Transitionary Implementation Phase of the Program Policy (TIPPP)

✅ The Proposal Has Passed

What This Means for You, Your Club, and the Future of Square Dancing

Effective Immediately • Transition Phase Underway • Full Implementation by September 1, 2026

Page last updated: May 29, 2025

In a vote of 336 to 112, CALLERLAB members have officially approved a revised Program Policy Statement as of May 29, 2025. This resolution introduces a simplified Program structure, including a newly defined entry-level program and a streamlined path forward for modern square dancing.

The most significant change in Draft E is:

Dance Program size is determined by the committees, with the following exceptions:

a. Mainstream – Must be less than or equal to 50 calls
b. Plus – Must be 50 calls or greater

We’ve created this public webpage to keep you informed with real-time updates, draft documents, FAQs, and a clear roadmap. Check back often and watch for email updates as we move through the next TIPPP.

Proposal Press Release
New Program Policy Statement (Rev E)

The Proposal Has Passed

With a 92% approval rating at Convention and a 75% approval rating by the full membership, CALLERLAB has passed a new Program Policy Statement on May 29, 2025. This new policy simplifies our Program structure and sets a clearer path for how dancers and clubs can enter and progress in modern square dancing.

So What Does This Mean?

  • The policy is now official CALLERLAB policy.
  • We are entering the next TIPPP — a 14-month phase-in period to prepare for full implementation.
  • Final rollout of the new Program structure is planned for September 1, 2026.

What Is TIPPP?

TIPPP = Transitionary Implementation Phase of the Program Policy.

It’s our work-in-progress phase where we:

  • Finalize a new entry-level 50-call list and subsequent 50-call list.  
  • Develop a recommended teaching order
  • Create a teaching plan/playbook and guidance materials
  • Update existing documents with expiration dates and revision timelines
  • Engage callers, clubs, and dancers to prepare for implementation

What’s the Timeline?

*Tentative dates; subject to change

Phase When? Complete?
Resolution Approved May 28, 2025 ✓
TIPPP Begins Now! In progress
Create “New” Mainstream Committee June 2025 ✓
Develop “New” Mainstream Committee Brief June 2025 ✓
“New” Mainstream Committee finalize maximum 50-call list June 2025 – September 2025 In progress
“New” Mainstream Committee develop Teaching Order and Playbook September 2025 – March 2026
Plus Committee finalize minimum 50-call list September 2025 – March 2026
Plus develop Teaching Order and Playbook March 2026 – September 2026
Worldwide Implementation September 1, 2026

What’s Happening Now?

  • The Executive Committee has formed a new Mainstream Committee – with Members from both the Basic and Mainstream Committee and Social Square Dance Committee.  Members can request to join the committee here: https://callerlab.org/committees/joincommittees/.
  • Members from the New Mainstream, Plus, Definitions, and Choreographic Applications Committees are collaborating.
  • Currently developing:
    • New entry-level 50-call Mainstream list
    • Subsequent 50-call Plus list
    • Teaching Order
    • Playbook and caller resources
  • Current documents will be labeled with expiration dates and updated as progress is made.

Stay Connected

  • CALLERLAB Members will receive email news blasts throughout the process.
  • Non-Members may sign up to receive email updates here: callerlab.org/2025subscriber/.
  • Legacy documents will note expiration dates as new documents become available.
  • New documents will be posted to this page as available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the proposal active now?
A: Yes. It is official policy, with implementation taking place over 14 months.

Q: Do I need to change how I teach right away?
A: No. You can continue with your current materials while TIPPP develops new resources.

Q: Will CALLERLAB provide new teaching materials?
A: Yes. A full set of teaching tools will be available well ahead of the September 2026 launch.

Q: How can I give feedback or get involved?
A: Opportunities will be shared through email, and CALLERLAB Members are invited to share feedback via the committee discussions.

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 Catching Up?

If you’re just hearing about this now, no problem. Here’s all the background information: