Why We Sometimes Lock the Front Door: A Commitment to Student Safety and Operational Care

At Encore Studios, every decision we make is rooted in care—for our students, our families, and our team. One question we occasionally hear is: Why is the front door sometimes locked during business hours? The answer is simple: it's about safety, security, and operational efficiency.

Let’s break it down.

🔒 Safety First: Protecting Our Students and Staff

Like many businesses, we may lock one side of our double-door entrance or temporarily secure the front door when staff are away from the desk. This isn’t about being unwelcoming—it’s about being protective of all who attend Encore Studios.

• Controlled Access: By limiting entry points, we can better monitor who comes in and out, ensuring that only authorized individuals are on the premises. When staff step away to restock, clean, or assist in a classroom, locking the door ensures no one enters unattended.
• Staff & Student Protection: If a student or staff member is alone in the lobby, a locked door can provide an added layer of security, especially if someone suspicious is lingering outside. 
• Theft Prevention: A locked door helps deter “grab-and-run” incidents and ensures that no one can enter unnoticed when staff are assisting students elsewhere in the building.

🛠️ Environmental Efficiency: Supporting a Comfortable Climate

• Climate Control: Keeping one door locked reduces drafts and helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside—important for dancers and families alike.

📣 Clear Communication: Keeping You in the Loop

We know that a locked door can feel confusing if you’re not expecting it, and that’s why we are providing clarity with this message.  In most cases its simply a matter of waiting for a few minutes in the vestibule until a staff member returns to the lobby.  At other times, you'll see a sign with instructions on who to call or message se we can promptly let you in.

At the heart of it all, locking the front door isn’t about closing you out—it’s about keeping everyone inside safe, supported, and seen. Thank you for understanding and for being part of a community that values care in every detail.

Let us know if you have questions or suggestions—we’re always listening.

💫 10 Things You Didn’t Realize Your Encore Studios Dance Teacher Does…

Behind every graceful leap and confident smile on stage is a team of passionate professionals working tirelessly to create confidence, creativity and community.

There’s so much more happening at Encore Studios than just dance steps...

1. 🍽️ Sacrificed Family Time

Encore dance teachers miss dinner with their families, and only get to tuck in their own children after long nights at the studio. Their dedication to your child’s growth often comes at personal cost.

2. 🕰️ Studio Family First

Encore teachers pour countless hours into building a supportive studio community to ensure your child feels seen, safe, and celebrated.

3. 💪 Pushing Through Pain

From old injuries to aching feet, dance teachers tend to push through physical discomfort to keep classes running. Their passion for sharing dance with your child outweighs the pain.

4. 😰 Sleepless Nights

Before competitions, exams, or recitals, Encore teachers worry just like parents do. They want every student to shine and often lose sleep making sure everything is just right.

5. 🎭 Creative Choreography

Choreography isn’t just steps—it’s artistic vision, clever patterning, and hours of planning. Every routine at Encore Studios is professionally crafted to challenge, inspire, and showcase each dancer’s progress.

6. 🎶 Endless Music Scouting

Encore Studios teachers spend hours combing through music libraries to find the perfect song that is age appropriate, emotionally impactful, and inspirational for both the dancer & the audience.  The song must also support the choreography that will make each dancer shine.

7. ✂️ Painstaking Music Editing

Found the perfect song? Great—except it’s five minutes long 🙄😬.  Encore teachers spend hours editing tracks to fit choreography while making it sound seamless and professional.

8. 👗 Costume Coordination

Each season involves selecting 50+ unique costumes that are age-appropriate, affordable, and loved by students. Ordering, sizing, and delivery? That’s a full-time job in itself.

9. 💬 Relentless Encouragement

They challenge your child to grow—physically and emotionally. Every correction, cheer, and passionate pep talk is rooted in a desire to help students become their best selves.

10. ❤️ Gratitude for You

Teachers at Encore Studios are deeply thankful for every family that walks through their doors. They love what they do, and they love sharing that joy with your child.

✨ At Encore Studios, your tuition supports more than just dance classes—it fuels a community built on passion, care, and excellence.  To learn more about our programs and philosophy, visit www.encoreperformer.com.