Sam Rayburn High School

TexAnns Dance Teamand

JV Starlettes Dance TeamContract, Guidelines and Policies

Director - LaNeese GareriAssistant Director – Tracey Klingler

An extension of the Pasadena ISD Dance Constitution, all the information you need to

know about TexAnns Dance Team and JV Starlettes Dance Team!!!

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Dear TexAnns and JV Starlettes,Welcome to the Sam Rayburn High School TexAnns Dance Team / JV Starlettes

Dance Team! We are so glad you are joining our family; we have a very busy and exciting year ahead of us. In this organization, you will be surrounded by dedicated, hardworking and supportive people who are here for you whenever you may need them. The ball is now in your court and it is totally up to you how your upcoming year will go!

Please read over this packet carefully, whether for the very first time as a new member, or for the second or third time as a veteran member! You must know all these rules and abide by them at all times. This will ensure our team to have discipline, be well organized, and continue to be a successful and growing program. Learning these standards now will only help you in the future, both in and out of dance. The Directors, officers, and veteran team members are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have at any time. Do not assume, always come to us with your questions or concerns to be sure of any decision you need clarification on.

Again, we are very excited to have you as a member of our program and we look forward to working with you this year! We are here for any questions you may have, and the best way to contact the Director/s is by e-mail:

Director, LaNeese Garerilgareri@pasadenaisd.orgAssistant Director, Tracey Klinglertklingler@pasadenaisd.org

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Purpose of the TexAnns Dance Team and JV Starlettes

The purpose of the TexAnns and JV Starlette Dance Teams is to provide quality performance, encourage high academic and ethical standards, loyal school spirit and personal value among its members. Through the development of good sportsmanship, self-discipline, cooperation, leadership, respect for self and others, and the progression of dance technique, the TexAnns and JV Starlette Dance Teams will fulfill its purpose for the benefit of Sam Rayburn High School and Pasadena Independent School District.

TexAnns OrganizationThe name of the organization shall be:

TexAnns Dance Team

The colors of the TexAnns Dance Team shall be:

Navy Blue, Columbia Blue, and White

The team motto will be:

“Together, we can make miracles happen…”

JV Starlettes OrganizationThe name of the organization shall be:

JV Starlettes Dance Team

The colors of the JV Starlettes Dance Team shall be:

Navy Blue, Columbia Blue, and White

The team motto will be:

“Together, we can make miracles happen…”

SRHS Alma MaterWe honor Rayburn High School

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Our Alma Mater trueWe pledge our full allegiance

To the White and Columbia BlueOur colors stand for courage

For purity and rightTo us they will a challenge beTo strive with all our might

Through coming years, we will rememberVictories and friends, proven and true

Through all our joys, through all our sorrows,We will be true to you

We’ll always be proud TexansAnd praise you to the sky

With LOVE, RESPECT, and LOYALTYWe cheer SAM RAYBURN HIGH!

Texan Fight SongTexans, Texans, fight for your fame

Touchdown, Touchdown, Make it your aimLet us fight on to reach our goal

Let us retain our fame of oldSo ever forward, forward, we’re backing you

Texans, Texans, Loyal and TrueWe’ll spread your fame throughout the world

AS WE GOFighting to victory!T – E – X – A – N – S

Go Texans! Go Texans! Go Texans GO!

TexAnn Team ChantTexAnns are here to dance and cheer,We twist and turn throughout the year!

Smiles so bright we light the night,TexAnns are here to STAY, STAY, STAY!

We do our best to prove the rest,We never settle for second best!Kicks up high! Splits down low!

TexAnns, TexAnns, the way to GO!!!KICK IT UP TEX-ANNS!

Who’s Who?Director Assistant Director

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LaNeese Gareri Tracey Klinglerlgareri@pasadenaisd.org tklingler@pasadenaisd.org

The TexAnn Director/s are responsible for all decisions affecting the team under guidelines of Sam Rayburn High School, Pasadena ISD, and with the Director’s discretion among certain situations, her word is the final decision.

TexAnn OfficersIt is the duty of all officers to be ambitious, determined and to maintain pride in self and in

the organization. An officer must learn everything expected of the organization, cooperate with the Director/s and with other officers, maintain a sense of responsibility for the organization and wear the TexAnn uniform with pride.

Each officer must always be a good representative of the organization and be the finest example of an ideal TexAnn demonstrated by her attitude, scholarship, and citizenship. She must set high standards and always work to perfect her level of performance and ability in whatever she does. Officers must abide by all requests of the Director/s – Failure to do so will result in demotion to line member and/or removed from the team.

