​Dancers, acrobats, and families - 
It has been an awesome start to the 2019-202 season here at KDS. Thank you so much for allowing us to teach your children, get to know them, and share our love of dance. 
Just a few reminders and announcements as we head into October!
Monday, September 30th, KDS will be hosting a fundraiser for breast cancer research and support for the fighters. This will be a free master class taught my Imagine National Talent director Shaun Moe. This class is free but we will be collecting donations for the Imagine National Challenge Breast cancer research charity. Ages 6-11 years will have an hour long class offered at 6:30pm in studio A and ages 12 and up will be offered a master class at 7:30pm, also in studio A. We are hoping to raise a nice chunk of change for this amazing organization and have a whole lot of fun dancing. These master classes are open to all KDS students as well as dancers from any other studio. So bring a friend and your jazz shoes! For more information about this charity check them out by following this link! http://www.imaginedancechallenge/bcrf-partnership/
Monday, September 30th - Saturday, October 5th will be bring a friend to dance class week. All recreational students will be welcomed to bring a friend of similar age to participate in classes with them. This is just a fun way to share our fun and learning with the community. Everyone who participates will receive a special treat for joining us or bringing a friend. Competitive dancers may also bring a friend to either a ballet or technique class. If your friend loves class and signs up, you will receive a $10.00 credit on your account to use for tuition, costume, or merchandise sales. Remember friends must be in the same age bracket as the class they are attending. 
As a general reminder - lesson fees are due by the 15th of every month. Late fees are applied to accounts on the 20th. Please make sure you are paying lesson fees on time to avoid additional costs.
Costume deposits are due ASAP. We will measure students for costumes at the end of October and start selections and reservations in November and December. Costume balances will be published in November and due in January. We must have payments to order your students costumes. This will include acro classes since they will be participating in the recital this year!
October 24th - 30th will be our annual Halloween parties and our first parent viewing week. Students in 5th grade and under may wear costumes to class and bring treats to share. Treats must be individually wrapped. Older students may also participate with treats but should still be dressed to dance, a hat or headpiece and or makeup is acceptable. Parents will be invited in about midway through the class to watch a combo of the things classes have been working on so far this season. There will be no dance classes on Thursday, October 31st so students may enjoy celebrating the Halloween traditions. Mark your calendars and watch for reminders!
Please be aware the owners of the property have installed cameras and speed monitors in the parking lot. People using high speed through the lot will have their plate numbers recorded and turned over to the police. We have been having a lot of issues with people speeding in the lot and for the safety of all, especially the kids, our landlords have taken these actions. Please drive slowly and watch for littles.
Thanks again for a great start to the season. We hope you are enjoying your classes and please never hesitate to come to us with any concerns or suggestions. Thanks for treating our new studio remodel with kindness and respect, it is very appreciated. We will continue to strive to provide your dancers with fun but structured classes, a top notch facility, and a comfy second home.
Have a great month and happy dancing!
Miss Kerri and staff

Kerri’s Dance Studio … 1851 Madison Ave. Suite 500 … 323-7396
www.kerrisdancestudio.com
 
Welcome to the 27th season of dance at Kerri’s Dance Studio. We are looking forward to a great year and lots of fun. For those of you who are new to KDS, a special welcome and we hope you enjoy your time with us. Of course to all my returning students, I hope you had a great summer and are ready to get back to dance. I am so excited to get back to class after 4 wonderful recitals – Thanks so much for a great weekend. We are so excited about all the new classes we are able to offer this season and looking forward to watching the kids learn and grow too. And of course, welcome back staff as well! We are excited to welcome 2 new teachers, Miss Kelsey Walker will be joining us. Kelsey grew up at KDS and is excited to be back teaching. At KDS she was a member of our competitive team and holds 4 national titles. While in college she danced on the Grand View dance team continuing to win numerous awards and serving as captain her senior year. Kelsey has a degree nursing and is ready to bring her passion and love for dance to KDS. Also joining us AGAIN this year after a little hiatus to start her family is Miss Chelsea Luth. Chelsea will be teaching classical ballet and is also certified in yoga and plates. We are blessed to have her skills and wisdom shared with our students.
