Policies for Current Students

Read below for all information regarding the Community Music School

Community Music School

Click below to access the ETSU Community Music School Policies:

  • Tuition Payment Information

    Families can pay for classes either by credit card or check. Paying by debit or credit card using our online system is highly encouraged. A link to the ETSU Payment System will be included at the bottom of each semester's invoice for your convenience.

    Payment by credit or debit card is easily made using our online ETSU Payment System. Click here to enter the secure payment site. Then select "Class Registration Fees" on the far right. You will be prompted to enter the total amount you would like to pay (leaving Quantity at 1). Click Add to Cart, and then follow the remaining prompts to complete your payment. If you have any trouble making your payment, feel free to email our Executive Aide for assistance at musicschool@mail.etsu.edu

    Click Here For Online Payment
     

    While we prefer online payment, if you must pay by check, please send an email to musicschool@mail.etsu.edu to notify our Executive Aide that a check payment has been made/sent.

    Checks can be written out to ETSU Community Music School, and then sent or brought in to the office. Bring payments to Mathes Hall located at 216 Sherrod Drive in Johnson City or mail them to:

    ETSU Music Department, Community Music School
    PO Box 70661
    Johnson City, TN 37614

    CMS Payment & Withdrawal Policy:

    RETURNING Students: By submitting a registration form, a student is considered registered in our system for the semester. A returning student must also pay the required deposit by the deadline. Deposits are a portion of the overall tuition balance. Deposits do not guarantee a particular time slot or instructor, but do give returning students priority placement over new students for available openings with instructors. If a returning student does not pay the deposit, a new student could potentially be accepted in their place if openings are limited. The remaining tuition balance for the semester is required in full by the due date prior to the start of classes for the semester, unless awaiting financial aid decisions or on an approved payment arrangement. Students are subject to dismissal from the program for non-payment. The student's account must be in good standing in order to remain in the program and to re-enroll for future semesters. Upon submission of a registration form, unless a student cannot be paired with an instructor or a class is cancelled, students are considered to be enrolled in the CMS program and must officially withdraw to avoid semester fees or to receive a full or partial refund. Withdrawals must be made in writing by emailing musicschool@etsu.edu or submitting a withdrawal request using the form on the CMS website.

    NEW Students: Potential new students must submit an application form and NON-refundable $25 application fee to be considered for the CMS program. If an instructor is available and paired with the student, the student is notified and is considered registered in our system for the semester. The remaining one-time new student fee of $25 and the tuition for the semester is required in full by the due date prior to the start of classes for the semester, unless awaiting financial aid decisions or on an approved payment arrangement. Students are subject to dismissal from the program for non-payment. The student's account must be in good standing in order to remain in the program and to re-enroll for future semesters. Unless officially notified that a student cannot be paired with an instructor or a class is cancelled, students are considered to be enrolled in the CMS program and must officially withdraw to avoid semester fees or to receive a full or partial refund. Withdrawals must be made in writing by emailing musicschool@etsu.edu or submitting a withdrawal request using the form on the CMS website.

    While CMS is a full year program, students must enroll and pay tuition each semester. An invoice for each student will be sent out by email in advance of each semester due date. Payments are due before classes commence. In certain cases a payment plan may be available. This will need to be requested before the payment due date in writing and approved by the CMS administration. Please send an email request for a payment arrangement to musicschool@mail.etsu.edu.

    To officially withdraw from any class, orchestra or lesson that the student has registered or applied for, complete the CMS Withdrawal Form:

    CMS Withdrawal Form



     

  • Calendar and School Closures

    Semester schedules typically follow the ETSU Academic Calendar, however some extensions to lesson terms can be made with prior arrangement through the teacher and pre-payment to the administrator. 

    ETSU Academic Calendar

    During severely inclement weather the administration may decide to cancel classes and lessons. Notification will be posted via email.

  • Attendance and Absences Policies

    CMS Student Attendance & Participation Expectations

    At the Community Music School, we believe that consistent attendance is crucial for the success and progress of our students. When students enroll in CMS, they are making a commitment to regular class/ensemble attendance and consistent lesson participation. If any student anticipates numerous absences in a given semester, he or she should feel free to speak to the administration about the situation.

    Students are permitted a total of 4 absences for 12 lesson packages and 2 absences for 6 lesson packages without being subject to reevaluation. Any absences beyond the permitted limit will have consequences, impacting the student's:

    • Grade
    • Placement in the program
    • Eligibility for financial aid and scholarships
    • Entrance or participation in concerts and competitions

    CMS is a rigorous program with high standards and expectations of our students. Students should be ready to commit to regular practice on their chosen instrument. Students will receive a quality musical education and are expected to attend all lessons, practice regularly, and put forth their best efforts to improve their musical skills. Students who are not committed to meeting these expectations are subject to dismissal from the program without a refund.

