Welcome to the California Academy of the Arts (CALIACA), where dance is more than movement. It is memory, music, and community—an invitation to step into the living traditions that shape Ballet Folklórico and so many cultural dances we hold with pride. When you join CALIACA, you become part of a shared story built on passion, history, and respect for the heritage carried in every step.

To keep our studio a space where artistry and personal growth can thrive, all students, families, and community members are expected to uphold a culture of dignity, care, and accountability.

CALIACA honors the strength of diversity. We ask every member of our community to welcome the many backgrounds, identities, and experiences that gather in our classes and rehearsals. This means speaking about culture with respect, listening with openness, and choosing curiosity over assumptions. Derogatory comments, stereotypes, or dismissive behavior have no place here.

Kindness and respect are central to the way we train and perform. We celebrate effort, encourage one another, and communicate with compassion. We do not gossip, insult, shame, or use harsh language that undermines someone’s confidence or belonging. If a concern arises, we address it thoughtfully and directly, with the goal of strengthening our community.

We approach dance traditions with reverence. Each rhythm, costume, and gesture carries meaning, shaped by the communities that created them and the generations that kept them alive. We ask dancers to learn with humility, to ask questions respectfully, and to value the cultural context that instructors share. Mocking, disrespecting, or using cultural elements without understanding or care is not acceptable.

Inclusivity is not optional at CALIACA; it is a commitment. Discrimination, slurs, or exclusion based on race, ethnicity, age, identity, or background will not be tolerated. We strive to create a studio where every dancer feels seen, welcomed, and supported, regardless of experience level.

Dance is also a collective practice. Growth happens when we learn together, listen closely, follow instruction, and stay focused during class and rehearsal. We encourage a spirit of cooperation and positive effort. Disruptive behavior, refusal to follow direction, or uncooperative conduct that interferes with learning is not allowed.

As we celebrate cultural heritage, we also care for it. We treat music, costumes, props, and traditions with respect, and we show appreciation for the communities and histories they represent. We do not mishandle cultural items, dismiss cultural learning, or participate in appropriation.

At CALIACA, we believe dance can build confidence, deepen cultural appreciation, and transform lives. When we choose respect, inclusivity, and responsibility, we create a studio where every dancer can thrive—and where the joy and power of our traditions can be shared with care, pride, and purpose.

The California Academy of the Arts is dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for all dancers. As part of our commitment to ensuring the well-being of our students, we have qualified staff members who may administer basic first aid when necessary. This includes the management of minor injuries or addressing immediate health concerns during their time at the academy or at academy events.

However, it is important to note that our staff members are not medical professionals. In the event of more serious or urgent medical issues where the student/dancer is unable to make his/her own medical decisions, our staff will make every effort to contact parents/guardians/emergency contacts or primary care physicians to seek additional guidance and ensure appropriate medical care is obtained. We understand the importance of involving parents/guardians and primary care physicians in such situations to ensure the best possible care for our students/dancers.

By participating in programs and activities at the California Academy of the Arts, dancers and/or their parents/guardians acknowledge and consent to our staff members providing basic first aid when deemed necessary, and understand that our staff members will seek appropriate medical guidance in the event of more serious or urgent medical issues.

At California Academy of the Arts (CALIACA), we celebrate the power of dance to tell stories, honor tradition, and build community. By giving consent, you allow CALIACA to capture and use photos, video, and other media that may include the student/dancer’s image or likeness during Academy activities such as classes, rehearsals, performances, and events.

You understand that CALIACA may use this media for educational, promotional, and publicity purposes. This may include print and digital materials such as flyers, brochures, newsletters, the CALIACA website, social media, and other advertising or marketing materials.

You grant CALIACA permission to use the student/dancer’s image, video, and likeness worldwide and for an unlimited period of time. You understand that no payment or compensation will be provided for this use.

CALIACA will take reasonable steps to handle the student/dancer’s personal information with care and will not share personal information with third parties without express consent.

You acknowledge that participation in any activity that may be photographed or recorded is voluntary, and that you are giving this consent freely.

You release and waive any claims against CALIACA, including its employees, agents, and representatives, that may arise from the use of the student/dancer’s image, video, or likeness. This includes, but is not limited to, claims related to privacy, defamation, or copyright.

You may withdraw your consent at any time by providing written notice to CALIACA. You understand that any materials created or published before the withdrawal may continue to be used.

By checking the box below, you confirm that you have read and understood this Media Consent and Release, and you agree to its terms.