National League of Junior Cotillions
Central Austin Chapter
Welcome
Welcome to the National League of Junior Cotillions
Central Austin Chapter
We’ve proudly provided Cotillion classes for middle school students in Austin and the surrounding areas for over 30 years. As leaders in our community, we’re dedicated to delivering an exceptional Cotillion experience. Discover the NLJC difference!
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BUILDING CONFIDENCE, CHARACTER & SOCIAL SKILLS
Our program helps middle school students develop essential life skills, etiquette, and social dance abilities in a fun, supportive environment. We proudly offer classes for 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students in Austin, Texas, and the surrounding areas. Today, etiquette is about more than formal rules—it’s about confidence, respect, and feeling comfortable in any social setting. Cotillion empowers students to present themselves with poise while making others feel at ease!
The Cotillion season for the 2026 - 2027 school year will run from September through January and consists of five classes and the annual Black and White Ball which will be held in January. Classes are held on one Sunday a month and are divided by grade level, with a balanced number of boys and girls in each class. The Central Austin Chapter classes are held at Hotel Viata in Westlake. The once a month flexible schedule allows families to participate in sports and other activities with ease. Make up classes are always available with our sister Chapters.
The maximum number of students per class for this season is 50. 25 gentlemen and 25 ladies. Classes are filled on a first come, first serve basis giving priority to returning families and legacy siblings. We highly recommend registering early to guarantee placement in our program.
WHAT STUDENTS LEARN:
LIFE SKILLS & SOCIAL CONFIDENCE
- Making introductions and strong first impressions
- The art of conversation
- Giving and receiving compliments
- Group participation and social awareness
- Cell phone etiquette and modern manners
ETIQUETTE & MANNERS
- Table manners and formal place settings
- Dining styles: American, Asian, and Continental
- Writing thank-you notes and acknowledgments
- Appropriate dress for every occasion
- Being a gracious guest and host
SOCIAL DANCE INSTRUCTION
Students learn a variety of popular dances, including:
- Cha Cha
- Foxtrot
- Waltz
- Swing
- Salsa
- Two-Step
- Cotton-Eyed Joe
- Current Line Dances
All dances are taught using current, age-appropriate music to keep the experience engaging and fun!
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT THAT LASTS
Beyond skills and etiquette, our program emphasizes values that shape strong character:
- Respect
- Honesty
- Responsibility
- Fairness
- Compassion
Students leave with greater confidence, stronger social awareness, and skills they can use for a lifetime.
Tuition Rates for the 2026 - 2027 season (all inclusive):
6th grade: $415
7th and 8th grade: *$475
* 7th and 8th grade tuition includes a 5-course formal instructional luncheon at the Black and White Ball
Each class introduces new etiquette and dance instruction. Tuition includes:
(5): 1.5 hour classes
Etiquette, life skills, and dance training
NLJC student booklet and reference guide
Refreshments during class
Prizes during the classes
Invitation to the Black & White Ball
5- course formal instructional luncheon at the Black & White Ball (7th & 8th graders only)
REFUND POLICY: Refunds will only be given to families moving or under extreme circumstances in fairness to those on the waitlist. Refunds cannot be given for scheduling conflicts as dates for the season are posted 6 months in advance.
CLASS TIMES:
6th Grade: 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
7th & 8th Grade: 2:45 - 4:15 p.m.
DIRECTOR CONTACT INFORMATION:
Phone: 512-785-7068
Email: [email protected]
About Director
Director Alexandra Starnes has been involved with the National League of Junior Cotillions Travis County Chapters for 20 years. She started the Junior Cotillion program as a shy, skeptical 6th grader but soon blossomed into a confident young adult. After attending all three years of Junior Cotillion, Mrs. Starnes was invited to be a student assistant and worked with NLJC throughout her high school years. Upon graduation, Mrs. Starnes tried out for the world-famous Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and was selected to the elite team. During her time in Dallas she accepted the position to be the NLJC Assistant Director of the Travis County Chapters. She received her dance education degree and teacher certification from Texas State University, specializing in drill team directing. She believes the National League of Junior Cotillions program has the ability to guide students into becoming well-mannered, savvy young adults who will positively impact their communities for years to come. Alexandra is entering her 12th season as a Director with NLJC. She is the owner and Director of the Travis County and Williamson County Chapters.