TexAnn Officer PositionsDance officers shall consist of the Colonel, Lieutenant Colonel, Captain and Lieutenants. The

Director/s will determine the number of officers each year; the Colonel and Lieutenant Colonel must be senior members. (However, a junior member may hold the position of Colonel if a qualified senior is not available.) Social officers shall consist of President, Vice-President, and Committee Members.Dance Officers are ranked above Social Officers in all circumstances except social events.

Dance and Social Officers will share the following duties under Director/s discretion Maintain a good working relationship with the Director/s, team and other officers Work with the Director/s when asked to decide on all performances such as pep rallies,

halftime and contest routines, spring show, etc. Represent the organization in a positive manner at any function of the school and

community whether in uniform or not Will set an example for the other team members by maintaining a positive and

cooperative attitude, promoting school spirit and team unity, and for remaining calm and flexible in times of crisis and frustration

Be able to criticize peers in a constructive and effective manner Must be physically and emotionally stable Complete required and/or scheduled squad or team gifts on time Must be an exceptional dancer, teacher and leader Must promote and enforce discipline and respect Officers will hold inspections, check for attendance and tardies Give demerits to team members and other officers under Director/s discretion Must be able to receive demerits without complaint, and with humility

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Teaching under the supervision of the Director/s Responsible for any and all props or materials issued to her squad, and for returning the

items in an orderly fashion Warming up/stretching the team Responsible for her squad’s attitude, morale, discipline and motivation Assist Director/s with decision making for team member awards given Volunteer individual help to team members in learning and perfecting dances

(sometimes outside of practice times if needed) Always be available to squad members if they need information or questions answered Assist with auditions and audition clinics at Director/s discretion Perform all duties required by Director/s and any additional requests of the Director/s

throughout the entire year

Replacement of TexAnn Dance OfficersIf a dance officer decides to dismiss herself or is removed from her position, the steps to fill the

position will be as follows: The Director/s will first promote the next officer within the Dance Officer line while still

following the requirements for each position. (Example: If the Colonel quits, the Lieutenant Colonel will be promoted to Colonel)

After the Director/s have promoted all that qualify to be moved up within the line, any current line member that auditioned for dance officer and did not make it, may be promoted in order of their final score.

If there are no line members left that auditioned and did not make it, the Director/s then have the option to begin promoting Social Officers into a Dance Officer position based on highest earned score. The highest rank a Social Officer can be promoted to is Lieutenant.

It will be under the Director/s discretion as to how many officers are needed for the team each school year. The Director/s may choose to fill the position or not to, based on what is needed.

TexAnn Dance Officer Qualifications Must be going into her junior or senior year at Sam Rayburn HS Must have been a member on the TexAnns Dance Team for at least one full year Member is allowed to audition for a dance officer position ONLY in the Spring of the

current full year she has been a member Must be in good standing with the school, TexAnn organization and Director/s, and be

well within ALL set conduct and grade guidelines and policies of Pasadena ISD and Sam Rayburn TexAnn Constitutions.

In addition to above listed qualifications, to try out for an officer position, each candidate must complete assignments/requirements set forth by the Dance Officer Tryout Packet given by the Director/s.

TexAnn Dance Officers – Shared Requirements Must arrive 15 minutes early to rehearsals, performances, and any other activities

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Stay after each rehearsal until dismissed by Director/s Must attend officer camp as well as ALL other camps attended by the team Must keep a detailed officer notebook and list of all duties performed Must attend all rehearsals and functions, including all officer meetings Shall have a squad consisting of team members; number of members in each squad will

be determined by Director/s each year depending on the size of the team Must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher during her reign

COLONEL The Colonel is the highest ranking officer and is in charge of all items under the

guidance of the Director/s only; reports directly to the Director/s Is next in command in the absence of Director/s Schedules necessary officer meetings (approved by the Director/s) Inspects other officers as well as squad and team members for attendance, tardies, and

items to be worn or brought, etc. Assists Director/s with planning, scheduling practices and calendar Must perform a solo routine in at least one competition Assists Director/s with team at all practices and events as the commanding officer Performs a solo in annual TexAnn Spring Show Assigns duties to other dance officers Reports all merits and demerits of squad members to Director/s, and keeps a running

record in her notebook Performs all duties assigned by Director/s

LIEUTENANT COLONEL The Lieutenant Colonel is second highest ranking officer and assists with all items under

the guidance of the Director/s and Colonel Is next in command in the absence of Director/s and Colonel Assists Colonel in inspecting other officers as well as squad and team members for

attendance, tardies, and items to be worn or brought, etc. Must perform a solo routine in at least one competition Performs a solo in annual TexAnn Spring Show Performs all officer duties assigned/stated above Reports all merits and demerits of squad members to Director/s, and keeps a running

record in her notebook Performs all duties assigned by Director/s and Colonel

CAPTAIN The Captain is third highest ranking officer and assists with all items under the guidance

of the Director/s and Colonel Is next in command in the absence of Director/s, Colonel and Lieutenant Colonel Assists Colonel in inspecting other officers as well as squad and team members for

attendance, tardies, and items to be worn or brought, etc. Must perform a solo routine in at least one competition

