Frequently Asked Questions
Children ages 1.5 years (18 months) by September 30th of the current year can enroll at Footnotes.
Registration begins in May! - If you want to be first to know when when the registration site goes live to the public, get registered today!
Currently Enrolled Students:
Priority registration access will be 1 week prior to open registration. You will receive a special link with the email you have on file with us.
Our NEW season begins August 5th, 2024
The LAST week of classes is June 15th 2025
Recital dates for 2025 are already confirmed for June 19th - 20th - 21st, 2025 at the Gallo theater!
Builds confident and resilient individuals
Encourages and supports the whole person
Fosters creativity and open mindedness
Creates connection between people and cultures
Provides a deep appreciation for culture and art
Stimulates and activates the body and mind simultaneously
Challenges, motivates, and drives us to work hard
Encourages our spirit and bravery
Teaches disappointment and happiness
Teaches the value in team
Teaches self-worth
Releases more dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin than any other aerobic exercise, improving mood and overall general health
Releases high amounts of cortisol in the brain reducing stress and anxiety
Develops new neural pathways to increase brain activity and enhance memory, reading, and math skills
Improves communication
Improves musicality
Improves motor skills, balance, body and spatial awareness
Increases strength
Tones and shapes muscles
Phones or ipads in the classroom? We don't think so
And finally, it allows us to just be - to celebrate and to take pride in our selves, each other, our wins and our achievements!
December 10th | Tech & Specialty Classes
February 15th | Movement, Fundamental & Academy Classes
❗️Early Enrollment Recommended: Most classes fill before the season begins in August. Enrollment past Dec 10th is subject to level, spots available, & costume availability.
We understand popular classes fill up quickly! If your desired class is full, you can add yourself to our waitlist.
This ensures you'll be contacted in the order you joined the waitlist if a spot opens up. When a spot becomes available, we'll notify you and give you the option to:
Enroll in the class
Remove yourself from the waitlist
Benefits of the waitlist:
It ensures you have a chance to get into the desired class if someone withdraws.
You won't miss out on potential openings if you're not actively checking class availability.
Dancers are only allowed in the classrooms, with the exception of our MOVEMENT classes (designed for toddlers and caregivers to participate together).
The windows will be closed in order to ensure full focus from all the dancers and limit distractions.
You'll be able to view your dancer's class from the TV monitors in the lobby (a new feature to Footnotes Dance Studio operational in August).
This way you are always able to see your dancer's class and your child is able to focus in class.
New Dancers:
We consider age as a starting point, but placement is finalized once classes begin.
We will not hesitate to move a dancer if they are not in a suitable class.
This ensures your dancer is placed in a class that matches their experience level and helps them thrive.
Returning Dancers:
Teachers will evaluate students in the spring and provide class placement suggestions for the following season, considering their progress throughout the year. These suggestions will be accessible through your parent portal.
What this means for you:
The evaluation ensures your child isn't placed in a class that's too advanced or too basic, and for returning dancers, the teacher suggestions help you and your dancer choose the most suitable class for continued growth.
Making Adjustments:
If, after the evaluation, we determine your child's current class isn't the right fit, our admin team will reach out to you (usually before November) to discuss alternative class options. This ensures a smooth transition for your dancer's continued progress.
Our class schedule is available on our website in the class section [Here].
We recommend checking back closer to the registration period (May-July), as the schedule is subject to change.
Classes meet weekly, with the exception of holidays. Specific class schedules and meeting times are listed on the website.
Absolutely! We want to make sure dance is a great fit for your child. That's why we offer a free trial class for new students.
To register for a trial class, please follow these steps:
Create an Account: Head over to our log in and create an account for yourself.
Sign Waiver: Once you have an account, you'll be able to sign our electronic policy and waiver form.
Schedule Trial Class: After completing the waiver, contact the studio to schedule a day and time for your child's trial class. Drop-ins for trial classes are not possible
If you cannot register to a trial, please call us! 209-538-8544
What to Wear to Trial Class
For your child's comfort and ease of movement during the trial class, please dress them in comfortable clothing suitable for dance. Leggings or cotton shorts (depending on the weather) and a t-shirt are perfect. Long hair should be pulled back in a ponytail or bun to keep it out of their face.
We may offer limited summer classes in July, depending on instructor availability and enrollment.
Having your email registered with us will ensure that you are notified if we launch a summer session.
Tuition pricing is located on our pricing page.
A membership fee of $35 is due at the time of registration each season.
This fee is per dancer, as it secure their placement in class; therefore, is non-refundable if you drop before they begin class in August.
Do you require AutoPay for tuition payments?
Yes, all families are required to have a credit card stored on file in our secure enrollment system for automatic payments.
