Guidelines  for  Instructors    

 

The purpose of these guidelines is to help make the experience of teaching at Yoga by Donation as rewarding and cooperative as possible within the context of clear expectations.

 

Who We Are

 

We are local teachers of various types of yoga and related healing disciplines.  What brings us together is our desire to reach out to people at all levels of physical and financial ability and to people who want to support a studio that does that routinely, as a way of doing business.  Go to the Classes page of our web site to determine what we teach and go to the Instructors page to find contact and other info about us. 

 

Before Class

 

If you are ever the first to arrive at the back door in the morning and the door is locked you need to keep it unlocked as follows.  Take your key out and go inside.  Then let the door close and manually push in the panic bar and hold it in as you use the key that’s hanging on a chain right beside the door.  Insert this key in the only hole it can reach on the door and turn the key clockwise just enough to lock the panic bar in.  That keeps the door from locking when it closes.  If you use a rock to hold the door ajar instead, we’ll cool down the building fast.

 

Arrive at the studio at least 10 minutes before class starts to introduce yourself to and to welcome your students.  Before students arrive, go to the sign-in pad, skip a line from the last entry and write in today’s date and time of your class and your first name, then underline this line.  All attending students can then sign in right under this line. Ask students you do not know if this is their first time taking a class at Yoga by Donation.  If it is, show them the keys to the bathrooms, the changing rooms and where they can put their coats and shoes.  Explain how the sign-in pad works, asking them to use both first and last names to help us all learn their names.  Have new students also fill out a registration card.  Explain that this card will put them on our email list but it is easy to unsubscribe at any time.  Leave the card on the teacher communication pad for Bob to send out a thank you email. 

 

If students are not first timers, you might ask them if they are getting our emails and if there are any

changes we should note on our registration card for them – for example, new email, phone number or emergency contact information.  If there is, pull their card, have them make the changes and, if there is an email address change, put the card on the teacher communication pad for Bob to take home

 

Even though the donation box is hard to miss, you may need to point it out to new students.  But respect our policy that all donations can be anonymous and all are appreciated.  Some students will put something into the box before class and some after class.  Some will donate some days but not others.  Most will use cash but checks made out to Yoga by Donation are also fine.  We support all these options as well as services they might want to provide to the running of the studio.  Service offering ideas can be put into the donation box for Bob to review.  There are scrap pieces of paper in the blue holder that will work fine for this purpose.

 

Teach Your Best Class Possible

 

By positioning yourself and your students in a circle, you reinforce the message that we are all practitioners together.  However, this is not a required set-up.  If there are over 12 students in your class, consider staggering their mats, with every other mat closer and further from the centerpiece, or consider an inner and outer circle. Teaching at Yoga by Donation is an opportunity to teach the class that embraces your passion.  Take advantage of this opportunity even when you are subbing for another teacher.  We believe that all our instructors have something unique to offer students and their yoga practice can benefit from all our instructors.  If there is not a class immediately following yours and you want to run over, check this out with your students first.  As best you can, start on time and end on time.  End with a mediation or relaxation.

 

After Class

 

After class, remind those new students who did not have time to fill out a registration card to do so.  Thank them for coming and for whatever donations they can afford – as we depend on donations to keep our doors open.  Also, ask them to spread the word to their family, friends and co-workers about the opportunity available at Yoga by Donation.  Make sure they take away all their belongings and know where they can store their mats at the studio – on the shelf in the yoga room.  Leave the studio picked up and ready for the next class.  Put left-behind student items in the Lost & Found basket beside the sign-in desk and add water to the water canister or water bottle beneath it (from the Women’s Room sink) as needed.

 

The Teacher Communication Pad

 

The only other pad on the desk besides the sign-in pad is the teacher communication pad.  Use it to communicate with Bob Vaccaro, the studio manager, other teachers, and to jot down messages from the answering machine.

 

Bad-Weather Cancellations

If it is hard for you to get to the studio due to bad weather, email or phone Bob and if he doesn’t want to sub for you, he will post a cancellation notice on the home page of our web site.