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Performs a solo in annual TexAnn Spring Show with approval of Director/s Performs all officer duties assigned/stated above Reports all merits and demerits of squad members to Director/s, and keeps a running

record in her notebook Performs all duties assigned by Director/s and Colonel

LIEUTENANT(S) The Lieutenants are responsible for assisting with all items under the guidance of the

Director/s and Colonel Assists in inspecting squad and team members for attendance, tardies, and items to be

worn or brought, etc. Performs a solo in annual TexAnn Spring Show with approval of Director/s Assist with maintenance of equipment, music, etc. Must perform a solo routine in at least one competition Reports all merits and demerits of squad members to Director/s, and keeps a running

record in her notebook Performs all duties assigned by Director/s and Colonel

TexAnn Social Officer Qualifications Must be going into her junior or senior year at Sam Rayburn HS Must have been a member on the TexAnns Dance Team for at least one full year Member is allowed to audition for officer position ONLY in the Spring of that current full

year Must be in good standing with the school, TexAnn organization and Director/s, and be well

within ALL set conduct and grade guidelines of both the Pasadena ISD and Sam Rayburn o TexAnn Constitutions.

In addition to above listed qualifications, to try out for an officer position, each candidate must complete assignments/requirements set forth by the Social Officer Tryout Packet given by the Director/s.

TexAnn Social Officers Promote good relations and support among other organizations at Sam Rayburn HS Attend meetings with Director/s to discuss ideas for team building Plan and delegate projects for each squad to prepare for Homecoming, and other events

such as holiday parties and/or other school functions Responsible for team morale, attitude, spirit and team building Plan parties and celebrations for all holidays, birthdays, and annual TexAnn Ball Provide ideas for team member gifts for any and all occasions necessary Maintain costume closet; create a catalog of costumes, updated frequently, label boxes

President Organize all social events and make decisions based on the needs of the team and the

directors.

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Organize all social members with delegated duties and the timely manner in which these are accomplished.

Keep open communication with the social and dance officers, as well as the directors. Keep records of all team members’ information and plan celebrations accordingly. Organize Big/Lil Sister festivities.

Vice President In charge of TexAnns history documented through pictures, videos, etc. Maintain the TexAnn display in the Fine Arts hallway at Sam Rayburn HS Assist Director/s and President in keeping records of TexAnn events, memories and

celebrations.

Committee Members Maintain an updated calendar of events posted in the dance room Maintain correspondence with school paper and announcements Keep announcements and college information updated on locker room board Assist Directors, President and Vice President in keeping records of TexAnn events,

memories and celebrations.

MANAGERSThe Director/s shall choose TexAnn managers annually from applicants. They are entitled to all

of the credit and privileges of membership. Although, they are non-performing members, as such they are subject to the same rules and regulations as all other members.

Responsible for attending after school practices, football games, competitions, and any additional performances to aid the team in any way necessary both on location and on route

Escort both TexAnns and JV Starlettes on restroom breaks, to trainer, etc. Perform all duties assigned by Director/s

The Four Seasons of DanceSummer Season

Officer Camp: This usually takes place in June and is a very intense camp based in learning choreography,

technique, but most importantly, student and team leadership. It is required for dance officers ONLY. Parents and TexAnn members may come and watch on “competition night” and/or last day of camp for awards. (Social Officers have a separate camp set forth by the Director/s.)

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Line Camp: The TexAnns attend one camp usually 3-4 days in length. The camp is held out of town or as

a private home camp at school depending on Director/s preference for the team each year. (If the camp is out of town at a hotel, the team is required to stay at the hotel where the camp is being held.) This camp is designed to develop team unity, develop dance skills and technique, learn choreography, etc. There are team/individual evaluations held at camp as well. Parents are encouraged to come to “show offs” on the last day to see what the members have been working so hard on and what awards they’ve won. Summer Practice:

These are practices set forth by the Directors that will be held for 2-3 weeks or more before the new school begins, where the TexAnns and JV Starlettes will prepare themselves physically and mentally for football season and pep rally performances.

