In addition to the usual courtesies connected with dancing, instruction is also given in areas such as the five responsibilities of treating others with honor, dignity and respect; character traits that make us happy, well mannered people; answering an invitation by telephone; greeting and shaking hands; proper seating, when to rise, introducing oneself, receiving line, table manners, and first impressions. Handout booklets with challenges assignments are given to each student to reinforce what is taught in class.
   
 
The Summer Icebreaker, held in August, gives students a firsthand look at the etiquette of participating in, and being a spectator of, golf, tennis and swimming. Also included at this sports etiquette session, students enjoy meeting new friends, evening swimming, a cookout, and line dancing.
 
 
   
 
The Back to School Dance in September, Autumn Dance in October, and Snow Dance in January are themed classes with hands-on etiquette and dance training.
 
 
 
   
 
The Thanksgiving Instructional Three-Course Dinner
begins with a tutorial dinner focusing on table etiquette.
Proper use of napkins, utensils, finger bowls, proper silverware positions and more is covered. Dance
instruction follows the dinner.
 
 
   
 
Parents are invited to join us for the last twenty minutes of the Snow Dance in January to learn the basic Waltz. At the King and Queen of Hearts Ball in February, parents are invited to attend the last hour to observe and dance with their children.
   
 
The King and Queen of Hearts Valentine Ball and Holiday Dance allows students a more formal environment to practice the etiquette and dance skills they have learned and to enjoy self assurance that comes from knowing the proper manners to use. The evening includes special prizes, contests, party favors, boutonnieres and nosegays.
 
 
   
 
The 50's Spring Fling Party includes some etiquette instruction but has more of a party atmosphere. This is a fun dance to end the Cotillion Season. "Fifties" style dances are taught and the games and prizes will reflect this era. Pictures are taken and prizes are given for the 50's style dress contest.
 
 
 
   
   
 

When we were in Cotillion, we never thought we would really be using some of the things we learned there. We are now away at boarding school and moving into our senior year. It isn't until you live away from home and are exposed to how other kids behave in different situations that you get a real appreciation for the importance of manners and etiquette.

For example, when we are in the dinning hall there is a big difference in how people eat. A lot of kids have no clue how to behave at a formal dinner and are embarrassed by the ones that do have good table manners. It has a big impact on how others view you and treat you. I even had one of the kids in my dorm ask me about table manners because he was being kidded about being a slob.

We also have formal dances and other social activities that require an understanding of appropriate behavior in a lot of different situations. Again there is a big difference in how comfortable and confident the kids are who have been taught how to act in formal situations and those that haven't. It also makes a big difference in how others respond to them.

The bottom line is that your classes have made a huge difference in how comfortable and confident we are in social situations now that we are living away from home. Knowing how to act is a big differentiator that makes a big difference in the friends we attract and the respect you get. I hop the others who have taken your class are benefiting from the training as much as we are.

Thank You,

Tom and Alex Moore
Hargrave Military Academy