 

Subbing

 

If you need a sub for your class, notify the teacher group by email or Bob by email or phone.  If you obtain your own sub, let Bob know by email or phone as to who you chose.  If no one responds, make sure Bob posts a cancellation notice on the home page of our web site.  When you sub, you are expected to teach your class and not try to duplicate the teacher you are subbing for.  However, as in any class, do your best to orient your instruction to the students present.  For pay calculation purposes, that class will count toward your number of classes taught in that quarter.  To make this happen put your name on the sign-in pad to the right of the date and time of the class.

 

How We Get Paid

 

By teaching at Yoga by Donation, we understand that each calendar quarter is a new calculation period and we get paid at the end of each quarter.  During the first quarter of 2009, we are budgeting $6000 or $2000 per month for all expenses for operating the studio.  This includes rent, repayment to Bob for studio renovations, fees to Web.com, Constant Contact, Bay Ring, printers etc.  Any moneys collected in donations over $6000 in this quarter will be distributed to all our regularly scheduled teachers proportional to the number of classes taught in the quarter.  A class in which no students show up is counted as a class taught for this purpose.  Studio rental income is tracked separately.

 

How much we get paid will depend on how fast our student population grows.  We all know people who would appreciate attending quality yoga classes if they knew about our exceptional setting and our flexibility about donations.  Spread the word not only about your classes but about the studio in general. We will all benefit no matter whose classes fill.  Some students may donate periodically but not in your class – and that’s fine.  What matters is that we serve our students as best we can and trust that donations will grow along with our student population.

 

Other Expectations between Yoga by Donation and Instructors

 

If you need to stop teaching for any reason at Yoga by Donation, please give Bob two weeks notice so he has time to find a replacement.  Expect the same from him if he needs you to stop teaching at Yoga by Donation for any reason. 

 

Suggestions Welcome from Students and Instructors

 

If students have suggestions for improvements, have them put them in writing and place them in the donation box.  There are scrap pieces of paper in the registration card holder behind the registration cards.  These will work fine for this purpose.  If you have suggestions, let Bob know by email or phone.


  

Student and Instructor Testimonials

 

This is beautiful. I have meant to say so for a while, since you first began mining this idea.  I LOVE it.  We are making a space for people of all walks of life to learn about and join in the practice of yoga.  It is fantastic. Maggie

 

What a great concept!  Please let me know if you would like additional instructors, I really don't care about getting paid, I just want more opportunity to refine my teaching skills.  Beth

 

 

Bob, congrats on a great website and good luck! Barbara

 

 

Thank you so much for offering yoga by donation, Bob. I have been wanting to do yoga for a while, and now I can. I look forward to more classes!  Jeff

 

It's such a great thing you are doing for the community - very inspiring.  Kelly

 

The studio is very warm and welcoming and I appreciate the lack of talk and concern about tickets, passes and money.  I admire your commitment and sincere attempt to make Yoga a way of life for all who know its value.  Karen

 

 

I am very exiting about the fact that i started to do yoga, especialy this such a wanderful teacher like you. Thank you very much! I defenly come to next class!  ''sory for mistakes''

 

It was nice to be back in your class again. I felt much better for having participated. I think it is great that everyone will have a place to do yoga no matter what they can, or can’t, afford.  I hope it works financially for you and all the other instructors.  It is a generous and heartful gift you give to the Seacoast community. Suzanne 

 

I appreciate your dedication to the wonders of yoga and your generosity in making it available to all especially in these contracted times.  Sandra

 

It is great to see your new venture so successful. The classes are full and people are enjoying yoga.