Football SeasonFootball Games:

The TexAnns will perform at every scheduled Varsity football game, both home and away. The TexAnns will ride the bus to and from all away football games; no other rides home are permitted, as per PISD policy. All TexAnns are required to audition for each football routine; if a member is not placed in a routine, they will be required to attend all mandatory practices and performances as an alternate. TexAnns are to sit with the team in their squad lines for the duration of the game, prepared to cheer and support Sam Rayburn HS athletes, cheerleaders, etc. JV Starlettes will be required to attend some home games and participate in the stand routines alongside the TexAnns. Director/s will decide which home games JV Starlettes are to attend. Team members may not visit with family or friends during the game, unless otherwise permitted by the Director/s. No jewelry or nail polish while in uniform and NO food or drinks (other than water) is permitted at ANY time while in uniform/costume! It is important to be professional while in uniform and while performing!

Pep Rallies: The TexAnns will perform at as many pep rallies as possible. Pep rallies are fun

opportunities for the Sam Rayburn HS students and staff to see the TexAnns perform other styles during football season. It is an experience for the TexAnns to show their versatility in dance, while also supporting fellow students and peers. Director/s will decide which routines are to be performed at each of the pep rallies.

Buddy Clinic: Clinic hosted by the TexAnns Dance Team and JV Starlettes for children ages 5 years old - 8th

grade level. All team members are required to participate in the clinic and will be responsible for assisting in the teaching process, being a fun and positive influence during all activities, perform such duties as serving snacks and assist officers and Director/s for a smoothly run clinic. This clinic

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provides future TexAnns with a small glimpse into the world of dance and allows them to experience a performance like no other. TexAnns, JV Starlettes and clinic “buddies” will perform the routine learned during the clinic at a home football or basketball game at the director’s discretion.

Competition SeasonCompetitions:

Dance teams from all over the state attend different competitions to contend with one another. Competition season usually includes 3 team routines, 3 officer routines, select/company routines, optional solos, duets and ensembles. The JV Starlettes will also perform one routine at one competition each year. Depending on the Director/s plan for the teams each year, the style and number of routines may vary. We try to attend 2-3 competitions each year, which allows each member to experience a different type of performance. Competition practices are mandatory and multiple absences will not be permitted. Only Director/s may excuse absences at their discretion. Also, attending these competitions does require funding, which requires additional fundraiser participation from all team members and parents. Parents are also encouraged to attend as many competitions as possible to show great support for their TexAnn, JV Starlette, and Sam Rayburn HS.

Spring Show SeasonSpring Show:

An annual concert that is coordinated, choreographed, and presented by the Director/s and the TexAnns; who work diligently to put together this concert that shows off everything they have worked so hard on from the year and much more. Parents, families and friends are greatly encouraged to attend. Spring Show is also used as a fundraiser, selling tickets to the show, programs, flowers and ads (advertisements) for the programs are for sale ahead of time as well. All TexAnns and JV Starlettes are required to sell 10 tickets as a large part of the fundraising, and at least 2 ads as well. Practices for Spring Show are just as important as practices throughout football season and competition season, and unexcused absences are not permitted. Spring Show is a mandatory performance for all TexAnns, JV Starlettes and dance classes as well, but this show is also viewed as the final, grand performance of the year and is held in high regard.

ADDITIONAL EVENTS

*TexAnn Ball: This occasion is a semi-formal event held at the end of each year and is a celebration banquet and dinner for all members and managers of both TexAnns and JV Starlettes Dance Teams. After dinner, traditions are passed down, awards and/or certificates are presented, there is usually a slide show presentation, graduating members are recognized for their dedication to the team, new members and officers are inducted, and much more. It is a memorable occasion each year for the members of the organization.

Team Auditions

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TexAnns – Varsity Dance Team:

***PRE-REQUISITES to audition Must present signed parent permission slip from tryout information sheet Each candidate must have an overall GPA of 2.5 or greater Must be entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade in the upcoming year Must have been enrolled in at least one semester of dance class at Sam Rayburn HS or

any PISD school dance program OR have been a member of JV Starlettes Clean conduct record with Sam Rayburn HS and PISD, no history or background of

violence, drugs or alcohol, or other negative behavior, etc. Must attend the entire tryout clinic the week of auditions (usually Monday-Thursday

after school, tryouts will usually be held on a Friday)

