3 weeks into class I sent out my official statements:

"Dear Parents of ______________________,

We are very excited this year, as we have such an enthusiastic and dedicated group of students. Working with your child the past few weeks we have been able to better assess which classes are the best fit for their level and learning style. We have adjusted the class schedule to accommodate this years dancers, allowing them the best possible learning experience for their needs.

It is our recommendation that your child attends the following weekly dance classes:.............................................."


Do you adjust your classes according to the students progress within the first month? I know it seems a bit crazy, but I want these kids to excel and where they were developmentally in May is not always where they belong in September.

I just want to see what other teachers practices are and make sure I am not going out on a limb here...

If you're talking about new students, I would get it. But not about students continuing from last year. You surely know there levels by now (not after this first month I mean). And after Summer Break they have changed (because they have grown, got other interests, did a summer intensive or not), but that has never been a reason for me to move them. Parents and students are usually very 'fond' of the place they have in September and only accept a change if it means 'upgrading'. Even when you call your classes Wednesday Jazz 4 PM and Thursday Jazz 5 PM, the kids will immediately find out what class is more advanced or more basic. Be prepared for a lot of whining kids and angry parents (because their kid can't stay with a friend, or because they have to rearrange their carpool scedule.

My advice to you would be to let the old students were they are, and only shift new students. That would make sense to me (as a parent).

My students are given their recommended levels in May for the following season. It is written on their evaluation.

All of our existing pupils know what class they'll be taking in the May. I let new ones who are late starters or those coming in from other schools take two classes each different levels, say Ballet 1 and 2, then I assess them through the first couple of weeks and seeing as this is only a handful of children I talk to the parents myself, that way it's more personal.