Mira Costa High School
Spirit Program Contract
I, as a member of the Mira Costa High School (MCHS) Spirit Program, am dedicated to the total support of
the school and its programs. I acknowledge and accept that as a member of the MCHS Spirit Program, a
highly visible campus organization, I am a representative of Mira Costa High School and the Manhattan
Beach community. I will accept the responsibilities and leadership obligation, which are a significant part
of the MCHS Spirit Program. As a result, I accept that standards for my behavior and performance will
often have to meet standards and guidelines above those expected of the general student body.
General Information
Section I
Purpose
The primary purpose of the MCHS Spirit Program is to support the athletic programs at
Mira Costa High while developing and maintaining school spirit. In addition to our
responsibility to the MCHS Athletics Programs, we also participate in local, regional, and
national competitions, fundraisers, and community events. These events are mandatory.
The Spirit Squad takes pride in its role as ambassadors of MCHS and the Manhattan Beach
community through our activities. We strive to represent ourselves, Mira Costa and
Manhattan Beach to the highest standard through good behavior and sportsmanship at all
times.
Section II
Membership & Eligibility
All athletes must audition for a position on the MCHS Cheer Team each season. Tryouts are
held each Spring for the following School Year. For returners, Tryouts are constituted by a
Material Test and Coaches’ Assessment of previous years’ performance, work habits, and
attitude.
All Spirit Squad members are required to maintain a minimum 2.0 Grade Point Average
(GPA) with no F’s or U’s in citizenship in order to be eligible for participation.
Grades will be checked at each quarter. If a member’s GPA falls below a 2.0 or includes
any F’s or U’s in citizenship, the member will be placed on academic probation for four (4)
weeks. During this time she may not wear her uniform nor participate in any school
activities as a cheerleader. She/He will still be required to attend all practices and games
and know all cheers and routines.
At the end of the probation period, a special progress report will be issued to determine
future eligibility. If a member’s grades have not been elevated to meet the minimum
requirements, the team member will be dismissed from the squad. If the team member is
able to raise their grades to become academically eligible for participation, they will be
reinstated to participate in activities as a cheerleader. If a team member’s grades fall below
the minimum requirements a second time (at any point during the same Academic Year),
they will be dismissed from the squad. Academic probation is your second chance
opportunity. There will not be another.
Section III
Physical Education Class- 6th Period Pep Squad
All Spirit Squad members are required to take Cheer as a 6th period PE Class, during the
school year. If the member is dropped from the squad at any time, for any reason, she may
receive an “F” in Cheer class as a result, in accordance with school grading policy.
Grades for 6th Period Cheer Class are given based on a Point System. Points are awarded for
attendance, following all rules, turning in paperwork and fundraising money on time, etc.
Total possible points are added and the grading scale is then determined. Each Spirit Squad
member’s grade is determined by the number of points they earn. (See student handbook for
grading scale)
The following will affect the student’s grade and may be cause for immediate and just
discipline according to the severity of problem:
a.) not meeting squad participation hours
b.) insufficient knowledge of game and performance material
c.) not wearing a clean uniform free of damage (i.e. holes)
d.) gum chewing at practices or while in uniform
e.) eating on the field or courts during a game or performance
f.) wearing jewelry at practice or while in uniform
g.) not wearing the assigned uniform in its entirety
h.) not wearing proper practice attire
i.) excessive talking during games, performances, and/or practices
j.) arriving late to practices, games, and/or performances
k.) turning in paperwork or fundraising money late
l.) unexcused absences from practices, games, and/or performances
If a team member is dismissed from or quits the squad prior to the end of the grading period,
their final grade will be determined by the total points earned. The grading scale based on
the total points possible for the grading period will not be adjusted or modified.
Section IV
Athletic Department Packet & Physical
All members must have the physical capability required to participate safely as an active
team member. All members must have a Health Exam (time to be valid for the entire year)
and submit proper paperwork to the School Office (not Cheer Office) by the given deadline.
Packets are available for download on the home page of the MCHS School website each
year.
