Cotillions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are cotillion programs just about dance?
A: Not at Carolina Junior Cotillions. While our ballroom and social dance programs are a fundamental part of what we do, we also place special emphasis on improving social skills and dining skills. Ultimately, our goal is to help all of our students gain an appreciation for the importance of social graces, achieve confidence in their ability to thrive in social situations and learn to optimize their individual potential.
Q: What makes Carolina Junior Cotillions different?
A: We believe we’re different from other cotillion organizations in three important respects: (1) We remain committed to serving a limited number of markets and serving them well; (2) We leverage exclusive, time-tested instruction methods developed by our organization’s founder, Ann B. Cherry; and, perhaps most important, (3) We place a special emphasis on creating a fun, dynamic environment for learning.
Q: What markets does your organization serve?
A: Though our classes are held in Goldsboro, we serve students in Wayne, Wilson, Johnston, Sampson, Duplin, Lenoir, and Greene counties.
Q: When students successfully complete your programs, what do they learn?
A: Through our seven-part cotillion program, participants learn how to:
- Exhibit respect for themselves and others
- Observe small courtesies
- Make a good first impression
- Behave properly in social settings
- Make others feel at ease
- Feel comfortable in a formal atmosphere
Q: Who can attend Carolina Junior Cotillion programs?
A: Through an extensive network cultivated throughout eastern North Carolina during a three-decade period, we recruit fifth-, sixth-, seventh-, and eight- graders of both genders to participate in our programs. Each year, we also offer a limited number of scholarships for students who are financially disadvantaged.
Q: Once my child has been invited to participate, how do I complete program registration?
A: Registration procedures will be included in your invitation. A password will be provided in your invitation to access the online registration form. We highly recommend that you send in your registration early, since class sizes are limited and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis and a gender balance. Parents are encouraged to register their child with a partner of the opposite gender to ensure enrollment and to avoid placement on the Waiting List.
Q: How much do Carolina Junior Cotillion programs cost?
A: Our program fees for the 2023-2024 season are $250 if paid in full on or before September 22 or $275 if paid after September 22. For online registration, full payment is required at the time of registration and a $5 processing fee will be incurred. If paying by mail, you may submit a $125 deposit in advance, with the remainder ($125) due by September 22 (please be sure to include your child’s name and grade on the bottom of your check). We also offer a $50 discount for two or more students enrolling from the same family.
Q: What’s your refund policy?
A: Refunds are subject to a $40 processing fee, and in fairness to students who are placed on the wait list, will not be issued after September 15 unless: (1) you are assigned to the wait list because of a gender imbalance; or (2) you have extraordinary circumstances arise in your family (as would be the case if your family were to move, be transferred, or if a family member had a serious illness). Refunds are not issued for cancelled events. Events are rescheduled according to club availability.
Q: How will I be notified if/when my child is enrolled?
A: A Student Enrollment Notification will be emailed to parents as a gender balance is achieved. Any outstanding balance will be indicated.
Q: What’s your cotillion wait-list policy?
A: We only add students to a wait list when absolutely necessary to achieve the right gender balance. Our goal is to enroll the same number of ladies and gentleman to participate in order for everyone to have a dance partner. You can read more about our wait-list policies here.
Q: Do your programs have a dress code?
A: Yes, but it varies by event (nice casual, semi-formal, or casual dances). See additional information on our dress code here.
Q: Can I attend my child’s programs or bring guests?
A: Parents may observe from designated areas, but we can not accommodate student guests.
Q: Can I take pictures during a program?
A: We retain a professional photographer twice during each program year to capture high-quality images of the students participating in our programs. Out of respect for our instructors and students, no videography is permitted during a Cotillion event. (Mobile phone use is also prohibited during events.)
Q: What happens in cases of inclement weather?
A: Should hazardous conditions require the cancellation of class, parents will be notified via email by 2:00 p.m. Announcements will also be posted on our website and Instagram page.
Q: Can I join a carpool with other parents?
A: Sure, just please be sure to arrive 10 minutes before your session to allow students adequate time to prepare for the program.
Q: How can I stay current with what’s happening at Carolina Junior Cotillions?
A: Please keep an eye on our website and follow us on Instagram!