Vivian

 

This is brilliant. What I love the most about this is that the "donation" goes both ways...If people really can't afford to pay...today, this week or ever, then the donation goes toward them.  I know you've thought of this of course ...but I'm just honoring it. Thank you so much.  Karen

WOW!!!!!!!!!  Bob, this is SO GREAT!!! I am really excited about (and moved by) this exceptional idea…gift…service. Can’t wait to try a class! And I’ll pass this along to everyone I know!  Kimberly

 

This sounds great. Brian Kest has been running a studio solely on donations for many years…so it works ;-) I will forward to some email addresses of friends that are still in the seacoast area… Lois

 

We really enjoy being there, it has been such a wonderful change of pace for me.  I am already feeling a difference in my body and breathing. I'll see you soon!  Jeff

 

Dad,  This sounds fantastic!  Where did all these teachers come from?  I'm so happy and proud for you!  Lynn

 

I had a wonderful experience on Saturday and I’m actually going to attend tonight’s class at 7PM. I think the organization is an excellent fit for Portsmouth and me! I’m excited to meet all of the instructors and try all of the different classes offered. Not to mention spread the good word to all of my friends. I’ll be seeing you on Saturday. Johanna

 

The class was wonderful  I will be back  Weekends are the time I really can enjoy it  THANK YOU  Brenda

 

Thanks so much for the class and for the email. I will certainly be back!  Cheers  Robin

 

Thank you for the email.  This was my second week and I totally enjoyed the class and Abby as an instructor-she is great.  I love the space and the whole feeling of the studio I am also interested in the class Michelle teaches on Friday evening. Thanks for opening such a wonderful place. Susan

 

What awesome, welcome back to yoga. I had forgotten how wonderful I could feel afterward. Thank you. Anne

 

Thank you and to all your staff for providing this to the community!  It is truly in the spirit of giving back and inspiring others to do what they can in their way.  I appreciate the opportunity to build yoga back into my life and look forward to being able to increase my donations over time to support you in making it accessible to more people. I really enjoyed my class with Deborah yesterday and will be back this week.  I also plan to try classes with a variety of instructors.  And I am spreading the word. Liz

 

I can not express my gratitude enough for you having the wonderful insight to have this type of a yoga studio. I look forward to many more visits at your great place. It was an enjoyable morning with Abby and a class which I plan to be part of my weekly routine.  Thank you again, Stacy

 

 

Thanks Bob.  I really enjoyed class and will come again soon.  Kristen

 

Thank you! The session with Tim was amazing!  I will be back and I will tell others!  K.Lee

 

I just wanted to tell you both how much my mom and I enjoyed last nights class and we will definitely be back. what an incredible idea yoga by donation is! my mom (who is not easily impressed and did yoga only once before years ago and HATED it) loved it! i was so pleased. Heidi was great, she is excellent and we will definitely be back to her class. she was so spectactular about making beginners like my mom and more experienced (me but certainly I claim to be no expert- not even close!) feel comfortable and welcome yet challenged and fufilled. we'll be back soon! thanks so much and we'll definitely see you soon! and spread the word! :)  best, Cait

 

Yoga by Donation is a brilliant idea.  I can't wait to come back.  As my schedule permits, i plan to return as often as possible!  Thanks so much for making this so easy and stress free.  And many thanks to Heidi - she was so calm and permission giving - it made the experience - especially for a first timer - very positive. Carol

 

Thank you for the recognition of attending!  I felt terrific after Heidi's class...even into the next day. I've taken yoga in the past and it felt sooooo good to attend again. I will be back. There was absolutely no disappointment.  Donna

 

I want you to know what a lovely feeling it is that there are people who care and reach out. I am so grateful to have found this yoga place.  Have a great day!  Stacy

 

 

Thank you so much. I enjoyed Candice’s class today and will definitely be back to try other classes & Instructors.  You've have created quite an all encompassing studio! Congratulations.  Namaste, Janet

Thank you for such a great service!  I've already told a few people and am thinking of inviting more.                 Namaste,  Kathryn

 