Duties, Responsibilities & Time Commitment
Being a member of the Mira Costa Cheer Team requires a YEARLONG commitment. All
members must maintain flexibility in their individual schedules as events, performances, or
games may be scheduled with minimal notice (i.e. CIF Playoffs, community events,
Fundraising opportunities). The MCHS Spirit Program requires a 13-month commitment as
the season begins in May immediately following tryouts and continues through May
(sometimes June depending on CIF playoffs status) of the following year with the
conclusion of Boys’ Volleyball. Competition and Spring season commitments will be
decided once the squads have been formed and conflicts will be addressed on an individual
bases.
Section I
Practice
Members are required to attend weekly practice from approximately 2:00-4:30pm MondayFriday. Additional or longer practices may be called at times. Jobs, vacations and doctor
appointments are not excused absences. Repeated unexcused absences will affect grade and
may result in disciplinary action. Practices may be cut short/cancelled without advanced
notification.
Section II
Games and Performances
Members are required to attend all assigned games, including CIF Playoffs, as scheduled by
the Coaching Staff. These games are MANDATORY. The Cheer Team will cheer and
perform for Football, Boys’ & Girls’ Basketball (Winter), and lend their support to Girls’ &
Boys’ Volleyball (Fall & Spring) by attending (but not performing) those games. CIF
Playoff Games are on a game-by-game basis and require scheduling flexibility on the part of
all Cheerleaders during these time periods, including during Thanksgiving Break.
Participation in all practices, games (including CIF playoffs) and performances is
mandatory.
Designated uniforms to be worn will be determined and announced at the prior day’s
practice. All team members must wear the designated uniform in its entirety, without
exception. Anyone missing any part of their uniform may not be permitted to participate in
the Team Performance or Activity, but must remain present at the activity for its duration.
(This includes Cheer Shoes, Poms, etc.)
Hair is to be pulled back neatly off the face and shoulders and tied with a matching ribbon at
all times while in Uniform. Hair may be worn half up/half down with coaches’ approval.
Section III
Competitions
The MCHS Cheer Team will participate in local, regional, and national cheerleading
competitions during the school year as determined and scheduled by the coaching staff.
Once the squads have been formed the coaching staff will determine the competition teams.
The competition team will attend approximately 4-6 competitions during the Academic year
beginning in late Fall/early Winter. Competitions take place during the weekends on
Saturdays & Sundays. Most will be local events, however travel and overnight stays may be
involved. Also, additional practices may be held offsite as necessary to prepare for
upcoming performances.
There are costs associated with participating in competition and those costs are the
responsibility of each individual family. There are fundraising opportunities available to
help offset those expenses.
Any decisions related to competition participation will be made by the coaching staff to
serve the best interests of the overall program. Once the competition season has been set and
the competition team confirmed, participation is mandatory. The number of squads and/or
squad members may change at any time if deemed necessary. Participating in competitions
may not in any way interfere with primary purpose of the Cheer Team, which is to serve
Mira Costa High School. Our obligation to the school comes first.
Section IV
Community Service & Events
Throughout the year, attendance at local community events may be required. The MCHS
Spirit Program serves as ambassadors of Manhattan Beach and the community takes great
pride and pleasure in celebrating the talents and accomplishments of our teams. It is our
pleasure to enhance local events with our participation and performances.
Fundraising: All team members are required to participate in fundraising activities
throughout the year to help offset the general program expenses which include
transportation, equipment, coaches’ salaries, etc. Event participation varies based on the type
and needs of each event. We provide a calendar of dates as soon as possible to aid families
in their planning. Any and all money collected for fundraising events must be turned in ontime. Failure to do so will affect the Pom Points received for the activity.
Examples: MB Hometown Fair, Car Wash, Rummage Sale, Concession Sales, etc.
We all need to put our time and effort into raising money to support the program for the
benefit of all the Cheerleaders. All members, including parents, are expected to participate.
Without successful fundraising and donations, we will NOT be able to provide this
program.
