A studio that is competitive, but not strict is a recipe for a competition team that isn't truly connected onstage, very different levels of technical ability (resulting from some students working diligently while others barely show), and consolation prizes at competition. I've been there! There are students that miss class often and because there are no consequences or expectations other students follow suit, while those who do report to class 99% of the time end up resentful and angry. It's detrimental to the whole "team work" thing. Yes, students should enjoy class, and I know that I want my students to feel joyful and motivated in my class, however, aspiring dancers must also realize there's no glory without that commitment, drive, passion, and consistent effort. Glory doesn't have to be in the form of a platinum, it can come in the form of feeling pride that you're connected with your team mates, that you all dance as a "unit", and each bring your personal best to the team. If such things are not required and set by the SO, neither that pride or the platinum score are likely to be achieved.

danzin_gurl wrote:



I know she is worried about losing kids but in my experience, the studios who have the highest enrollment numbers are the ones who do OFFER recreational dance classes, but that also have their competition teams be just that- competitive. The studios that do well at compeitions are the ones that moms bring their children to, and we wont ever do well at compeitions if our most advanced students are only taking 4 hours a week on a good week.

If I am completely wrong, since I have never owned a studio before.. someone please point me in the right direction. If not, I could use some backup that I can use on the issue, because she wants to meet with me sometime over the break to discuss changes/policies and all that jazz.

I have never owned a studio either, but the above statement is true around here as well.