TexAnn AUDITION PROCESS A clinic will be held the week of auditions, attendance is mandatory Candidates will be given a number to be used for the audition process and must not be

lost Candidates will learn a jazz or pom routine as well as a kick series, and be placed into a

group of 4-6 to perform during auditions… *Auditions are CLOSED to SPECTATORS* A panel of 3 outside judges will be brought in to professionally judge the auditions Each group will perform the routine and kick series, right and left splits; Callbacks are

decided by the judges if they feel they must view a candidate more than once Candidates are required to wear all black; a black leotard or fitted top, black Capri

pants or jazz pants, hair is in a neat pony tail with no stray hairs, and appropriate performance makeup

No jewelry, no nail polish, NO GUM, no cover up clothing items Selection of team members will be based on dance and kick technique, projection and

showmanship, appearance, memory, and splits Candidates will learn whether or not they have been selected for the TexAnns Dance

Team once the team auditions have concluded; candidates will be dismissed and the list of new members will be posted within 1-2 hours with ONLY the candidates’ audition numbers, NO NAMES are listed

***Candidates entering their 9 th or 10 th grade year only , and that are not selected for the TexAnn Dance Team, are given the option of joining the JV Starlettes Dance Team; being a member of the JV team allows for additional time to prepare and hone the skills necessary to audition again next year for the TexAnns Dance Team, while still having some performance opportunities (All members of JV Starlettes are required to make any deposits/payments specified by the Director/s)

***A new member of TexAnns or JV Starlettes Dance teams MUST make a deposit on the specified date in order to retain membership***A new member TexAnns or JV Starlettes Dance teams MUST present an up to date physical on or before the first day of Line Camp/Summer Practice to be allowed on team and in practice

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Starlettes – Junior Varsity Dance Team:***The JV Starlettes team has been developed for those who would like to become a

member of the TexAnn Dance Team in the future. Those interested may register ahead of time for the JV dance class (usually scheduled for 8th period) with their 8th grade counselor OR transfer into the class within the first 2 weeks of school at Sam Rayburn HS; a member must be enrolled in the class to be considered an active member of the JV team

***PRE-REQUISITES to join: Must present signed parent permission slip from tryout information sheet Each candidate must have an overall GPA of 2.5 or greater Must be entering 9th or 10th grade in the upcoming year Must make deposit/payments by the designated dates in the spring/summer Must enroll in the JV class period by the designated date in the fall Clean conduct record with previous school and PISD, no history or background of

violence, drugs or alcohol, or other negative behavior, etc.

Need to Know - MembershipPhysical Capabilities:

In order for a student to become a member of the TexAnns Dance Team, they must be physically capable of dancing, kicking, and marching extensively (a Doctor’s physical is required before participating in Line Camp/Summer Practices)

Class Schedule: TexAnn members are required to enroll in the Dance/Drill Team class, 9th period, and must

be able to attend any and all practices scheduled after school and during the summer

Term of Membership: The term of membership shall extend from one tryout period to the following tryout period,

one year later. All non-returning members (including seniors) will remain actively participant in all team functions until the end of the school calendar that year. Each member choosing to return must audition each year.

Early Graduation: Candidates or current members who plan to graduate within the drill team school year may

retain membership in the organization as a line member ONLY, an officer position will NOT be available, Dance Officer OR Social Officer

Appealing team or officer tryout decisions : Statute of limitations concerning appeals must be scheduled within 7 days following the

tryout date. The candidate must file a formal appeal with the PISD administration of Sam Rayburn HS. After the 7 day time period, the decision of the judges will stand.

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Resignation: Resignation shall be defined as a choice made by the individual member that he/she no longer desires to participate in the TexAnn organization. Resignation procedures involve the following:

A conference with the Director/s and a letter of resignation from the resigning member signed and dated with the parent/guardian signature

All uniforms, costumes, clothing and equipment must be turned in and financial obligations must be cleared at the time of resignation (or dismissal)

Student may not wear ANY TexAnn clothing, costumes, uniforms, etc. after resignation (or dismissal). If seen at school in such clothing the student will be asked to remove the item(s) and item(s) will be taken up. The student no longer represents the organization

The member will be held financially liable for any balance due whether it be fundraised or out of pocket, and will be placed on NOT CLEAR list until balanced is settled

NO REFUNDS WILL BE MADE AT ANY TIME for ANY AMOUNT DEPOSITED NO EXCEPTIONS will be made to this rule.