Athlete Expectations & Responsibilities
Section I
Attendance
Attendance is mandatory at any cheerleading game, performances and event (including
fundraisers and competition). All athletes are expected to arrive on time to all practices,
meetings, games, fundraisers, pep rallies, and events. Repeated failure to attend practices
will affect grade and may result in disciplinary action. Absences due to jobs, vacations,
detentions, personal matters, and/or regular medical appointments are not excused.
Any athlete who misses practices the day before a game or schedule performance may be
removed from the routine and not permitted to perform. Any athlete who misses practices
prior to a competition may be removed from the routine at the coaches’ discretion. The
decision to place that individual back into any choreography is at the coaches’ discretion
based on the best interest of the team performance.
Section II
Conduct & Professionalism









Section III
Use of profanity during practice, performance, or event is prohibited, especially
when in Uniform. Your representation of the MCHS Spirit Squad should always be
respected in high regard.
Smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages, and/or use of illegal drugs AT ANY TIME
is cause for immediate dismissal from the MCHS Spirit Program.
Unnecessary socializing and/or talking with fans, friends, or other Cheerleaders
during games, practices, or performances is prohibited.
Conduct unbecoming of a Cheer Team member (in or out of uniform) may result in
disciplinary action at the coaching staff’s discretion.
If for any reason the coaching staff feels that a team member is not upholding the
Code of Conduct & Professionalism required of a team member, they reserved the
right to suspend that team member pending consultation with their parents.
Members will abide by all rules and regulations at all times. Members will also
respect all decisions and actions of the coaching staff as communicated directly or
via the Team Captains (whether they are agreed or not). Questions or concerns may
be addressed directly to the coaching staff appropriately and privately.
Any type or form of disrespectful behavior towards Team Captains, other squad
members, competitors, coaches, or other adult supervisors is unacceptable. This
includes “back-talking” and/or sarcastic comments and behaviors. Criticizing other
squad members will not be tolerated. There is no room for negative attitudes in the
MCHS Spirit Program. Attitude problems will be dealt with appropriately and
immediately.
Should a squad member choose to host or participate in any social networking sites,
any content and behavior must be in accordance with the Spirit Squad guidelines.
This includes postings, photographs (whether posted by you or others), and video.
Participation in any inappropriate behavior (including bullying) may result in
disciplinary action by the coaching staff and School Administration.
Stunting and/or Tumbling is not allowed at any time unless a coach or qualified adult
appointed by the coaching staff is present. Unsafe horseplay (especially during
stunting or tumbling activities) at any time is prohibited.
Skill Development & Training (Skill Assessment, Tumbling)
As the MCHS Spirit Program involves many physical elements, all team members are
required to stay in good physical condition for safe participation throughout the year. Each
athlete is required to participate in a training program that will include Flexibility, Stunting,
Tumbling, and Dance training. Coaches will periodically assess the skill levels of all
athletes and maintain safe and proper progressive training to advance those skills.
All athletes will be required to participate in supplemental training at least once a week as
part of their regular team practice commitment. Supplemental training may take place at
MCHS during regular practice hours and offsite as a regularly scheduled team class as
deemed necessary by the coaching staff.
All coaches and team members are required to follow the safety guidelines of the American
Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators (AACCA) and the National
Federation of High Schools.
Section IV
Disciplinary Action
Examples of disciplinary actions that may be taken for misconduct or rule violations are as
follows (in no particular order):
a.) Verbal warning
b.) Written notice sent home
c.) Game/Performance Benching
d.) Parent Conference
e.) Suspension
f.) Dismissal (removal from the team)
Uniforms & Appearance
Section I
Uniform Care & Use
All Team members must be dressed alike during games, performances, competitions and
other squad events. The assigned “What To Wear” for School Days, Practices and events
will be given out in advance and must be followed by all in order to participate. The Team
Captains and/or Coaching Staff will determine the attire to be worn.
Uniforms must be maintained and worn in a clean, neat, and orderly fashion at all times.
Due to their constant wear and tear, shoes must be clean often. Replacement items are the
responsibility of each team member as necessary due to damage, staining, or substantial
wear and tear.
