At Silver Peak Jewelry Arts, we are committed to providing a creative, inclusive, and supportive learning environment for all students. Our metalsmithing classes are hands-on and time-based. Successful participation requires a baseline ability to engage safely and appropriately with the tools, materials, and instructional processes used during class.

Class Participation Requirements

To participate in our metalsmithing classes, students should be able to, with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Understand and follow verbal and written instructions

• Work safely with hand tools, materials, and small equipment

• Remain engaged for the duration of the scheduled class

• Complete sequential tasks within a defined class timeframe

• Communicate questions, needs, or safety concerns to the instructor in a timely manner

These requirements are considered essential functions of participation and are in place to support safety, learning outcomes, and the shared studio environment.

Accessibility & Reasonable Accommodations

Silver Peak Jewelry Arts complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and provides reasonable accommodations when requested in advance. Accommodations are evaluated on an individual basis and may include, but are not limited to:

• Modified workstations or seating

• Adjusted pacing or additional instructional support

• Alternative tools or techniques, when feasible

• Scheduled breaks as needed

We encourage students to contact us prior to registration to discuss accommodation needs. Advance notice allows us to determine whether requested accommodations can be reasonably provided without fundamentally altering the nature of the class or compromising safety.

Time-Based Projects

Many classes are structured as “make-and-take” experiences with specific learning objectives and time constraints. Instructors provide instruction and support throughout the class equally to each student; however, completion of projects within the allotted time cannot be guaranteed. Unfinished projects may not be completed outside of scheduled class time.

Private Lessons as an Alternative

For some students, a private lesson may offer a more appropriate and supportive learning experience. Private instruction allows for flexible pacing, one-on-one guidance, extended time for task completion, and customized project goals.

Private lessons may be recommended when a student would benefit from additional time, individualized instruction, or accommodations that are not feasible within a group class setting.

Students are welcome to explore our Private Metalsmithing Lessons page or contact us directly for guidance in selecting the most suitable option.

Safety Considerations

For the safety of all participants, students are expected to:

• Use tools and equipment as demonstrated

• Follow all posted and verbal studio safety guidelines

• Respond promptly to instructor direction related to safety

Silver Peak Jewelry Arts reserves the right to pause or discontinue a student’s participation if, in the instructor’s reasonable judgment, continued participation presents a safety risk to the student or others.

Questions & Advance Planning

We welcome questions regarding class requirements, accommodations, private lesson options, and studio policies prior to registration. Our goal is to ensure every student has a safe, positive, and rewarding experience.

Animals in the Studio

Due to the inherent hazards of a working metalsmithing studio—including loud or sudden noises, high heat, sharp tools, heavy equipment, and the use of potentially toxic chemicals—animals are not permitted in the studio.

This policy is in place to protect the safety of students, staff, and animals. The studio environment may be stressful or unsafe for animals and poses risks that cannot be reasonably mitigated.

Service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are permitted when required. Service animals must remain under the handler’s control at all times and must not interfere with instruction, equipment operation, or studio safety. If a service animal’s presence creates a direct safety risk that cannot be reasonably addressed, alternative accommodations—such as private instruction or modified participation—may be discussed.

Emotional support animals, therapy animals, and pets are not permitted in the studio.

Students with questions or accommodation needs related to service animals are encouraged to contact us prior to registration so we can plan for a safe and successful experience.