02/25/2010

 

 

Dance-a-Cross Scholarships

 

Financial assistance through the Dance-a-Cross scholarship program is available for those who qualify. Applicants are asked to meet with us to determine what level of assistance is needed as well as completing a scholarship application form. We strongly adhere to holding all information regarding individual scholarships in strict confidence between Dance-a-Cross and the recipient.

 

History

When Susan Palso started Dance-a-Cross in 1995, one of her goals was that no student would miss out on dancing because of financial hardship.  In those early days, nearly one of every three students danced for free or at reduced rates.  That philosophy has not changed and no child has ever been denied dance lessons because of financial hardship.  As the studio has grown, so has the number of scholarship students. In 2008 thirty-nine students benefited from the Dance-a-Cross scholarship program.  

 

Policy

The following three factors are used to determine what level of assistance is to be given. 

1. Financial Need: Information obtained from a scholarship application form and by a private meeting with the applicant will help determine what level of assistance is available.  
2. Service: Is the individual requesting a scholarship willing to volunteer time to help at the studio or at Dance-a-Cross events?  (Examples: studio maintenance, making props, setting out chairs, lining up students at a performance, chaperoning students in a parade)
3. Priority: Does the individual requesting a scholarship demonstrate and show evidence to indicate that their child’s dancing is a priority?

 

Scholarship Termination

The scholarship will last until the end of the dance season in June. The application process will be repeated for the following year if assistance is required.  If the recipient’s financial situation changes for the better they may voluntarily terminate the scholarship at any time and pay regular fees. Scholarships may be terminated due to poor attendance in order to make space for other students who want to dance.  

 

Scholarships will not be given to pay for the following:   

• Store merchandise such as, t-shirts, leotards, sweatshirts, etc.
• New shoes (note: we do keep a stock of used shoes which we sell very inexpensively or give away.)
• Competition related costs: tuition, competition fees, competition warm-up, or special apparel and accessories, travel expenses.
• Private lessons
• Miscellaneous items such trophies, recital DVD, etc.

For Additional Financial Assistance

There are government programs and scholarships available for children from qualified low-income families.  Please consider contacting the Department of Human Services and your local City Chamber of Commerce for more information.