Lesson policies
Clear expectations, both directions.
These are the policies for private lessons. They're short on purpose. The theme running through all of them is the same: communicate, and we'll figure it out.
Cancellation
The 24-hour notice applies to both of us. It's a mutual commitment, not just a rule for families.
- Illness happens. Kids wake up sick the morning of a lesson. All I ask is that you let me know as soon as you know — same-day notice for illness is completely fine.
- Communication is the policy. If you tell me, I'll do everything I can to reschedule.
- Make-up lessons are offered within two weeks when proper notice is given.
- If I miss a lesson and we can't reschedule it, I credit that lesson toward a future month's invoice.
- Standing exceptions: school-sponsored events, illness with same-day notice, and family emergencies.
Payment
- Payment for the full month is due at the first lesson of the month — not the 1st. Students shouldn't be expected to pay before their first lesson.
- Invoices generally go out on the 1st, but nothing is expected until that first lesson.
- Preferred methods: Zelle and Venmo (direct, no fees). PayPal, Apple Pay, Cash App, cash, or check available on request.
- Late payment: one-week grace period, then lessons pause until the balance is settled.
Because days off and reschedules are known in advance, you can see the whole semester's cost coming — no surprise months.
Attendance & expectations
- Arrive five minutes early with all materials: sticks, mallets, method books, and binder.
- Practice expectation: minimum 20 minutes a day, five days a week for 30-minute students; 40 minutes a day for 60-minute students.
- Parents are welcome to observe quietly.
- Progress reports go out to parents each quarter.
Questions about any of this?
Ask before you sign up rather than after. If something here doesn't work for your family's situation, tell me — most of it has more flexibility than it reads.