I enjoyed Deb’s class, though it was definitely a challenge!  I’ll come back as much as I can. After June I don't know when I'll have free time, but I'll certainly try and keep up a practice - it's very good for me.  I'm hoping that I will be able to bring my daughter and the girl I babysit for on Tuesday!  I'm so happy you offer a children's class!  I've been telling everyone I know at Gwen's school (lots of Yoga mom's!) about your studio! 
See you next week, or perhaps at church Sunday!  Kris

 

very cool class, bob.  i can now move several vertebrae that haven't moved in months.  wow.  looking forward to when i am next in the area!  X

 

I just wanted to say thank you for offering this service to the community. I'm sure there are many other people like me out there who, because of financial belt-tightening, have had to exclude yoga from their life. I look forward to attending some classes at Yoga by Donation.  Kevin

 

I just wanted to return your note and thank YOU. You are so fantastic for having this studio open and I seriously cannot live without Kelly!!! My gym canceled her class and I was lost until I realized that you had her instructing and I cannot tell you how much this means to me and my (overall) well-being. I hope to continue with more classes and set up a routine soon! Even if it does mean driving to Portsmouth!!!!  Jessica

 

I just wanted to let you know that I truly enjoyed Beth's class last Monday.  She really made the "first timers" comfortable and is a lovely lady.  I didn't think it was a difficult class, as Beth encouraged all of us to listen to our bodies and go a far as we felt comfortable with.  I intend to continue with her class.  It was great!!!!  Annie

 


Thank you for such a kind welcoming letter. I truly enjoyed my class with Duane, it was just what I needed and I intend to come back as often as my schedule permits. I was very impressed with the studio, it was perfect and I felt very comfortable there. I'd like to thank you for extending the yoga practice to everyone. I strongly believe in its many benefits and it is wonderful to see an organization that meets the demands and abilities of the general public. I practice yoga at home but it makes for such a special and unique experience to join others.

Namaste, Jennalee

 


I was very impressed with Beth's class last Monday and also with Heidi's class on Wed. Both very good - both very different. I really like the space down there. Thank you for this innovative and wonderful idea, and for gathering so many wonderful teachers in one place!  Namaste, Lil

 


I just wanted to let you know how happy I am to have found Yoga by Donation. I attended my second prenatal yoga class with Carol this week, and am so impressed not only with her but the organization in general. It is such a welcoming, serene place, and the quality and variety of classes offered is amazing. The fact that it's all by donation is even more amazing. And the "no-pressure" approach to donating makes me want to give even more, because it is so evident that Yoga by Donation is truly interested in reaching people's needs on a physical and emotional level, without any regard to how much someone can afford to pay. This is so refreshing!  I have told several friends and colleagues about Yoga by Donation, and am thrilled to live close enough to be able to take advantage of it. I sincerely thank you for the tremendous service you and your organization are offering to the community. Namaste, Kelley

 


I was bowled over when I got your email...In the kind of world we live in today, this kind of personal touch is very rare...thank you so very much.  I wanted to tell you that I have not felt this good physically, mentally, and emotionally since I can't remember when.  I have pain every day - sometimes it feels like fibromyalgia...I don't take any prescription drugs except for anti-depressant in the winter...I've done acupuncture, massage, chiropractic but NEVER have i gotten relief like I did today...Will you explain to me why???  I'm planning on coming in to your class again on Sat 7:30 class...I'm thrilled to have found you, and you can be assured I will be telling everyone about your organization. Cee Cee

 


Thank you for the kind email. My daughter’s name is Micaela. I am excited to have found Yoga by Donation and actually posted your logo & a note on my facebook page.  As a parent of young children and a spouse with odd working hours I am not able to get to a class for myself very frequently.  I have sporadically attended Candice’s class in Newington in the past.  Yoga by Donation seems a perfect solution as I am not locked into a set class at a set time and if we have to miss a week due to schedule conflicts I’m not paying for a class my daughter might be missing.  Your studio is lovely, comfortable and inviting.  We’re looking forward to our classes!  Gail

 


Thanks, Bob.  I have been to several sessions with Abby, Duane, Barry, and Beth and the environment and instructors have been wonderful.  I enjoy the variety as well.  I wish you continued success with this very unique approach.  Beth