    Notification of Absence and Make-Up Policy:

    The Community Music School does not provide make-up sessions for students who miss classes or lessons. In the event that an instructor cancels a class or lesson, a make-up session will be scheduled to ensure students receive the full instructional benefit. If there is a major emergency please adhere to the 24 hour notice policy. We understand emergencies arise - if any issue comes up please contact your instructor or CMS administration. 

    It is the responsibility of the student or their parent/guardian to promptly notify their teacher of any anticipated absence. An absentee list is maintained weekly to track student attendance. Any absences must be notified 24 hours prior to the lesson time. Instructors may choose to reschedule a lesson if it is canceled before the 24-hour window, but it is at the discretion of the instructor, and not mandatory. In the event of a lesson cancellation within two hours of the scheduled lesson time, no makeup lesson will be provided unless it is due to a significant emergency.

    Please note that instructors are not required to make up missed lessons - the 24 hour notice gives instructors ample time to rearrange their schedule or accomodations for their day. It is up to the individual instructor if they will offer make-up lessons if 24 hour notice is given.

    If an instructor must cancel, the lesson will be rescheduled.

    CMS follows the ETSU Academic Calendar, and lessons will not take place on days when the institution is closed. Please refer to the tab above for the academic calendar. If the student is enrolled in a school with different breaks, inform your instructor during the first week of the semester.

     

  • Add/Drop & Refund Policy

    If a student wishes to add an additional course or withdraw from an individual course, the CMS administration must be notified in writing.

    To officially withdraw from any class, orchestra or lesson that the student has registered or applied for, complete the CMS Withdrawal Form:

    CMS Withdrawal Form

    Please send requests for an additional course by email to musicschool@mail.etsu.edu.

    No changes are confirmed until you receive confirmation from the CMS administration that your schedule has been updated. Students cannot request a new instructor after the first week of the semester.

    No schedule changes are permitted, without valid reason, after the first full week of the semester. 

    CMS Payment & Withdrawal Policy:

    RETURNING Students: By submitting a registration form, a student is considered registered in our system for the semester. A returning student must also pay the required deposit by the deadline. Deposits are a portion of the overall tuition balance. Deposits do not guarantee a particular time slot or instructor, but do give returning students priority placement over new students for available openings with instructors. If a returning student does not pay the deposit, a new student could potentially be accepted in their place if openings are limited. The remaining tuition balance for the semester is required in full prior to the start of classes for the semester, unless awaiting financial aid decisions or on an approved payment arrangement. Students are subject to dismissal from the program for non-payment. The student's account must be in good standing in order to remain in the program and to re-enroll for future semesters. Upon submission of a registration form, unless a student cannot be paired with an instructor or a class is cancelled, students are considered to be enrolled in the CMS program and must officially withdraw to avoid semester fees or to receive a full or partial refund. Withdrawals must be made in writing by emailing musicschool@etsu.edu or submitting a withdrawal request using the form on the CMS website.

    NEW Students: Potential new students must submit an application form and NON-refundable $25 application fee to be considered for the CMS program. If an instructor is available and paired with the student, the student is notified and is considered registered in our system for the semester. The remaining one-time new student fee of $25 and the tuition for the semester is required in full prior to the start of classes for the semester, unless awaiting financial aid decisions or on an approved payment arrangement. Students are subject to dismissal from the program for non-payment. The student's account must be in good standing in order to remain in the program and to re-enroll for future semesters. Unless officially notified that a student cannot be paired with an instructor or a class is cancelled, students are considered to be enrolled in the CMS program and must officially withdraw to avoid semester fees or to receive a full or partial refund. Withdrawals must be made in writing by emailing musicschool@etsu.edu or submitting a withdrawal request using the form on the CMS website.

    Refunds for withdrawals are calculated from the date the notice is received or from the last day of classes, whichever is latest. No refunds will be given after the seventh week of classes. If a student or parent submits a notice in writing before the second class meeting, they will receive a 50% tuition refund less the non-refundable application fees, or can choose to apply the remaining credit to a future semester or another family member.

  • Update Email, Address, and Phone

    Official communication between the Community Music School and students/parents/guardians is through email. All email communication will be sent through the primary email account listed on the registration form. You are responsible for updating student’s records as necessary regarding communication.

    The Community Music School has the right to expect such communication will be received and read in a timely fashion. Students and parents/guardians are expected to read, understand, and appropriately respond to official administrative emails.

    Please email musicschool@mail.etsu.edufor any updates regarding your contact information.

  • Parking

    Free parking is available at ETSU on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as after 4:30 pm on weekdays. A permit is not needed for faculty and student-designated parking spaces during these times. While students can be dropped off in front of Mathes Hall, please note that it is a no-parking lane. Students or parents/guardians will be ticketed at their own expense.

