National League of Junior Cotillions
Pine Belt Chapter

Preparing today's youth for tomorrow's world!!

We believe that etiquette is a lifelong journey which is learned and retained through repeated exposure.  For this reason, we encourage our students to participate in the program for several consecutive years.  There are different levels of classes based on age and years in cotillion.  We encourage our students to participate in the program for several consecutive years. That is why we have the different levels of classes based on age and years in cotillion. This program is a multi-level program so your child can join us for several consecutive years. 

PROGRAM CURRICULUM 

Classes are held once a month to accomodate busy lifestyles. Studies have shown this to be an effective schedule. and students are more likely to retain the skills which are learned over a longer period of time. We welcome our young Ladies and Gentlemen to participate in the classes. They will learn and have fun while preparing for their future.The course consists of five classes that meet once a month  usually starting in September or October and conclude in February or March. The Instructional Balls or party that allow formal opportunities to practice all training. There is usually a Holiday Class or Winter Class Party after the first part of the season classes and then The Grand Spring Ball that will be the culmination of the cotillion year. This is usually held in March or April.

Etiquette booklets are given to students receive a handbook to review and practice skills during the month between classes and are encouraged to complete a "Cotillion Challenge" that are in their student booklets provided.  These booklets are to be brought to every class but not to the balls. . 

Parents Dip into Dancing -Parents are invited to attend the last part of our February class to learn some basic ballroom dance. At the Grand Spring Ball, parents are invited to attend the last half to observe and to dance with their children featuring our Daddy/Daughter, Mother/Son Dances. 

The Grand Spring Ball will be the culmination of the cotillion year. This is usually held in March or April. This allows students with an appropriate environment to practice the etiquette and dance skills they have learned and to enjoy self-assurance that comes from knowing the proper manners to use. 

Instructional Dinner for students in their second and succeeding seasons have an instructional dinner that is added to their season along with additional information that builds on their dance and social skills.  Students are guided with individual attention and instruction as each course is served. 

INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

 The rules of etiquette, ethics and manners are designed to make sure everyone knows what to do in social situations so no one will feel uncomfortable. Training in standard ballroom dancing gives young people a social skill that they can enjoy their entire life. The etiquette in social dance encompasses all aspects of proper behavior. Students will learn the fox trot, Waltz, cha cha, swing and several line dances. All dancing is taught to Top 40 music that has been screened for lyrics. Classes provide opportunities to learn and practice new skills in a safe and comfortable environment. Instruction includes introductions and shaking hands, table manners, telephone and electronic etiquette, polite conversation, interview skills, wedding and party etiquette, thank you notes, business etiquette, RSVP etiquette and proper interaction between ladies and gentlemen. Classes are dress up affairs for which careful grooming is required. Hair should be neatly combed, fingernails clipped and clean, shoes polished. 

STUDENTS APPROPRIATE DRESS

Classes:

Ladies: Should wear conservative Sunday dresses or skirts, or skirts,
short white gloves and dress shoes (just no tennis shoes or flip flops).

Gentlemen: Khaki pants, dress shirt, tie, navy or dark blazer, hard soled shoes
( just no tennis shoes).

 The Spring Ball:

Ladies:  White dresses can be formal/long or tea length and have sparkle or sequins and trim and white gloves 

Gentlemen:   Black Tie Tux  The Classic Black Tux.

( Invitations will be sent with time and RSVP)                  

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT 

Members are required to conduct themselves at all times in accordance with the courtesies taught. The directors reserve the right to request the withdrawal of any lady or gentleman who fails to show progress in this area. At no time will the students be allowed to loiter around the facilities or in the restrooms.

Parents of Junior Cotillion members are asked to chaperone one specified dance during the year. It is a joyous sight to see these young people in action. Parents are encouraged to stress the importance of prompt arrival and departure for each event.

 HOW TO REGISTER

Registrations may be completed online.  Please go to the Classes tab and go to Classes Available section,  click your class choice and there is the class information, membership dues, and class schedule, and them click on registration tab in this section  or go to the Registration tab on the left side of this page to complete this online registration.   NOTE: We will offer an extra class during the season for those that are beginning later and if you have to miss a class.  

TUTION  

Membership dues for Year I are: $340.  Dues for Year II are $360 and include all costs for the training and ball pluse the instructional dinner.  Dues for Premiere are $360. We highly recommend that you send in your reservation early, as class sizes are limited  and are filled on a first come first-come first-serve basis. Payments can be made online using PayPal at www.nljc.com/chapter/pinebeltms and they do charge a fee for this, or checks made to Greater Pine Belt Chapter.  Please put your child's first and last name in the memo line and mail to our address below.   Tuition may be paid in full with the application or half with the application  and the remaining half by September 1, 2024.  There will be no refunds except in the case of extraordinary circumstances such as moving or illness, in fairness to students who are placed on the waiting list.  Payment plans customized to fit your budget are available. There is a discount for multiple children enrolled. Please contact the Director for the details.

Mailing address:

NLJC Greater Pine Belt Chapter

Roma Rahaim Graham

Director

122 West Canebrake Blvd. 

Hattiesburg, MS   39402

If you have any questions about Junior Cotillion, please contact Director, Roma Rahaim Graham, at [email protected] or 601-264-7019 H or 601-549-0631 C. 

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                                                           Preparing today's youth for tomorrow's world