At the time of resignation (or dismissal) during the school year, the student will be assigned to another class as soon as possible and will NOT remain a member of the TexAnn Dance Team for the remainder of the year

Fundraising:Prospective members and their parents must be fully aware of the fundraising that is involved to cover expenses for competitions, personal finances, and anything else said to be necessary by the Director/s. FUNDRAISING IS MANDATORY! For each fundraiser, a quota will be set for team member; if quota is not met it will be the member’s responsibility to pay the remainder of the quota out of pocket. (This total is not the amount sold, but the cleared profit made.) Any money raised above the set quota will be placed in that member’s individual account to be spent on practice wear, camp and any additional expenses.

***Money not raised or paid in full by the designated date, will result in the member being placed on the NOT CLEAR list; will also result in removal from routines, performances and additional probationary steps taken at the Director/s discretion until amount is paid in full.

Practice Wear: All practice wear attire is purchased by the individual TexAnn or JV Starlette and must

be paid for in order to remain a member of the team A schedule will be given of the specific practice wear tops and bottoms to be worn each

day All members will follow the practice wear schedule set forth by the Director/s. (If a

member forgets or wears any incorrect item they will receive a demerit for each item missing)

Some form of dance shoe must be worn to practice: foot paws, jazz shoes, etc. unless otherwise noted by Director/s

Tennis shoes MUST be worn while practicing outside; knee pads MUST be worn during football season for outside practices on the band parking lot

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Cover ups are NOT allowed during rehearsals, hair must be put up neatly and out of the face

Jewelry and gum ARE NOT permitted! A non-team member is NOT allowed to wear any TexAnn or JV Starlette item AT ANY

TIME! Only a TexAnn or JV Starlette may represent these programs by wearing the attire or items

Mandatory Rehearsals: 3-4 day Line Camp, usually scheduled the week before Summer Practice begins 2-3 week Summer Practice, usually scheduled the last weeks before school begins Daily rehearsals set from 9th period through the time set forth by the Director/s Additional rehearsals for competitions and Spring Show

***If a member is not present at the mandatory Line Camp and Summer Practices, he/she will NOT be permitted to perform in any football game halftime performance for the duration of the season

Rehearsal Attendance Policies: All rehearsals are mandatory and each member is expected to attend every day. If a

member knows they will miss a rehearsal, they must call their officer AS SOON AS POSSIBLE to let them know, so Director/s may make changes in a routine if necessary. (Be prepared to answer questions regarding your situation)

If a member is absent twice in a performance week they will be removed from the routine

During football season, if a member is absent the day of band run-through, they will be removed immediately from the routine

Work cannot interfere with rehearsals; work is not an excused absence nor an excuse to leave early or arrive late

Doctor/dentist appointments must not interfere with rehearsals, these appointments are not excused unless scheduled and cleared with Director/s one week in advance

Make up tests or tutorials should be taken during school scheduled tutorial times and any morning before school; additional tutorial time after school should be approved by Director/s

Vacations/trips cannot be scheduled during rehearsals or performances, this will result in removal from routines

A member who is ill needs to be present at rehearsal unless otherwise directed by a doctor (with an official doctor’s note) to stay home. The member will be asked to be a “warm body” in the formations to assist the team and Director/s. If the member cannot attend school/rehearsal, removal may be a result as the member would miss choreography, “cleaning”, etc.

After an absence, the member must return with a parent note; any additional absences may require a Doctor’s note or release to return to practice and performance, explaining the member’s absences

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Excused absences include : personal illness or accident (illnesses must be documented with a Doctor’s note), a funeral or death in the family, other absences, including school field trips, that must be approved by the Director/s one week in advance

ROUTINE TRYOUTS: As a member of the TexAnns, performance and/or placement in a routine is NOT

automatic; being allowed to perform is based on individual excellence, merit, and routine tryout.

Tryouts will be held for all performances/routines throughout the year; football routines, pep rally routines, select competition routines, etc.

Tryouts will be judged by the Director/s All members will abide by the tryout results and will maintain a positive and

professional team attitude whether they are placed in a routine or not A member may be cut from a routine for lack of memory, technique, projection,

flexibility, strength, coordination and/or endurance.

Behavior – ESPECIALLY while in uniform/costume: All members, officers and managers associated with the TexAnns or JV Starlettes will

conduct themselves appropriately as ambassadors of the organization There are no visitors (parents, friends, family) allowed while TexAnns/JV Starlettes are

at a performance, at attention, or any other time unless otherwise allowed by Director/s TexAnns and JV Starlettes will promote school spirit and acceptable behavior at all

times and at all school/community activities. No “booing” or inappropriate language will be tolerated.