Uniforms, Sweats, and Practice Clothing are to be worn by current members of the Spirit
Program only. Items may only be worn in conjunction with participation in a Spirit Program
Activity, unless prior approval is obtained from the coach. Uniforms may also only be worn
in their entirety, including Hair and Shoes. For example, no Game Uniform and UGG
Boots/Flip Flops or Warm Up Jacket with School Clothing. The Cheer Uniforms are just
that, Uniforms, not opportunities for individual fashion statements. Please respect that.
Anyone missing any part of their uniform may not be permitted to participate in the Team
Performance or Activity, but must remain present at the activity for its duration. (This
includes Cheer Shoes, Poms, etc.)
Section II
Jewelry, Nail, and Hair Care
All jewelry must be REMOVED prior to the start of practice and while in uniform. This
includes, but is not limited to, all earrings, bracelets, necklaces, body piercings, and rings.
Nails should be neatly manicured and at a short length, to avoid accidental injury to another
squad member or themselves. This includes acrylic and similar applications. All nails
should be free of ANY colored nail polish or design (with the exception of a nude or white
French tip nail). When in doubt, ask a coach.
Hair is to be pulled back neatly off the face and shoulders and tied with a matching ribbon at
all times while in uniform. Hair may be worn half up/half down with coaches’ approval.
Hair should be neatly styled at all times. No messy buns, bed hair, loose ponytails, or loose
braids. Squad members are also prohibited from having extreme hair colors whether dyed or
colored extensions, in their hair. When in doubt, ask a coach. Such styles are a distraction
from the uniformity of the team and the overall performance.
Section III
Practice Attire
Proper attire (T-shirt, Athletic Tank, shorts or sweats, socks, and cheer shoes) must be worn
to all practices. All clothing, including Sweatshirts, should be plain colored and free of
logos. Exception: MCHS School/Team, Cheer/Dance Companies.
Spaghetti strap tops, jeans, sandals, bare feet, excessively baggy or loose fitting clothing
items are not permitted. Hair must be pulled up and back completely off the face securely
fastened with ponytail holders. Bangs and loose hair need to be secured with clips and/or
bobby pins. No jewelry is to be worn to practices, performances, or competitions (including
all body piercing). Nails should be kept clipped to the length of the finger. These guidelines
have been put into place for the safety of our athletes and coaching staff and will be
enforced.
The following items may not be worn to practice:
Game Day Jersey
Game Uniforms
Green Skort
Game Warm Up Suit
Performance, Practice and Transportation Protocol
Section I
Practices
All members are expected to arrive on-time, dressed properly, ready to fully participate in
all practice activities. Any illnesses, injuries, or limitations to full participation in practice
activities must be accompanied by a written note from a parent or doctor. Limitations
lasting three (3) or more days must be accompanied by a doctor’s note. If at any time an
athlete’s activities are restricted by their doctor’s orders, a clearance note from the doctor is
required before the athlete will be permitted to resume fully participation. In the interim,
they must continue to attend practice as usual following all rules, including dressing out and
being present for the duration practice.
MCHS Spirit Squad members are personally responsible for knowing the dates, times,
required attire, and material for all events. If a team member misses practice for any reason,
they are solely responsible for finding out what information they missed and material they
need to learn. EACH CHEERLEADER NEEDS TO GET UP-TO-DATE
INFORMATION WHEN THEY ARE ABSENT BEFORE THEY RETURN TO
PRACTICE.
Each team member is required to have their Cheer Binder available at ALL practices and
games in their Bag. All Handouts, Calendars, Game Plans, etc are to be kept up-to-date in
this binder. Periodic Binder Checks will be conducted and will be counted in your overall
Pom Point total.
Section II
Transportation
All members are required to ride the school transportation (when provided) to games and
events. Any alternative modes of transportation to and from an event must be pre-approved
by the coaching staff with a signed note from the team member’s parent granting their
permission and waiving liability.
Members will be personally responsible for securing transportation to events when there is
no school transportation provided. DISTRICT POLICY STATES THAT STUDENTS ARE
NOT ALLOWED UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES TO DRIVE OTHER STUDENTS.
Please keep this in mind when making transportation arrangements.