    

 

I am so so grateful for YBD. I have been spreading the word at the hospital (i am an RN) to many patients I believe would benefit as well as to friends. I love yoga and it has improved my life in many ways. The meditation classes ( i went to both Greg and Avi) were greatly beneficial. This must be creating boundless merit for your kindness and generosity and benefiting all those who attend. With much love and appreciation, Suzan

 

I just wanted to drop you a note to tell you I took Rachel's Laughter Yoga class tonight.  It was a kick!  To tell the truth I was a bit skeptical about my ability to laugh freely over nothing, but as it turned out, it doesn't matter if the laughter is real or not - you still benefit from it.  As Rachel said, "your body doesn't know the difference."  My body felt very stimulated during the class.  And afterwards, even though I spent the evening by myself, I found myself laughing more freely and being more playful, including walking through puddles that I knew were higher than my boots!  It seems that the absurdity of forcing various laughters expanded my willingness to be ridiculous.  I think we could all use a bit of that!  Love, Noreen

 

 

Thank you again for a great first session.  I've been meaning to go to Yoga by Donation for a while, and very glad I was finally able to make the commitment to go that day.  I've never done yoga with circular body motions, and I have to say that it was very effective.  I felt so relaxed, reinvigorated, and reenergized after, even my boyfriend had noticed.
I hope to come again soon. Thank you again for a great welcoming experience. Namaste, Daise

I loved my first experience at Yoga By Donation.  I have back problems and my back hurts most days. Today I cannot feel a thing after going to Noreen's class last night at.  Everyone I have met so far has been extremely helpful and very kind.  I think I have found my yoga studio!  I'm going to come as often as I can!  Natalie


I actually came back on Sunday and had a WONDERFUL class with Duane. I am looking forward to trying more classes and bringing a friend. Thanks again for your email!  Samantha :)


I was able to attend the 9:15 class on Sunday morning, and had a wonderful experience. I look forward to exploring the different classes that you offer. I am so glad that your organization exists, it is a wonderful addition to our great city!  -Emily


Thank you so very much for all your wonderful work.  In today’s crazy (and expensive) world, it is rare to find organizations and people dedicated to their community’s physical and spiritual betterment.  As college students we have so greatly appreciated the opportunity to practice yoga in such a welcoming place.  Best of health and luck to you all!  Sincerely, Amanda, Christine and Eliza


Thank you for following up after my class.  Heidi was extremely warm and patient, it is clear that she is passionate about teaching yoga.  I had a great class, and definitely intend to come back.  I think it is wonderful what your organization is doing.  Look forward to more lessons!  -Kristen


I thoroughly enjoyed the Mysore class.  It was my first experience with Mysore, and I appreciated Avi's expertise and patience.  I got into supta kurmasana and never had before!  If I lived near Portsmouth, I would attend many of your yoga classes.  I too, teach in the Lititz, PA community on Tuesday nights and Thursday mornings by donation.  It is such a great way to do it. So, again thank you...and please thank Avi for being an awesome teacher.  Namaste, Eileen


thank you so much for the follow up, that really means a lot to me. i went online to the website of yoga by donation, and saw so many classes i am interested in. i have spread the word to some fellow city year people, some have shown interest, i will spread this energy more and more. thank you for all that you do, i think it is a brilliant idea "yoga by donation" truly doing the word yoga justice. i hope to see you soon. thanks for everything,  Dylan


 awesome. thank you for this email. the class i took was amazing. i felt so rejuvenated after and was completely worry free. I am going to try to join some mediation classes and I am looking forward to them. I was wondering if you had any suggestions for a certain yoga class for me. I am keeping my mind, body, and spirit strong but I am a beginner as of now. thank you, peace and love, christian


 Thank you Bob. I enjoyed my class with Barry very much and I think I am going to enjoy the Forrest Yoga. I do plan on other classes as well. I want to thank you for opening such a wonderful Yoga place and will definitely spread the word. I am glad I found you! Namaste  Best Regards, Elise