Costumes and uniforms are to be worn for performances, appearances or pictures ONLY, they are NOT to be worn without the Director/s permission

The TexAnn field uniform is NOT to be washed in a home washing machine, this will damage the uniform; it must be taken to a professional dry cleaner at the discretion of the Director/s

There is ABSOLUTELY NO EATING OR DRINKING in ANY COSTUME OR UNIFORM at ANY time; ONLY water is allowed while in uniform, other items will result in demerit(s) for the member

TRANSPORTATION:All team members (including managers) are REQUIRED to ride in transportation provided by

the school to and from all TexAnn and JV Starlette events. Exceptions shall be made according to the following guidelines which apply to leaving the event only . Due to the possibility of unpredictable circumstances, all members are required to ride with the PISD transportation going to all events, unless:

The member’s parent/guardian personally requests in writing or by e-mail that the member be allowed to ride with the parent/guardian

Excuse must be approved by the Fine Arts Assistant Principal/Administrator in advance as well as with Director/s

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The member’s parent/guardian presents a written request to the Director/s no later than one week before the scheduled trip

The member will only be released to the parent/guardian; the parent/guardian must pick up the member at a specific area designated by the Director/s (the member may not leave the group to meet the parent/guardian at any other location)

While on the bus: Members may choose their own seat, but MUST remain seated for the entire ride No loud or disrespectful behavior will be tolerated, no limbs extended outside the bus;

each member must abide by all TexAnn / JV Starlette set guidelines even while on a bus ride, disciplinary actions will be taken

When the bus arrives at the destination, members must remain seated until the Director/s have given permission to stand and exit; the bus must have NO trash and MUST be clean or else the team will be held responsible as a whole and will receive a demerit

INELIGIBILITY – UIL Regulations:If a student/member receives one or more failing grades in a 6 week period, that student is

ineligible for the following 6 week period, and will be placed on probation. At the 3 week progress report time, if the member is passing ALL subjects, the member is again eligible for the performance with the team.

If a student/member received an “I” for incomplete grade, the grade must be resolved during the “7 day grace period” following the end of the 6 weeks. If the student/member is passing at that time, they will be eligible to perform with the team. If the grade is failing, the student/member will not be eligible.

***If a member is placed on probation 3 times in the year, consecutive or not, that member automatically loses membership from the organization***If an officer is placed on probation for a second time, she will be demoted back to the line

Regulations of Ineligibility Student/members shall not travel with the team, sit with the team or wear team

uniforms during performance or competition Student/members shall not wear any item of clothing that represents TexAnns or JV

Starlettes Student/members must attend all practices with the team Ineligibility goes into effect on the 7th day, at the closing of the school day, after the last

day of the grading period for the 6 weeks Ineligible members must attend tutoring for the class(s) at least 2 times a week; a

signed note from the teacher(s) is required to be presented to the Director/s

OVERALL BEHAVIOR:TexAnns and JV Starlettes will display appropriate behavior both in and out of school. They

are responsible for upholding the standards set for the organization at all times. At the Director/s discretion, suspension or dismissal may result for any of the following reasons:

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Smoking Use of alcohol Use of illegal drugs Fighting or being involved with a group fight Improper/Inappropriate language or obscenities Poor sportsmanship Failure to follow school rules and policies Improper conduct or attitude Disrespect toward Director/s, team members, faculty, school personnel or property Stealing/Shoplifting Chronic Misconduct Chronic Absences Hazing Truancy Forging notes or passes Cheating in any way Improper use of social media

Cell phones: Cell phones are not allowed in the SRHS dance room/studio unless otherwise noted by

the Director/s; they must remain locked, on silent in the members’ locker If a cell phone is in the dance room or a ring is heard, that member will receive

demerit(s) and the phone will be taken up At competition or any other performance designated by the Director/s, cell phones will

be turned in and given back at the end of the competition or performance; this is to ensure that the members remain focused and are not distracted by their phones during the performances

DISCIPLINARY SYSTEM: Any situation that occurs during the year that constitutes a demerit(s) will be at the

Director/s discretion as to how many are received. (Including items not listed in this constitution)

Demerits reinforce the dance team and PISD student code of conduct; this code sets high standards for its members

Demerits are given out by the Director/s and officers; Officers must report all demerits given to the Director/s first, Director/s have final say on the reasoning and amount of demerits

Director(s) will keep a record of each member’s demerits Demerits begin in the summer season and end at the end of each year Demerits are recorded in the dance studio. An accumulation of 10 demerits will result

in a 2 week performance probation (Dance and Social Officers will lose their position at this point); 11-14 demerits will each result in a 1 week performance suspension. *An

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accumulation of 15 demerits in one year will result in the loss of membership from the organization.