    During regular ETSU school hours, Monday through Friday, a parking pass can be obtained at the Parking office or here: 

    Click Here For Weekday Visitor Parking

  • Performances and Concerts

    Community Music School students enrolled in the core program will have performing opportunities throughout each semester. In order to perform, the student’s teacher must approve a performance request form and submit to the office. Students are not required to perform at all performances, but are encouraged. Students are encouraged to attend any performances where CMS is invited and can do so free of any charges.

    For all performances in which a student is participating there are specific concert dress expected. Unless a special concert dress or costume is specified, concert dress is either all black or black slacks or skirt with white top. Shoes and trouser stockings or nylons should be black. Bow ties or ties must be all black. Skirts and dresses must fall below the knee when seated. No sneakers, jeans, shorts, sweat pants or t-shirts are acceptable, nor is clothing which advertises a specific brand with logo.



    Student recitals and Studio recitals provide an opportunity for students to perform individually or with other members of their teacher’s studio. All recitals will need a faculty recital request form to be submitted to the CMS office. Recital submissions are subject to the main ETSU office calendar.

    The Fall 2023 CMS recitals will be held on December 15th at 12pm, 2pm, and 5pm. You will coordinate with your instructor to schedule the appropriate recital time. Students may not exceed 6 minutes of music, unless approved by CMS administration. 

 

Community Music School Expectations

  • Student Safety, Behavioral Expectations, and Parent/Guardian Responsibility  

    Students and their parents or guardians are welcome in the building all day Saturday. Although there are CMS staff and faculty members on site before and after the program classes, students will not be directly supervised by CMS employees outside the assigned student’s CMS times. The supervision of students under the age of 18 outside the assigned student times remains the responsibility of the parent. Parents/Guardians may not sit in on lessons, classes, or coaching sessions without prior arrangement with the instructor.

    Students are required to adhere to practice guidelines set by educators, ensuring active participation and preparation for each lesson. This commitment fosters a collaborative and enriching learning environment, promoting both personal and academic growth.

    ETSU Community Music School is committed to a respectful educational environment for all students. This includes a respectful environment between students, between students and teachers, as well as with the school property and private property. Harassment, intimidation, bullying, and other disruptive or violent behaviors are considered disruptive. Students who choose to engage in conduct prohibited by this policy or any other types of general disorderliness, malicious mischief, and/or behavior which is deemed detrimental to the Community Music School or interferes with the rights of other students in the building – are subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension and dismissal from CMS without fee reimbursement. All policies on behavior expectations, which are not tolerated, are outlined on the CMS website.

  • Health
    In medical emergencies, a member of the CMS staff will contact parent or guardian emergency information as soon as possible. No medications can or will be dispensed by any member of the CMS staff or faculty. Students who have an illness or special condition should alert the office.
  • Emergency and Safety Procedures
    The ETSU Community Music Program follows the steps in place by ETSU for emergency and safety procedures. Please click here for the ETSU campus procedures and important phone numbers.
  • Non-Discrimination Statement
    The ETSU Community Music School admits students of any race, color, or national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at ETSU. It does not discriminate on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race, color, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, and other school-administered programs.
  • Sexual and other unlawful harassment and discrimination

    The ETSU Community Music Program is committed to providing a safe and educational environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. Our students, faculty, independent contractors, staff, and volunteers have a right to an environment, which is free from unlawful harassment and discrimination. Therefore, CMS strictly prohibits sexual and other unlawful harassment and discrimination of any kind. Conduct that constitutes any of these types of behavior is unacceptable during any CMS programming including classroom, tutoring, lessons, performance space, practice rooms, and other areas on campus. All CMS travel related and off-site performances, meetings, and social events are also included in this policy.

    All definitions of sexual and other unlawful harassment and discrimination are defined as follows:

    • Verbal, visual and /or physical conduct that denigrates or shows hostility or aversion toward an individual. All characteristics that are protected by Federal, State or local laws will be upheld. Applicable statutes include Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and Title II of the American with Disabilities Act of 1990.
    • Sexual harassment constitutes a form of unlawful harassment under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and the Tennessee laws that follow. For the purpose of this policy sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual or gender related nature. Sexual harassment may include a range of subtle and not so subtle behaviors and may involve individuals of the same or different gender.
    • Unlawful discrimination includes all forms or educational or employment decisions that are adverse to an individual based on race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, age, marital status, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, medical condition, and /or any other condition or status that is protected by federal, state or local laws.
  • Other Unlawful Behavior

    The ETSU Community Music School requires the observance of all Tennessee State and Federal laws and regulations pertaining to crime, smoking, alcohol, and illegal drugs. CMS maintains an environment free of crime, tobacco use, illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia, as well as underage alcohol consumption.