 I really enjoyed my first class at yoga by donation. Everyone was extremely friendly and I love how calm the atmosphere is. I will continue to attend when I am able to.  Daniel


I've been following Yoga by Donation for a little bit now, taking a class here and there, and I'm just so impressed by the community that has grown even in the short while that I've been watching....  Please let me know how I can be a part of the YbD community!  Joe

I had a wonderful experience at yoga last night with Beth. I plan to come back often and I would love to try many of the different styles of yoga YBD offers.  Thank you for offering such a lovely space to practice in.  Kaitlynn

 

I am enjoying the wide range of activities at Yoga by Donation and getting to know some wonderful people who frequent the studio.  Thank you so much!  There is something very special going on there.  Given my financial situation in retirement, it would never be possible for me to try so many new things.  Brenda

Thank you for having such a wonderful resource available.  I am sharing the information with others.  I enjoyed my lesson and will return regularly.  I feel this is something I need, is necessary, and well worth making time for.  Fair Winds, Mary

 

thank you, bob.  the yoga by donation studio is a real treat.  when in portsmouth, i intend to be a frequent visitor.  i live full-time in portland, maine.  do you know of a similarly themed yoga studio in my area?  i googled and came up with nothing.  many thanks, brian

 

I very much enjoyed the class with Joseph Carringer.  And the space is very beautiful and welcoming.  I had no idea such a treasure was so close!  Thank you.  I will certainly come back for classes.  Peg

 

Bob, it was so nice to get your message in my Inbox this morning.  Thank you for following up with me after my first experience with your yoga studio on Saturday.  I had just been reflecting on how attending your class was one of the highlights of my weekend.  The studio was sunny, serene and spacious.  Your instruction was great.  I felt deeply invigorated after the session.  I will be back (and before another 6 months passes!) and I look forward to trying some of the other classes you offer.  Donna

Bob - The class was great, easier to follow than others I've taken in the past. Just right for me right now. Will see you Friday. My goal is to come twice a week, and of course try out all the other classes and workshops!  Pamela

 

Thanks for your kind email.  I shared with all of my co-workers here at Seacoast Hospice how much I enjoyed the class last night and many of them expressed interest in joining me in the future!  I plan to attend as regularly as possible and enjoyed last night very much - it was just what I needed!  Whitney

 

i loved your space. i loved my experience with joseph. i am on a new path and i will definitely be back very soon. thank you for being there.  laura

 

I just got your welcome email and I just want to say how happy I am that you are running a yoga studio based on donations!  I have been looking for local yoga studios and I am excited to start exploring the classes at your studio.  Where a lot of yoga studios are unaffordable and somewhat pretentious in nature, Yoga by Donation is a very welcoming, down to earth environment.  I look forward to seeing you around at the studio!  Sincerely, Hayley



 

Statistics 2009/10

 

                                            1Q09      2Q09      3Q09      4Q09    Jan10     Feb10

 

Attendees/Month               582         659        671         726      1114         1005

 

Classes/Month                     122        138         140         146       185          180   

 

Attendees/Class                      5            5             5             5           6              6

 

$ Donations/Month            2526      2765       2388       2626     3254       2364

 

$ Surplus for Instructors    1578      2295        1164      1879     1254        364

 

$/Class for Instructors          4.32       5.54         2.78       4.29      6.78       2.02

            

 

Attendees is the total number of students in regularly-scheduled classes during the month.   If one student goes to 12 classes in the month, that counts as 12 attendees.

 

Classes is the number of regularly-scheduled classes in which a teacher showed up.

 

Attendees/Class is the average number of students in a class using the above data.

 

$ Donations is the total dollars of donations collected in the quarter or the month.

 

$ Surplus for Instructors is the donations collected over $2000/month, the studio's bare-bones operating budget.

 

$/Class for Instructors is the $ Surplus for Instructors divided by the number of classes offered in the quarter or month.


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