What if the cardholder's name is different from the guardian?
If the cardholder's name is different from the guardian enrolling the dancer, you are required to list their contact information on the account as well. This allows us to contact them if there are any issues processing the payment.
When is tuition billed each month?
Tuition is automatically debited on the 20th of each month.
Does tuition cover the current or following month's classes?
Tuition charged on the 20th of each month covers your dancer's spot in class for the following month. (Example: Tuition paid on September 20th secures your dancer's place for October classes.)
How do I make a tuition payment?
Payments are automatically processed with AutoPay on the 20th of the month.
If you need to change your card on file, please call or text us to update before the 19th of the month to avoid any disruption in service and/or late fee.
Accepted Payment Methods
We accept credit card payments through our secure enrollment system.
We do not accept checks.
Cash payments are only accepted with the understanding that we do keep cash on hand; therefore, cannot make change.
Do you charge late fees? Yes, as of July 1st, 2024 we do.
A late fee of $15 will be applied to accounts with a remaining balance after the 25th of the month.
Do you prorate tuition fees if we join later in the month? Yes!
Dancers starting after the first week of the month will have tuition automatically prorated.
Please note: Those who enroll after January will also have to pay for their costume at enrollment. Please see the section about costumes to learn more.
Need to drop a class? We understand!
To avoid future charges, submit a completed drop form.
Simply informing a staff member verbally (in person, text, or phone) isn't a formal drop. The same goes for email inquiries – you'll still be charged unless we receive the drop form.
Deadline to Stop Charges: Submit the form by the 15th of the month to avoid automatic payments for the following month.
Get the Drop Form link by:
Texting or Calling 209-538-8544
Emailing support@footnotesdancestudio.com with "Drop Form Request" in the subject line
Stop By! Visit the studio during open hours for a QR code to scan
The drop form link is not posted on our site so these 4 methods are the only way to get the link.
Drop Form Processing:
We process all drop forms received by 6:00 PM on the same day.
Forms received outside of our billing office hours (after 6:00 PM) will be processed on the next business day.
Our front desk staff cannot process drop requests on site. This is done by our billing department.
Weekend/Holiday Reminder: The 15th of the month deadline may shift to the next business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday.
For current business hours and closures, visit our website's “Calendar” page.
Once tuition is processed, it is not refundable.
Yes, we do! Having a consistent dress code in each class allows teachers to properly assess body alignment and ensures dancers feel comfortable and confident. We believe proper attire helps dancers focus on technique, safety, and enjoyment in class.
Where to Find Dancewear:
Everything you need is conveniently available for purchase or order at our studio's front desk! Or you can go to The Dance bag on McHenry, in Modesto.
Online ordering for shoes can be tricky. Every brand has a different size chart and does not compare to your street shoes size.
Class-Specific Attire:
Please refer to your class description on our website and note our office hours if you need to get your apparel from us!
General Requirements:
Hair: For safety and ease of movement, please have your dancer's hair neatly brushed and secured in a ponytail, bun, or braid to keep it away from their face.
First Two Weeks: We understand it takes time to acquire dance attire. New dancers will have a two-week grace period to wear comfortable clothing (no jeans, no croc shoes) while they find the appropriate attire for their class.
Annual Performances | Year End Recital
At our annual year-end recital, our dancers will experience a remarkable journey filled with unforgettable moments. From custom-made costumes to on-stage dress rehearsals and professional photoshoot sessions, the experience is designed to celebrate their dedication, hard work, and growth. This is their opportunity to shine on stage, creating lasting memories and showcasing passion for dance in an unforgettable performance.
Recital Shows
How many recital shows are there?
-There will be a total of 4 recital shows held in June at the Gallo Theater in Modesto.
How many shows will my child perform in?
-Your dancers will perform in 2 shows.**
**Dancers in the MUVEMENT classes ages 3 & under will dance in 1 show with opt in option to add a 2nd show due to their age and limited space backstage.
Can I choose which show my child participates in?
-Choosing the specific show (A or B) is possible at the time of enrollment. However, if your child is enrolled in multiple classes, you can minimize the number of performances by registering them for classes assigned to the same show (A or B) during enrollment.
Here's an example:
If you register your child for Ballet (assigned to Show A) and Hip Hop (assigned to Show A), they would only perform in one recital (Show A = 2 shows).
But, if you register your child for Ballet (assigned to Show A) and Jazz (assigned to Show B), they would have to participate in both recitals (Show A and Show B = 4 shows).
We recommend checking the class schedule or website for the show assignments (A or B) while registering your child for multiple classes.
Tickets: Prices range from $18 - $35 (available for purchase closer to the date from Gallo).
