Grading Contract

Orchestra Grading Contract

Orchestra grades are comprised of four categories:

1. 40% = Performances and Rehearsals

Performances and Rehearsals are Mandatory. Unexcused absences from performances will result in a significant lowering of your grade for the grading period. Performances are the focus of what we work towards as an ensemble. It is each person's responsibility to honor our commitment to each other. ‘Every orchestra member is important and integral to our success.' We know we'll be able to count on your presence. Careful planning with your Orchestra schedule will eliminate any unnecessary conflicts!

Any unexcused absence or tardy from/for a rehearsal - which includes early morning rehearsals, extra rehearsals for festival (etc.) preparation and any scheduled Solo & Ensemble rehearsals called by the Director or ensemble coach - will result in a lowered grade. Attendance at a performance or rehearsal results in a grade of ‘100'. A tardy from a rehearsal results in a grade of ‘85'. An unexcused absence from a rehearsal results in a grade of ‘50'. And finally, an unexcused absence from a performance results in a grade of ‘0'. Notice of a predetermined absence must be given to the Director at least 24 hours in advance. A 24 hour notice does not guarantee being excused. Situations will be considered on an individual basis. Excuses after the fact will not be considered unless it is an emergency situation, which can be called in or sent in the next day by the parent.

Unexcused and Excused Absences (What they are)

The success of the Orchestra Program is dependent on each student. A calendar with orchestra activities is distributed as part of the handbook at the beginning of the school year (in May, for returning students). Please refer to it often to avoid unnecessary conflicts. Following are statements deemed as inexcusable for absences.

Unexcused Reasons Solution

1. "Had to work" 1. Make arrangements with your employer in advance.

2. "Couldn't get a ride" 2. Be responsible.

3. "Didn't know about it." 3. Be responsible.

4. "Parents didn't know about it" 4. Clear your schedule with parents well in advance.

5. "Parents made me stay home 5. See #2, #3, and #4.

and study."

Excuses that will be acceptable are:

1. Sickness or death in the family.

2. Emergencies that cannot be helped (Bring a note from a parent the following day).

3. If you are sick and/or cannot make it to a performance, it is your responsibility to call one of the orchestra officers or the Director to let them know in advance. This will allow time to make adjustments for the performance.

* Ex post facto (after the fact) excuses WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

2. 30% = Classroom Competency

Your individual musical progress is vital to the success of the Orchestra program. You will be held accountable at the end of each grading period, through performance and/or written assessment. It is essential that you have your instrument, music, and all necessary accessories each day to get full credit for your competency grade. Your performance music, scale studies, and technique exercises will be part of this category as well. In addition, your attitude and work ethic (behavior) will be reflected in this portion of your grade. Attitude makes the difference - in your playing, in your interaction with others, and in the rewards that you will ultimately receive. Grading for the ‘Classroom Competency ' component is as follows: first offense during class lowers your grade from a ‘100' to an '85'. A second offense during the same class lowers your daily participation grade to a ‘0'.

3. 15% = Playing/Written Tests

Playing and written tests will account for 15% of the overall orchestra grade. This component should be ‘formative' in nature and focused on identifying and improving deficiencies.

4. 15% = Exams

Exams will account for 15% of the overall orchestra grade. The exams may be written or performance oriented and will be ‘summative' in nature.

• Cut and return--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Please detach and return this portion of the grading contract to the Director.

I have read and understand the Orchestra grading contract as stated in the Orchestra Handbook. I understand that in the event of a conflict over grades, policies, and/or expectations this contract will be referred to for verification as well as actions to be taken.

Date:______________

Print student name here _____________________________________________

Signatures:

PARENT(S) / GUARDIAN __________________________________________

STUDENT ________________________________________________________