Not everyone knows how to behave in pole class. If explaining your class rules aren’t enough to get your point cross and private discussions haven’t helped, it may be time to fire your student. Here are some situations where you may find yourself having to do just that.

1. She puts down other students.

Pole class needs to be a safe place – not just physically, but emotionally. Everyone is learning to express themselves and push themselves and put downs are not allowed. If talking to the student doesn’t help, tell her to take her business elsewhere.

2. She ignores your rules about what she can – and can’t – do on the pole.

Whatever your students may do on their home poles is their business – but in your studio, where you pay insurance and your reputation is on the line, either they follow your rules or they move on. If she can’t respect that, show her the door.

3. She repeatedly shows up for class covered in lotion and bronzer.

If explanations haven’t worked, try having her sit on the floor and watch when everyone else gets on the pole. Either she’ll stop moisturizing before class or she’ll stop showing up. And if she insists on touching the pole, it’s time for her to leave.

4. She just wants to goof off and never takes the class seriously.

Everyone gets giggly in pole class and some people are natural hams. But if your student is being so disruptive that others are being annoyed and the class is being interfered with, then it’s time for her to find other activities.

5. She hogs the pole because she thinks she’s the best.

Um, that’s so not how pole class works. If you think you’re the best, you move up a level, you don’t keep everyone else from improving. Besides, we all know she’s not as good as she thinks she is.

6. She takes it upon herself to explain moves to the other students.

A little conversation between students is natural, but when someone is moving in on your turf, that’s a problem. You are the one with the training to teach pole. You are the one with the experience. If she can’t tell the difference between the two of you, one of you needs to leave. (Hint: it’s not you.)

See also When to Fire Your Pole Dance Instructor.