Program Ads: Are available for pre-order in April, but are optional cost.
Recital Participation Requirements
Dancers are required to perform in their assigned shows. This means they must be present for BOTH shows.
Dancers will also have a Dress Rehearsal date at the theater during their week. Dress Rehearsal means they will come in their costume and run through their routine on the stage. Rehearsals during show week are a requirement to perform.
Free Admission for Performing Dancers: Dancers do not need a ticket to watch the show as they will be backstage for the duration of each recital.
Parent will have access to a recital handbook in April that will list all the details for the show and dress rehearsals. Dress rehearsal and show performance dates are a requirement to attend.
Rehearsal dates are in FULL Costume, on stage and the Gallo theater. Typically Show A Dress Rehearsal is the Tuesday of Show week and Show B Dress rehearsal is Wednesday of show week.
All details for the current season's show will be sent via email to you mid April. of the current season.
Costumes are a requirement to perform in our recitals. Please see our costume overview, policy.
Footnotes Dance Studio: Costume Ordering & Distribution Information
This information outlines the costume ordering process, disbursement timeline, and important policies for all Footnotes Dance Studio dancers participating in recitals and showcases.
Costumes are a requirement for participation.
The Process & Costume Fees:
October: Our Admin Team will begin measuring dancers while in class. (AVERAGE COSTS: Movement & Fundamental: $115, Academy Classes: $135, Specialty & Tech Classes: $135 - $150 - fee covers costume + tax, shipping, accessories, tights/socks, music edits, custom mixes)
Through December 19th: Log in to view details, make partial payments (including Klarna credit option), and most importantly, confirm your child's costume size.
Important Deadlines:
December 5th: Contact us by email for special arrangements regarding upcoming costume dues.
December 9th: ALL costume balances will be automatically debited to your card on file.
November - December 19th (Important!): Deadline to modify costume size in your Parent Portal. This is the size we are ordering for your child to wear on stage in June.
Late Fee:
A $25 late fee will be applied per costume for unpaid balances on December 10th.
This fee helps cover the additional administrative work required to process late payments and potentially order from separate vendors if necessary.
Shipping & Arrival:
Costumes ship from vendors January - May.
Rarely do costumes ship by class. They arrive based on vendor stock.
Try-On Policy:
All costumes must be tried on at the studio and approved for fit by our costume coordinator before you leave. Costumes taken off premises void your opportunity to exchange them.
Exchange Policy:
Vendors allow two weeks from the delivery date to report size exchanges.
Consistent attendance is crucial after mid-January for potential exchanges.
Exchange Fee: $25 (covers shipping/reordering/re-shipping)
Consistent attendance, especially after mid-January, is crucial for timely try-ons and exchange eligibility. Footnotes will make a reasonable effort to contact you if your child's costume arrives and has been at the studio for more than two weeks. However, we cannot guarantee successful contact or be held responsible for missed exchanges due to your absences.
Alterations may be necessary if replacements can't arrive by showtime.
Action Required: Double-check your child's size and make any changes in your portal by December 19th. If you need assistance in your final costume size, please do not hesitate to email us on or before December 19th!
Additional Notes:
Costumes will not be ordered until paid.
Credit card payments only.
Shoes are not included with costumes. Teachers will note shoe choices in the portal for parents to get by May 5th.
Costume availability and substitutions are subject to vendor limitations. If we need to pick an alternate costume, we will do that to ensure a timely delivery.
Costume fees are non-refundable, even if you withdraw from enrollment prior to their arrival.
These costume ordering and disbursement policies are also outlined in the waiver you signed upon enrolling your child in classes. We have included them here for your convenience and as a quick reference.
Here are the best ways to reach us:
Text Us! 📲209-538-8544 We recently upgraded our system to receive texts! This is our preferred method of communication, so feel free to text us with any questions you may have.
Call Us! ☎️ You can also reach us by phone call on the same number.
Email Us! 📤 You can email us at support@footnotesdancestudio.com.
Stop By! Please note our hours/days of operation and come in and see us! Click here to redirect to our "Contact" page for our address and contact links.
⚠️Instagram Messenger: While we have an Instagram presence, we don't monitor messages on that platform as frequently as texts/emails.
We encourage you to:
Add Footnotes as a contact on your phone: 209-538-8544
Keep your contact information current: This ensures you receive all studio communications directly.
Whitelisting our email: By adding "support@footnotesdancestudio.com" to your safe sender list helps prevent emails from going to spam.
Important Note: Our email communication is essential for keeping you informed about important studio updates, registration deadlines, recital information, and other time-sensitive details. Opting out of emails and texts will affect your enrollment status, as this is our primary method of communication with parents.
