YEAH! Program policies
YEAH! is committed to creating a safe and empowering environment for all of our youth.
Please read and review the following policies, which apply to all YEAH! programs and events.
PROGRAM NORMS:
Don’t be sorry, you rock!: Everyone makes mistakes and we don’t need to apologize if we didn’t harm anyone with our mistake.
Move up, move back: We encourage everyone to step forward and also to leave space for others to step forward.
Be a croissant, not a donut: Open up and make others feel welcome.
Default to trust: Trust that everyone is coming from a good place.
Individually, I know something; together, we know a lot.
Don’t yuck my yum: Don’t make anyone feel bad for what they enjoy!
Teamwork makes the dream work!
Stretch, not strain: We want to challenge ourselves, not overwhelm ourselves.
Collaboration over competition: Every voice makes the music stronger.
Phone USE Policy:
At YEAH!, we want every participant to be fully present for the music, the creativity, and each other. During program activities, phones are placed in a designated area supervised by YEAH! staff, where they stay in sight. Participants can check their phones during breaks and transitions.
A few things to know:
Emergencies: Families who need to reach their child during the program can call or text the program lead at the number provided at the beginning of the program. We’ll make sure your child gets the message right away.
Medical and accessibility needs: Participants who rely on their phone for a medical device, such as a glucose monitor, or for accessibility can keep it with them. Just let us know ahead of time.
Music use: Teaching artists may invite participants to use their phones for music activities, like tuning an instrument or recording a song to practice at home.
Photos and videos: To protect everyone’s privacy, participants may not photograph or record other participants without permission from a teaching artist.
If a participant has trouble following the policy, we’ll start with a friendly reminder and reach out to families if it continues.
Discipline & Accountability Policy
At YEAH!, we believe music is a powerful tool for self-expression, mutual respect, and community-building. Our programs are not just about learning an instrument; they are about learning about other aspects of music, forming bands, inspiring positive change, sharing voices, and growing together. We intentionally cultivate an environment where every participant feels seen, heard, and valued, regardless of background, identity, or experience level.
Core Community Values We ask all participants and guardians to commit to these core values:
Respect for self, one another, and our shared spaces
Inclusion, equity, and accessibility for all shared and unique identities, cultures, and voices.
Supportive collaboration, centering teamwork over competition, active listening, participation, and kindness in classes, band dynamics, and peer learning
Courage to try something new, take risks, make mistakes, and create while being engaged and supporting others along the way
What We Don’t Allow To protect the dignity and safety of every participant, we do not tolerate:
Any form of discrimination, harassment, bullying, exclusion, or exclusion
Hurtful or demeaning language about race, gender, sexuality, ability, appearance, or beliefs
Disrespect of fellow participants, team members, equipment, or property
Repeated, willful disregard for staff instructions or community agreements
Accountability, Not Punishment: Our 3-Step Process We view discipline as an opportunity for reflection, learning, and repair—not shame or punishment. Here's how we address ongoing challenges:
Step 1: For first time infraction, a compassionate conversation. A staff member and additional adult will speak with the participant to reflect on the impact of their actions and find a path forward (public/private apology, repairing action, written reflection), .
Step 2: For a second offense by the same individual, a meeting with the participant, staff, and parent/guardian to support deeper understanding and alignment.
Step 3: If behavior continues to disrupt the safety or well-being of the community after Steps 1 and 2, the participant may be dismissed from the program.
We know that growth can come from mistakes, and we are committed to supporting our campers while protecting the integrity and safety of our community.