    • ETSU is a smoke free campus. Smoking is prohibited on school-owned buildings and grounds. Tobacco use is prohibited and includes cigarettes, electronic cigarette, any device intended to simulate smokeless tobacco, snuff, chewing tobacco, smokeless pouches, loose-leaf tobacco and the use of unlit cigarettes, cigars, and pipe tobacco.
    • No persons under 21 may possess, consumer, manufacture, or distribute alcoholic beverages. No one may distribute alcohol to anyone under 21.
    • Students who are suspected of being intoxicated and/or under the influence of drugs and/or danger to themselves of the community may be placed in protective custody.
    • Possession, distribution or use of illegal drugs within school property is prohibited.
    • All criminal activities will be reported and otherwise dealt with to the full extent of the law.
    • All incidents will be reported to the proper authorities.
  • Reporting Violations

    The ETSU Community Music School strongly urges the reporting of all incidents of criminal actions, discrimination, harassment, or other unlawful behavior regardless of the offender’s identity or position. Individuals who believe they have experienced conduct or have concerns about such matters should file their complaints in writing wherever possible. Individuals should not feel obligated to file their complaints with the immediate CMS office or Directors. Complaints can be filed with any CMS staff or faculty.

    The complaint should be specific and should include the names of the individuals involved and the names of any witnesses. Early reporting and intervention have proven to be the most effective methods of resolving actual or perceived incidents. Therefore, while no fixed reporting period has been established, the CMS program strongly urges the prompt reporting of complaints or concerns so that rapid and constructive action can be taken.

 

Building, Logistics, and Media Policies

  • Care of the Facility

    ETSU Community Music School expects all students, parents, staff and faculty to treat all ETSU property with respect and care. All those associated with the program are expected to leave the property in the condition they entered or in better condition.

    ETSU is a recognized All Steinway School. All members of the community use these fine instruments and it is important to have a set of guidelines to maintain their quality. Please:

    • Do not move the piano or remove lids without assistance
    • Do not let any objects, including stands and chairs, touch the piano
    • Do not eat or drink near the piano.
    • Do not touch the dampers.
    • Be sure to leave the piano in the condition in which it was found.
  • Media Consent and Public Release Policy for Students

    Social media refers to an ever-expanding variety of online tools and mediums for communication. The rapid development and expansion of personal blogs and communication websites has changed the way the public share information. The ETSU Community Music School makes use of social media for defined business purposes, and the program’s director oversees all social media communications on behalf of the program.

    CMS is fully committed to ensuring the academic freedom of students, parents, and faculty; and the program has no desire to impede or interfere with the personal use of social media by members of the program. However, the distinction between personal use of social media and the CMS program business interests can become blurred when students, parents, faculty, staff and other members of CMS engage in behavior such as but not limited to the following:

    • Using the ETSU Community Music School logo, seal, and branding materials for purposes not authorized by the program.
    • Intentionally or unintentionally representing oneself as a spokesperson on behalf of the program.

    Students, parents, staff, faculty and others in the program are encouraged to adhere to the following guidelines when using social media:

    1. Do not use social media and blog sites to harass, bully, discriminate or any other unlawful activities towards any person involved with the Community Music School.
    2. Do not post, publish or share statements, photographs, videos, or audio recordings of another member of the program that could be viewed in any way as malicious or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
  • Recording Policies

    Personal video and audio recording of ETSU Community Music School events are allowed for personal use (non-commercial) only. Limit all recordings to your personal performance only. Students may only post video and audio recordings of their personal performances online and on social media websites.

    Video recording and/or photographic equipment limited to one device during the performance. Flash photography is prohibited. The ETSU Community Music School reserves the right to deny videography or photography of any event if it infringes on any copyright, licensing and performance release considerations.

  • Practice Room Information
    Practice rooms are available on Saturday and Sundays for CMS participants. Students will be able to check out practice room times during those days. Students are expected to use these rooms for practice use only and can check these out for an hour at a time. All care of the facility policies extend to practice room use. Please be aware, practice rooms are available to CMS students only on Saturday and Sundays, unless discussed with administration prior.
  • Emergency Phones
    The ETSU music office is open during CMS hours. The music department phone number is 423-439-4270. Students will be able to make outgoing calls for emergency purposes during the CMS hours. Emergency phones are also located around campus for 911 phone calls.
  • Lost and Found
    Please report all thefts and lost items to the office. Students are strongly encouraged to not leave instruments, music, valuables, and personal items unguarded anywhere in the building. ETSU is not responsible for personal belongings including instruments. All individuals are advised to carry their own insurance on instruments and other valuables.