remind app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. A class code will be provided by Mr. Spenser to join the appropriate studio communication group.

Parents are encouraged to reach out with any questions or concerns regarding their student’s progress or classroom experience.

Please help us maintain accurate contact information so important updates are received promptly.


Sick Policy

To help maintain a healthy classroom environment, students who are experiencing fever, vomiting, contagious illness, or other significant symptoms should remain home until they are symptom-free for at least 24 hours.

If a student becomes ill during class, a parent or guardian may be contacted for early pickup.

Thank you for helping us keep our studio community healthy and safe.


Weather Closure Policy

In the event of severe weather or unsafe travel conditions, the studio may cancel classes.

Families will be notified through email and/or text messaging as soon as possible regarding cancellations or schedule changes.

Whenever possible, make up classes or alternate arrangements will be provided for weather-related closures.


Photo & Social Media Permission

From time to time, photographs or videos may be taken during classes for studio newsletters, social media, website content, promotional materials, or displays of student work.

No student names will be publicly shared without permission.

Please indicate your preference below:

☐ I give permission for my child’s artwork and/or photo to be used for studio promotional purposes.

☐ I do not give permission for my child’s artwork and/or photo to be used.

Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________

Date: __________________


Emergency Contact Information

Student Name: ___________________________________

Parent/Guardian Name(s): ___________________________

Primary Phone Number: ____________________________

Secondary Phone Number: __________________________

Email Address: ___________________________________

Emergency Contact Name: __________________________

Emergency Contact Phone Number: __________________

Relationship to Student: ___________________________

Allergies or Medical Concerns: ______________________


Acknowledgement of Risk

I understand that participation in art classes may involve the use of art materials and tools including, but not limited to, paints, inks, scissors, printmaking materials, and other studio supplies.

I acknowledge that classes are conducted in a home studio environment and that students may enter designated areas of the property, including restroom access inside the home. I understand that the property may contain ordinary household conditions including steps, uneven surfaces, pets, driveways, walkways, and other potential tripping or environmental hazards.

I understand that while reasonable precautions are taken to maintain a safe environment, participation in studio activities and presence on the property carries some inherent risk.

By signing below, I voluntarily assume these risks and release and hold harmless the studio owner, instructors, and staff from liability for accidental injury, loss, or damage that may occur during participation in classes or while on the property, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________

Date: __________________


Parent & Student Agreement

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the policies and procedures outlined in this handbook.

I agree to follow the studio policies and understand that policies may be updated as needed throughout the year.

Student Name: ___________________________________

Parent/Guardian Name: ____________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________

Date: __________________

Student Signature (if applicable): ____________________

Date: _________________

My Approach


I believe that drawing and painting are skills that can be learned like anything else. It takes attention to detail, and persistence but anyone can do it. Most people give up prematurely. They never get the satisfaction of pushing through the ugliness in order to make something beautiful.


I'll guide you on starting, handling materials, highlighting details, and how to fix it when it just doesn't look quite right. My classes aim to instill perseverance and craftsmanship needed for creating exceptional art in all different art media.