Wow Not a teacher here again but I had to comment about competition.
My daughter is 11 and has been competing in Irish dance for 2 yrs. Her competition class was by invitation only. She loves it and I have no problems getting her to class. When she was invited in she made the choice and committed to extra classes, competitions ect. We never miss class and most of the girls in her class never miss class (her class has about 10 girls). My daughter has missed birthday parties, family parties play dates because of class and competition. I blame the parents when they don't show up. Well, if the dancer committed to it it's up to the parents to make sure they are committed or pull them out. They are waisting their money anyways. I ask my daughter every year do you want to continue in competition or just for fun. My daughter takes 4 classes a week (competition, tecnique, jazz and ballet). Also she is required to practice at home at least an hour a day which she does faithfully. Yes it's a big committment but if you commit then go to clas and practice!