FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we watch class?

Parents are encouraged to watch their children's progress. Observation windows are provided in our Court Street studio. Our RVSTC location has 2 doors that we try to leave open (we close them occasionally when siblings - or parents - are too loud and are disrupting the class).

Can I sit in on my child's class?

We feel strongly that students do much better in their dance classes when parents are not in the room. When parents are in the studio young children tend to be more focused on Mom & Dad than on their instructor and often spend a lot of time seeking their parents approval rather than paying attention to their instructor. The viewing window helps because the children can see their parent(s) and know that they are there, but there is a definite separation of the spaces. The children do much better. We encourage parents of young children to stay in the building so that if they are needed they are close by. As the dancer gets older it becomes more important to them that the studio remain a respected space where they are allowed personal ownership of the process of training. We are sensitive to the fact that parents cherish the time they get to watch their children grow - which is the reason we have provided a viewing window and our classes are always open for observation.

How are you different from other schools?

As for other schools in the Valley, we can't comment on the teachers or procedures, but we have several distinct differences from many dance schools we have seen throughout the West Coast. Our floor is one of our major differences - our professional floating dance floor offers additional cushioning and support to help prevent injuries and fatigue. Although we have a part-time receptionist, our school is managed by its owners and principal teachers. This ensures that you will get clear and educated answers to most of your questions! If a knowledgeable staff member is not immediately available we strive to be very prompt when addressing your questions and concerns. We also like to keep our class sizes small.

When does my daughter get to go on pointe?

Every little girl who has ever walked into a dance studio has dreamed of someday dancing on pointe. The pointe shoe itself has become a kind of universal icon that represents ballet's feminine and ethereal side. But unlike these seemingly effortless ballerinas who look as if they are levitating above the floor, the work these girls put their feet through is anything but effortless. Improper training combined with the wearing of pointe shoes can lead to lifelong damage. Nothing is more important to the dancer's experience as they graduate from ballet slippers to pointe shoes than excellent early training, focused on rotation and placement. While some girls, because of the shape of their feet, have an easier time of it, most don't. So the less bad habits they have to overcome the quicker they will progress on pointe. In the end the decision to start pointe training must be made by a qualified teacher who is familiar with the student. Not only is proper training essential to a young dancer's well being and safety but also the choice of shoe. There are literally hundreds of types and brands to choose from and new ones seem to appear every day. Sometimes picking the best shoe can be a trial and error process that takes a great deal of time and communication between the teacher and the student. We do not take a casual approach to pointe work and feel it is definitely for the more serious and committed young dancer.

When and why are private lessons valuable?

The private lesson's benefits are twofold: First, it allows a student who is struggling somewhat to get some one on one attention that can help them through a rough patch in their training. Secondly, private lessons can be of great benefit to a dancer who is being moved up a level. While being moved up is a great accomplishment it can also be very intimidating to go into a new class, with new people and maybe even a new teacher - often doing material that the student has never had before. The private allows a student to work on the new material with a new teacher in a non-judgmental, stress-free environment. This way when the dancer takes their first class in their new level they have fewer "surprises". This leads to better learning and quicker progress.

How does my child progress through the levels?

Most schools use one of two methods - advancement either by age or by ability. While progressing students simply by age is easier on the school and staff alike, we don't always feel that this method is in the best interest of the student. People, especially children, are unique and any school that takes this into account should undoubtedly advance their students based primarily on individual ability. The stronger the dancer's fundamentals are the further they will go with their dancing. Sometimes it will appear to the parent and/or student that they are "stuck" in a level or not moving fast enough or being left behind. This is not the case. In many instances the one who progresses too quickly losses momentum, while the other who is taking things slower tends to build momentum and has the maturity to cope better with their growth they accelerate.

How can I help my child at home?

One of the best ways parents can help their children is to expose them to performances, art galleries, buy ballet books and videos. This will open a whole new world not only for your child but for yourself as well. Also, always explain to your child to be as open as possible to corrections when taking class. They should have a clear understanding of their corrections so they can apply them. Applying corrections consistently is one of the quickest ways to improve. We do NOT encourage parents "coaching" their students at home. Students always progress quickly and correctly when working in the classroom with a proven professional. Stretching at home is always encouraged!

What if I have questions or concerns?

Please keep in mind that the faculty/instructors always have the best interests of the students in mind. Our main goal is to see our students learn and progress. If you have any questions or concerns about your child's progress or class schedule, please contact your child's instructor or the school directors at any time. Be aware, however, that a teacher who has just finished teaching and is preparing for their next class may not be able to give you the quality time or answers you need. In this case a phone call or email might be your best bet!

Where are you located?

We have two very convenient Medford locations to serve you! The main studio is located just off the freeway and 2 blocks from the RV Mall at 1221 Court Street. Our satellite location off of Barnett Road within the Rogue Valley Swim and Tennis Club, at 709 N. Phoenix Road. Classes may be taken at one or both locations.