Wow! I think we as teachers can all agree that the biggest problem we face is the lack of commitment. I have racked my brain for ways to solve this problem and in the end I totally agree with Dancedeb. I try not to be the Wicked Witch of the West but I do set standards and I stick by them no matter what. In my first years as a studio owner I lost a few students because of this and it crushed me but I had to tell myself that the students who left were not the committed students that I wanted anyway. And now my reputation and strong work ethic has helped me to build a large group of dancers who truly love what they do and are committed all the way. Occassionally I get the dancer that just can't even meet me half way but they usually don't last long. I realized that I have to stop feeling sorry for the kids and their parents and also stop making exceptions for everyone. There was one particular incident that did it for me. I had a class of only five girls that were getting ready to compete in a week. They had their last class before the competition that night and I was dutifully waiting at the studio. Not one girl showed up for practice!!! I was so mad! Then it finally hit me- I was giving my every waking hour to make this studio successful only to be met with this. I had had enough! I made the decision then to be tough but fair and it has really paid off for me. Teachers: it's time to look out for yourself now. You live, breath and thrive off of your profession and are constantly giving 110% for these dancers and you shouldn't let them walk all over you! I have had to find a balance between being a fun and energetic teacher and being a tough and by the book teacher. I have finally gained that respect from my students and I hope that all of you can do that too. You will not beleive how much more you will love what you do!!