Actions that may result in demerits (include but not limited to):

Penalties/Demerits Tardy to performance/function – 1/every 5 minutes Not abiding by TexAnn constitution – 1-10 Talking back/insubordination to officer or director – 1-5 Unacceptable absence from practice – 1-3 Failure to attend required performance/activity – 1-5 Persistent lack of proper attitude – 1-5 Talking when told not to – 1 Chewing gum while representing the organization – 1 Unacceptable use of cell phone at practice – 1 Unacceptable use of cell phone at activity/performances – 1 Failure to bring props/supplies to performance by roll call – 2 PDA in or out of TexAnn uniform – 1-5 Lack of participation in activities (fundraising, cheering, etc.) – 1-5 Loss/missing piece of uniform during the scheduled time frame Football uniform, game day outfit, etc.) MAY RESULT IN

REMOVAL FROM ROUTINE – 1-5 per missing piece Unclean boots – 1 Nail polish on hands or feet (when applicable) – 1 Inappropriate use of social media (Dir. Disc.) – 1-15 and possible removal from team Wrinkled uniform – 3 Crushed hat – 3 Missing part of uniform (Dir. Disc.) – 1-5 Jewelry – 1/piece Eating/Drinking in Uniform (Dir. Disc.) – 1-5 Horseplay in Uniform – 1-3 Failure to have uniforms in bag (Dir. Disc.) – 1-3 Wearing uniform without permission (Dir. Disc.) – 1-5 Using hairspray in uniform (Dir. Disc.) – 1-3 and payment of needed replacement/repairs due to negligence Soiled uniform – 1-3 Rips/Tears not repaired – 1-5 Not following guidelines in “summer camp”, “football”, “basketball”, “contest”, “spring show”, “game day”, and any other

section in the constitution – 1-5***Any offense may result in removal from a given routine(s) along with appropriate demerits***

*Dance Officers and Social Officers will receive DOUBLE the amount of demerits for any offense; officers are to set a good example and uphold the standards set for the organizations

MERITS:Merits are viewed as positive “extra credit” or “bonus points” for members who extend

themselves beyond what is asked for by the Director/s; merits show that the member is dedicated, hardworking and a good asset to the organization. Merits are also viewed by judges at officer tryouts in the spring to assist the judges in the process of choosing officers based not only on their individual technique and dance skill, but also on their contribution, attitude and dedication. Opportunities will be given throughout the year to earn merits in numerous ways, and the Director/s may reward a member with merits at any time for any reason they feel necessary.

Opportunities to earn merits include but are not limited to: Cleaning the dance room/studio/locker room

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Bringing daily supplies for dance room (feminine needs, classroom supplies, etc.) Volunteering extra assistance for Director/s Earning “dancer” or “spirit” of the week during football season Performing in competition routines Bringing extra supplies for events Extra performances deemed by the Director/s

Letter Jackets:Letter jackets will be awarded to an active senior TexAnn, after being an active member of

the team for 2 full years. Being a member of the JV Starlettes does not count toward this time.

Grading System:Dance team members’ grades will be determined by daily participation and performances

Contracts and Packets:In addition to the TexAnn/JV Starlette Contract, all other packets or information given is

part of the rules and guidelines for the TexAnn/JV Starlette organizations and fall under the signed consent for the Member Contract and the Financial Agreement

ALL RULES SET FORTH IN THIS CONTRACT ARE IMPLEMENTED AT THE DIRECTOR/S DISCRETION. AMOUNT OF PUNISHMENT FOR A SITUATION THAT IS NOT SPECIFIED IN THIS CONTRACT WILL BE AT THE DIRECTOR/S DISCRETION. ANY SITUATIONS THAT ARISE THAT ARE NOT LISTED IN THIS CONTRACT WILL BE HANDLED AT THE DIRECTOR/S DISCRETION. THE DIRECTOR/S RESERVE THE RIGHT TO MAKE ANY AMENDMENTS TO THIS CONTRACT AT ANY TIME THAT IS DEEMED NECCESARY. WHEN EXTRAORDINARY SITUATIONS OCCUR THAT NEED TO BE HANDLED WITH ADDITIONAL CARE, NOT SPECIFIED IN THIS CONTRACT, WILL BE AT THE DIRECTOR/S DISCRETION FOR THE GOOD OF THE TEAM, NOT THE INDIVIDUAL.

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LaNeese Gareri Tracey KlinglerTexAnn / JV Starlette - Director TexAnn / JV Starlette - Assistant Director

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_____________________________________________

Robert Stock Principal - Sam Rayburn High School

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