The PTO has a long-standing tradition of offering a set of “old school” dance and social etiquette lessons to sixth graders, utilizing a trusted professional dance instructor. The tradition was put on hold due to Covid, so this year we are offering the lessons to both sixth and seventh graders, during separate times on three consecutive Friday evenings in May in the Washburne gymnasium.
This is a low-key introduction to co-ed social functions for middle schoolers, and they will have a variety of randomly assigned dance partners. Historically, kids enjoy this opportunity to:
- See themselves and their friends dressed up
- Learn types of ballroom dances that may come in handy someday (e.g. the waltz)
- Do something different and fun on a Friday evening!
Date/Time/Registration
- 5/6
- 6th graders 5:30-6:30pm
- 7th graders 7-8pm
- 5/13
- 6th graders 5:30-6:30pm
- 7th graders 7-8pm
- 5/20
- 6th graders 5:30-6:30pm
- 7th graders 7-8pm
Registration will be open until April 29, 2022.
Fee is $40/Child (please not there are no refunds and we are not able to be prorate)
Q&A
Q: Who can attend and what is the registration process?
A: Only students from 6th and 7th grade from Skokie & Washburne, whose names are on the registration list will be allowed to attend.
Q: When and where is drop off?
A: Social Dance will be held at Washburne School gymnasium. Check in will begin at ten minutes prior to the start time. The entrance to the Washburne gymnasium is located on Elm Street.
Q: What is the policy on cell phones and photos?
A: Cell phone use and photos will not be allowed in the school. Any displayed phone will be collected until the end of the event.
Q: Does my child have to do social dance lessons?
A: No, this is a totally optional event, sponsored by the PTO, taking place outside of school hours.
Q: Do I need to invest in expensive formal attire for my child to attend?
A: No. The kids are encouraged to dress nicer than they would for school (jackets, ties, skirts, dresses), but the kids should dress how they are most comfortable and parents should not feel pressured to spend money (think about borrowing from neighbors!). Think low-key dance lessons versus formal school dance!
Q: Do parents attend?
A: Parents are invited to come to the third and final lesson, to spectate from the bleachers. The PTO will recruit some parent volunteers to help chaperone and ensure that all cell phones are put away during the event.
Q: Will there be a code of conduct required?
A: Yes, so please please instruct your child to show respect to all students and instructors. “No matter who you are paired with…act graciously” and under no circumstances may you “reject a partner”.