Young Artist Handbook
Keys to Success within our Youth Programming
Please read this handbook in its entirety. Registration in our youth programs requires that a parent/guardian sign a written version of this, acknowledging their understanding and agreement to the terms below. 2023/2024 Season Pricing can be found below.
Registration
Registration Fees are $50 for Young Artists ages 7 and older regardless of what programs they participate in. The fee is $35 for youth registering age 6 and under. This is fee is required in order to begin courses. It is non-refundable, non-transferable and non-redeemable.
Tuition Payments
Tuition will not be pro-rated, refunded or credited for snow days and/or
other acts of nature, missed classes,
and/or unforeseen
circumstances.
The rate is consistent regardless of the number of weeks in a month. Preferred forms of payment include Dance Studio-Pro Parent Portal/Invoice, Cash or Card. Tuition will not be accepted via Cash App, Venmo or Paypal.
WE DO NOT ACCEPT CHECKS OF ANY KIND FOR ANY REASON.
On the 4th of the month, a $20 late fee is added to past due tuition balances. If the balance remains unsatisfied, there will be another $10 late fee added on the 8th. If the tuition, including all late fees, continues to be completely satisfied after the 10th of the month, the young artist will not be able to attend classes until the balance is paid in full. Tuition payments are non-refundable, non-redeemable and non-transferable.
S2MS reserves the right to utilize funds dedicated to other areas for tuition payment should the balance become excessive.
Program Placement
S2MS Faculty reserves the right to place young artists in the appropriate program we feel is sufficient for their growth.
The Artist In the Making Program is an extremely, exclusive program curated for a specific sort of artist and family students per year. These students are evaluated over the course of the previous year and invited to audition based off of a number of characteristics. After auditioning, a select few are invited to the interview process where their family and the director(s) discuss their future. This program is designed for the seriously, dedicated young artist AND family that is looking to consider Dance as a career option.
Potential Members of the Young Dance Artist Development & Eminent Artist Programs must also audition in order to be considered. These levels of training also require an amount of dedication from both the young artist and family. Certain technical skills will be taken into consideration when selecting members of these multi-award-winning companies. Artists along with their families participate in an enrollment appointment when registering to ensure that their dance goals are aligned with the vision of these programs.
The Emerging Artist Program is great for families who are looking for great training with less commitment. Our staff and faculty will properly place your artist with all of these factors in mind.
Attendance
Consistency is Key!!! A major contributing factor to the success of our young artists is their level of commitment to the craft. In order for the artists to grow efficiently and in an expedited fashion they need to attend all of their scheduled classes. We understand that life happens. However, it is our job to give our artists the necessary tools to be successful in dance and in life. We can only do this when they are consistently present.
Occasionally, Competitive and Pre-Professional Program Members require additional time for supplementary training and performance opportunities. Young Artists who desire to participate in these programs should be aware of and prepared for the added commitment.
Artist Expectations
At S2MS, we teach our young artists many valuable traits that will guide them to becoming not only amazing dance artists but genuinely good people. It begins with instilling a sense of responsibility and accountability in them. Below are the expectations we have for our young artists.
- Please communicate absences and tardiness in writing in advance. Attendance is mandatory unless excused by the director.
- Proper Dance Attire and Shoes must be worn to all classes. Artists may not be allowed to participate without it.
Parent Participation
We are a family!!! That means that we are all essential parts to the success of the youth programs. Everyone's assistance is needed to help create the best experiences for all involved. Below are some ways one can contribute:
- Checking out the monthly studio wish list, which will be located in the BAND/Parent Portal and purchasing or contributing to the purchase of items listed.
- Helping out at events whether backstage, setting up in front, running around or in any way communicated by S2MS Staff & The PEAC Initiative (Our Parent Execution & Advisory Committee)
- Donations of any kind for various things
- Costume/Prop Assistance for Competitions & Performances
and much more!!!
Every family has a different level of flexibility when it comes to being able to participate or assist. However, it is imperative that everyone contributes. We need families to be committed to helping as much as possible.
Fundraising Responsibilities
The events below assist with generating revenue for numerous aspects of the studio. From programming and equipment needs to upkeep and other young artist related expenses, these fundraisers help S2MS make things happen. Families can choose to participate in each fundraiser or simply pay the minimum Below are the some of the minimum artist requirements for each fundraising opportunity:
* = Optional for Emerging Artists Program Members
EPITOME:
Metro-Detroit's Winter Dance Showcase
(Raises funds to assist with commissioning Celebrity Choreographers for residencies and other opportunities.)
(Every Artist Must sell or purchase at least 5 General Admission Tickets)
S.L.A.Y (Save Local Arts for Youth):
Metro-Detroit's Eclectic Dance Showcase
(Raises funds to create scholarships for talented, underprivileged youth)
(Every Artist Must sell or purchase at least 5 General Admission Tickets)
Poppin' Popcorn Fundraiser (2)
(Assists with Production Costs for Our Annual Showcases)
(Every Performing/Competing Artist Must sell at least $150 worth of products or pay $100)
Pistons Game Performance *
(Assists with a variety of studio necessities)
(Every Artist Must sell or purchase at least 2 of the cheapest tickets)
2022/2023 Youth Programming Pricing
Emerging Artists Program
Recreational Level
Preschool/Kindergarten Age (3 - 6)
1 Courses = $35
2 Courses = $60
3 Courses = $90
4+ Courses = $115
Elementary Age (7 - 10)
1 Courses = $35
2 Courses = $60
3 Courses = $90
4+ Courses = $115
Middle/High School Age (11+)
1 Courses = $40
2 Courses = $70
3 Courses = $100
4+ Courses = $125
Artist In the Making Program
Pre-Professional Level
Must be at least 12 years old to be considered for this career-driven program.
$250
Young Dance Artist Development Program
Competitive Level
Preschool/Kindergarten Age (4 - 6)
"Little Artists"
$125
Elementary Age (7 - 10)
"Mini Artists"
$125
Middle/High School Age (11+)
"Movement Artistry Company"
$150
Eminent Artist Program
Elite Competitive Level
Must be at least 5 years old to be considered for this intermediate/advanced level competitive program.
$175 (Little & Mini Artists)
$200 (Movement Artistry Company)