Safe Learning Environment Statement
The Squam Ridge School of Music is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where students of all ages can learn, grow, and develop as musicians. Student safety and well-being are central to all educational activities and interactions.
Secure Access to the Facility
Lessons and programs are conducted in designated teaching spaces with controlled access. Parents and guardians are welcome to accompany young students to lessons and may remain on-site if they choose. Only authorized students, family members, instructors, and invited guests are permitted in instructional areas.
Hazard-Free Environment
Teaching spaces are maintained to provide a clean, organized, and hazard-free environment. Equipment, furniture, and instructional materials are regularly monitored to ensure they are in good condition and appropriate for educational use. Walkways and exits are kept clear to promote safe movement throughout the facility.
Supervision
Students remain under the supervision of their instructor during scheduled lesson or class times. Parents or guardians are responsible for supervising students before and after lessons unless otherwise arranged. Instruction is provided in professional teaching spaces designed to promote visibility, communication, and student safety.
Online Safety
Online lessons are conducted using secure video conferencing platforms. Communications regarding scheduling, lesson materials, and student progress are conducted directly with adult students or with parents or guardians of minor students whenever appropriate. Personal student information is kept confidential and is not shared except as required by law or with parental consent.
Health and Allergies
Parents and adult students are encouraged to notify the school of any allergies, medical conditions, or accommodations that may affect participation in lessons or programs. Reasonable efforts will be made to provide a safe learning environment and to accommodate individual needs whenever possible.
Commitment to Student Well-Being
Squam Ridge School of Music strives to foster an atmosphere of mutual respect, professionalism, inclusivity, and encouragement. All students are expected to be treated with dignity and respect, and the school is committed to maintaining an environment free from harassment, discrimination, bullying, and inappropriate conduct.
Background Check Policy & Procedures
The Squam Ridge School of Music is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and professional learning environment for all students. To help ensure student safety, all employees and instructors who have direct contact with students are required to undergo a criminal background check before providing instruction or participating in school programs.
- All prospective employees, instructors, and teaching staff who will have direct contact with students must complete a criminal background check before the start of employment or teaching duties.
- Employment or teaching privileges are contingent upon satisfactory completion and review of the background check.
- The Directors review background check results and determine eligibility for employment based on the safety and well-being of students.
- Background check records are maintained confidentially in accordance with applicable privacy laws and school recordkeeping practices.
- Any individual who is found to have a criminal history that may pose a risk to students may be deemed ineligible for employment or teaching responsibilities.
- The school reserves the right to require updated background checks when appropriate or as required by law or funding agencies.