John Depalma ? Dance Consultant Organizer of the Capital Dancesport Championships

Choosing the right dance studio for you is an individual choice. Different schools cater to different dancing needs. Many studios gear their business to the social side of dancing, others more towards the competitive dancer. And some cater to both. Here are some suggested questions to ask when gathering information.

1.What type of lessons do you offer?
You need to find out if the lesson structure is the type you're looking for. Are they?
Private only, group only or a combination of both. What do they recommend for
Beginners?

2.What is the Teaching Schedule?
Very important, especially if you're an ultra busy person. How flexible is the schedule.
Can you create a standing appointment, or do you book as you go? What is the Group
Class structure, and what is the makeup policy should you miss a class. And what is the
Studio cancellation policy in the event you need to cancel your lesson.

3. How long has the studio been in business?
Usually, studio's that have been in existence for a time display their history in various
ways. Look for plaques, trophies, photographs of parties and competitions, teaching certificates, etc.
If the studio is new, ask about the background of the owner, and where they previously owned or taught.

4. Are the instructors certified?
Always make sure that the studio you are going to do business with has qualified instructors. Qualified teachers are those who hold teaching certificates from Member Organizations of the National Dance Council of America (NDCA). You can find further information on their website. Make sure that your teacher is qualified if you are opting for an independent teacher who's renting floor space. Ask what organization they qualified with, and how long they have been teaching. Check out the organization with the NDCA, and find out if the independent teacher has taken and passed their exams.

5. Pay attention to the Questions the Interviewer asks YOU
When inquiring about lessons, pay attention to the questions you are asked by the person you are talking to. A studio that gives good customer service should try to qualify what your needs are before recommending how you should proceed.

6. Don't be afraid of Contracts!
Some studios only accept enrollments by written agreement. Franchised studios must use enrollment forms as required by the Federal Trade Commission. Remember, read your contract carefully and ask questions if there are anything you don't understand. Contracts are there for YOUR protection. They should spell out the studio's policies, refund, expiration and cancellation requirements, and give directions on who to contact in the event of a dispute. Sometimes consumers are afraid of contracts, thinking they will be committed to something unbreakable. Wherever you choose to do business, make sure you have something in writing that explains your rights to cancellation and refund, and recourse for unsatisfactory lessons. A solid school will always put their policies forward. It's a vote of confidence on their part that they stand behind their service.

by John DePalma