Class Policies & Community Agreements
The Sonoma Community Center (the Center) strives to create an inclusive, safe community where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. The Center is committed to creating such an environment because it brings out the fullest potential in each of us, which, in turn, contributes directly to creating a community of belonging. In order to ensure a positive, safe, and welcoming experience for everyone, all program participants are asked to abide by the following policies, community agreements, and restorative safety protocol.
Payment
The Sonoma Community Center assessed the sliding scale payment system and determined it did not serve the community as intended. After conducting a survey, and analyzing internal data, we determined that the lowest price tier has not always been accessible to those who need it most. In response, as of July 1, 2024 we are moving to a simplified registration process. The new registration will have a general enrollment fee plus options for tuition assistance. Tuition assistance is accessible through an online request form; the additional participant information will allow us to tailor accessible pricing for individual needs and increase our ability to offer more pricing options. Also available upon registration is the option to add a tax-deductible donation to support the Center’s ability to help community members across the arts.
Full and partial scholarships requests will be answered within 5 days. Please fill out the form as soon as possible as many classes fill up quickly. Your scholarship request will automatically place a hold on a registration slot. You can apply for multiple scholarships with in the year. Please contact Gerardo Diaz for more information at Gerardo@sonomacommunitycenter.org
Late additions & pro-rating
Late additions to any program, class, or workshop that has already begun will be allowed on a per-case basis depending upon the Program Director & instructors approval. Late additions will have to pay the full registration cost of the class, along with any materials fees, and will not be prorated for the time missed. You may reach out to the program directors directly, or the Program Associate Sean Baskin at sean@sonomacommunitycenter.org to request a late addition.
cancellation
We ask that you notify us at least 10 days in advance of a class if you need to cancel your registration. You may cancel by phone or email and we will gladly offer you a refund or credit toward a future class. If you cancel with less than 10 days’ notice, we will not be able to provide refunds, due to our contractual obligations and material purchases for each class.
Sometimes, the Sonoma Community Center has to cancel a class due to low enrollment or unforeseen circumstances, such as a natural disaster or health emergency. If this happens and we do not offer a reschedule date, you will be refunded 100% of your registration fee, or credit towards a future class. If we are able to offer a reschedule date but you are unable to make the new date, we will gladly offer credit towards a future class.
All credits must be used within 1 year.
What to expect at your class
Students are responsible for obtaining materials list from the Center in advance of each course. Art class students should “dress for mess.” Students are expected to be on time for all classes and conduct themselves in an appropriate manner. Lectures or demonstrations will not be repeated for students who are tardy or absent. Students engaging in disruptive or inappropriate behavior may be dismissed from a session or course at the discretion of the instructor.
Not sure which level is right for you? Here is a guide to selecting a class.
- All Levels
- Welcomes participants from beginning through advanced. Instructor provides a balanced and flexible curriculum suitable for participants with any level of experience.
- Beginning
- Participant has little to no experience with this medium and needs or expects guidance at every step during the class. Participant wants to learn about materials, techniques, and vocabulary of the medium.
- Intermediate
- Participant is comfortable with the medium and expects both guidance and time to work alone with the medium.
- Advanced
- Participant is very confident with all aspects of the medium. Participant is self-motivated; ready to experiment and develop their artistic voice.
COVID Health & safety
To maintain the health and safety of all participants in light of the COVID pandemic, the Community Center has established a COVID prevention and response policy. Currently, we are not requiring masks, though all are welcome to wear them.
photo release
By enrolling in a Sonoma Community Center arts education program, you agree to all of the Center’s program policies, as outlined below. Unless permission is refused in writing, it is understood that the Center may photograph, video, or make an audio recording of you as a participant for the purposes of documentation and promotion.
service animals
We welcome ADA-certified service animals. All other animals are not allowed inside public areas of the building. Any animals who visit our outdoor spaces must be leashed or remain inside a vehicle.
release of liability
It is understood that by enrolling, the attendee or their legal guardian agrees to indemnify and hold the Center harmless and release the Center, its officers, employees, and agents from any and all liability for any injury arising out of or in any way connected with participation in the activity.
where can I find my class?
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