Silicon Valley Chess Academy Privacy Policy & Class Guidelines

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Privacy Policy

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1. Introduction & Who We Are

Silicon Valley Chess Academy ("SVC Academy," "we," "us," or "our") is a children's chess education program serving students ages 4–12 across the San Francisco Bay Area, including campuses in Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, and Cupertino.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of our students and their families. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the rights you have as a parent or guardian. Because our program is directed toward children under the age of 13, we comply with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA/CPRA). All personal information is collected from parents or guardians only—never directly from children.
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2. Information We Collect

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We collect information only from parents and guardians during the registration process.
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From Parents & Guardians:
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• Full name and contact details (email address, phone number).
• Child's first and last name.
• Child's age and date of birth.
• Child's chess experience level.
• Payment information (processed securely through our payment provider; we do not store card details).
• Any special notes you choose to share (e.g., allergies, behavioral considerations).
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We Do Not Collect:
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• Information directly from children.
• Social Security numbers or government IDs.
• Precise geolocation data.
• Biometric data.

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3. How We Use Your Information

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We use the information we collect solely to operate and improve our chess program. Specifically, we use it to:

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• Enroll your child in classes and manage attendance.
• Communicate with you regarding class schedules, updates, and program news.
• Send newsletters and program-related announcements.
• Process payments for classes and packages.
• Respond to your questions and support requests.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all students.

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We will never use your information for purposes unrelated to our program without your explicit consent.

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4. Photo & Video Policy

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We take monthly photos at each campus to celebrate student progress and share the joy of chess with our community. These photos may be used on our website, social media, and newsletters.

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Photo & Video Use Requires Your Opt-In

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We will only photograph or use images of your child if you have given us explicit written consent. You will be asked to opt in during registration. You may withdraw consent at any time by emailing kids@sv-chess.com.

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With your consent, photos may be used for:

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• The SVC Academy website (sv-chess.com).
• Official SVC Academy social media accounts (Instagram, Facebook).
• SVC Academy newsletters and email communications.
• Internal program documentation and records.

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Our Commitments:

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• We will never sell or license photos of your child to any third party.
• We will never tag children by their full names on public social media.
• Photos used on social media will typically show groups of students rather than individual identifiable portraits, unless you have specifically consented to individual use.
• You may request the removal of any photo at any time.

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Class Guidelines

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1. Trial Class

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We offer a free trial class to all new students so you and your child can experience SVC Academy before committing to a package.

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• Fill out our registration form at the registration page.
• You will receive an email with class details and confirmation.
• No payment is required for the trial class.

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2. Levels & Pricing

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Students are placed into one of four levels based on their USCF rating and experience. Each level has its own class length and pricing. Packages offer significant savings over drop-in rates.

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3. Package Details

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• Half Winter Season (5-Class Package – 10% off): 5 classes to be used within the season. Ideal for families wanting structured learning with flexibility.
• Winter Season (10-Class Package – 20% off): 10 classes over the full season (approx. 12 weeks). Best value for consistent learners.
• Drop-In Classes: Join any class without a long-term commitment. Please email us in advance to confirm availability: kids@sv-chess.com. No refunds are provided for missed or canceled drop-in classes.
• Seasonal Pass: Includes both regular classes and tournament participation throughout the season. Supports consistent progress and competitive development. Contact us for pricing and availability.

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4. Attendance & Refund Policy

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Attendance:

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Please notify us by email if your child cannot attend a class: kids@sv-chess.com. While make-up classes are not offered, package holders may use their remaining classes flexibly within the season.

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Refund Policy (5 & 10-Class Packages):

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• Full Refund: Available if canceled within the first 2 classes and the student is not satisfied.
• Partial Refund: Available if canceled before 4 attended classes or within one month (whichever comes first). The cost of attended classes will be deducted.
• No Refund: After 4 attended classes or beyond one month of enrollment.

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5. Behavior Expectations

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SVC Academy is a respectful, focused learning environment. We expect all students to:

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• Treat peers, coaches, and the learning space with respect.
• Stay focused and engaged during class.
• Follow instructions from coaches promptly.
• Behave appropriately in online classes (camera on, minimal distractions).

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Three-Strikes Policy: Disruptive behavior will be addressed with a verbal warning (Strike 1), a parent notification (Strike 2), and possible removal from the program (Strike 3). We will always communicate with parents before escalating to removal.

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6. Frequently Asked Questions

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What age groups do you teach?

We teach students ages 4–14, grouped by skill level rather than age.

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Can my child join mid-season?

Yes! Drop-in classes and the flexible 5-class package are great options for joining mid-season.

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Are make-up classes available?

We do not offer make-up classes. However, package holders have the flexibility to use their classes anytime within the season window.

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How are students placed into levels?

Placement is based on USCF rating. New students without a rating are assessed during their free trial class.

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Are online classes available?

Yes! Online classes are available for all levels. Contact us for scheduling details.