The Teacher Assistant role at CVPA is integral to the success of our classroom community. Students are identified and selected by CVPA faculty to both assist and demonstrate at various levels. These individuals must participate in training sessions as well as complete the Teacher Assistant Code of Conduct (available below), both of which serve to establish roles, responsiblities, and expectations. In some cases, Teacher Assistants will be asked to substitute classes in place of the regular teacher. Teacher Assistants are also involved in special events, including working backstage at our annual recital. This valuable leadership program has a strong history at CVPA and can lead to faculty positions at the studio. 

Teacher Assistant Code of Conduct

I. With regard to accepting responsibilities, a CVPA Teacher Assistant is advised to:

1. Practice professional communication. Communicate progress or concerns about students to parents only if directed to do so by the teacher(s) or CVPA Management.

2. Report concerns expressed by parents, students, or others to teacher(s) or supervisor.

3. Recognize that the supervisor has the ultimate responsibility for the instruction and behavior of students and follow the directions given by him/her.

4. Be prepared for your duties.

5. Be on time.

II. With regard to relationships with students and and parents, the CVPA Teacher Assistant is advised to:

1. Discuss a student’s progress, limitations, and/or educational program only with the supervising teacher in the appropriate setting. If contacted directly by a parent, the Teacher Assistant should refer the parent to the teacher or CVPA management.

2. Discuss problems and/or confidential matters only with appropriate personnel, and only when students are not present. Refrain from engaging in discriminatory practices based on a student’s handicap, race, sex, cultural background or religion.

3. Respect diversity.

4. Respect the dignity, privacy, and individuality of all students, parents, and staff members. Treat students with respect.

5. Be a positive, young-adult role model.

   1. Using profanity, alcohol, drugs, or engaging in sexual behavior while representing CVPA is strictly prohibited. This includes postings on all social media sites (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.).

6. Be aware of boundaries. Be fair, equitable, and refrain from favoritism.

III. With regard to relationships to teachers, the CVPA Teacher Assistant is advised to:

1. Recognize the role of the teacher as supervisor.

2. Express differences of opinion only when students are not present. Handle disagreements with the teacher in a respectful, ethical way.

3. Establish communication and a positive relationship with the teacher.

4. Discuss concerns about the teacher or teaching methods directly with the teacher.

5. Discuss concerns with CVPA Management if issues are not resolved.

6. Avoid discussing teacher problems with students, other teachers, Teacher Assistants or parents.

IV. With regard to the relationship with CVPA, the CVPA Teacher Assistant is advised to:

1. Accept a personal responsibility for continued skill improvement.

2. Become familiar with CVPA policies and procedures.

3. Represent CVPA and its programs in a positive manner not only at studio events but also in the community and beyond.

4. Utilize proper grievance procedures when problems cannot be resolved.

5. Be aware of your social media “presence” (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.).

6. Avoid:

1. Discussing studio problems and confidential matters, including personalities and skill levels.

2. Discussing administrative and inter-studio problems in the presence of students.

3. Discussing problems with those who cannot assist in the solution.

Please download, sign, and return the Teacher Assistant Code of Conduct to Gia or Janet before assisting your first class.