Director and Staff Code of Ethics

As a YATA director, instructor, or staff member, I commit to:

Putting Students First

  • Prioritize the physical, emotional, and educational well-being of students.
  • Foster an environment where every participant feels safe, valued, and respected.
  • Remember that our influence extends beyond the classroom and stage.

Leading with Professionalism

  • Model the behavior, work ethic, and character we expect from students.
  • Communicate clearly, honestly, and respectfully.
  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times.

Treating Students Equitably

  • Provide opportunities for growth to students of all experience levels.
  • Evaluate students fairly and consistently.
  • Recognize and encourage effort, improvement, and dedication.

Supporting the Team

  • Collaborate with fellow directors and staff in a spirit of unity.
  • Avoid undermining colleagues publicly or privately.
  • Resolve disagreements professionally and constructively.

Stewarding the Organization

  • Protect YATA’s reputation, resources, facilities, and mission.
  • Make decisions that serve the long-term health of the organization. 
  • Remember that we are caretakers of something larger than ourselves.

Building Future Leaders

  • Teach students not only performance skills but also responsibility, empathy, teamwork, and service.
  • Use theatre as a vehicle for character development.
  • Create opportunities for students to learn leadership through action.

Casting with Integrity

  • Make casting decisions with fairness, objectivity, and professional judgment.
  • Evaluate students based on the artistic needs of the production, the educational goals of the program, and their readiness for the responsibilities of a role.
  • Avoid favoritism, personal bias, conflicts of interest, or the appearance of preferential treatment.
  • Balance what is best for the production with opportunities for meaningful student growth and development.
  • Recognize that casting is both an artistic and educational responsibility, requiring thoughtful consideration of each student’s strengths, potential, and journey.
  • Provide equitable opportunities for students to learn, grow, and be challenged throughout their time at YATA.
  • Communicate casting decisions professionally and respectfully, recognizing the emotional investment students place in the process.
  • Encourage students to find value, purpose, and pride in every role, understanding that meaningful contributions come in many forms.
  • Remember that every casting decision reflects the values of YATA and should reinforce a culture where all students feel seen, respected, and supported.