            The following are some of the guidelines and policies of the studio. Please be sure to read this section and discuss these things with your dancer/s, especially if you are planning on dropping your dancer off or carpooling.
            The Parking – Main studio (1851 Madison Ave.) There is ample parking RIGHT in front of the studio. We do ask that if your classes are before 6 you do not park directly in front of the businesses on either side of the studio. Also be sure to always watch for little ones entering and exiting the studio. At the Mall of the Bluffs location the best place to park is near the Planet Fitness location. Our bay is just inside those doors near the food court.
            The Dress Code – ALL STUDENTS must follow the proper dress code for class every week. The first time there is a violation of the dress code the student will be warned; a card may be sent home with the student. The next time there is a violation the dancer will be asked to sit out of class and a parents will be notified. All dancers in all classes should wear fitted tops that are made for dance and athletics. NO T-SHIRTS. Athletic tops do not say Old Navy or GAP. Please be sure your tops are designed for dance and athletics. The only pants allowed in class are those that are fitted from the thigh to the ankle and do not lie past the anklebone. If a dancer wears long and/or baggy pants to class they will be asked to take them off and borrow a pair of shorts for class. Shorts, skirts, leggings, and fitted capri pants are perfect for class. No denim please, not even stretch denim. Please use your best judgment when helping your student select dancewear, and if you are not sure, just ask. But do have another selection with you in case you are asked to change. All dancers in classical ballet MUST wear a leotard and tights. NO EXCEPTIONS. This is for the dancers’ safety and proper fit of the shoe as well as visuals for muscle development.
            The dress code is in place so that the staff and I can see posture and body alignment and do our jobs properly in instructing your student. This way you are getting the maximum benefit from your class time. Each individual teacher may have a certain part of the dress code they maintain differently, for example teacher may allow tennis shoes for hip hop. Teachers will address these issues the first weeks of class.
            Shoes – You will find a list of class times and the required shoes for that class in this packet. Shoes and proper dancewear can be purchased from the KDS “Madison Avenue” dance shop. The dance shop will be open Tues. Wed. and Thurs. starting Aug. 7th from 5pm to 8pm. The KDS dance shop carries all the shoes required at the studio in stock and orders take only 5-7 working days. We also have the latest dance fashions in stock so please come in and check us out. Please be aware that the dance shop carries some shoes that are not the “required” shoe for KDS. This is because we supply other studios dancers as well. We would be happy to help you with sizing and fit and show you are new inventory of fun dancewear. In addition there is a new dance and performance attire store opening near the studio. Check out Stage Style when they open in mid August. I have been in contact with management and I am loving what they will be bringing as options to Council Bluffs in dance attire and shoes. This is exciting! Check out their Facebook page or watch ours for more info and discount coupons.
In the Studio – Dance shoes only should be worn on the studio dance floors. Please no street shoes unless otherwise instructed. Cheer students may wear tennis shoes to class as well as all boy hip hop dancers, just be sure they are clean. There is no gum or candy allowed in the studio during classes. Students may not wear jewelry to class that may be distracting from instruction. Parents are expected to wait in the designated waiting areas and not enter the dance rooms without permission. Parents should refrain from speaking to students during class and should wait until the breaks for changing shoes or the end of class. This is so students can focus in class with minimal distractions. Siblings should only be in the waiting rooms when absolutely necessary and should be kept quiet and not permitted to enter the dance room. If the entryways become distracting screen doors or curtains will be closed and parent viewing will only be allowed the first lesson of each month. I apologize if this sounds harsh but it is the best way to ensure class is worthwhile and rewarding and in the end the students feel confident. There is no food or beverages allowed (other than water) anywhere in the studio. Please do not enter other dance rooms, even if they are not being used at the time.
            In the dancers lounge there are benches, coat hooks & shoe cubbies for dancers to store shoes and personal items during classes. No dance bags or coats should be left in the waiting area or brought into dance rooms. Please be sure to label your dancers shoes with their name or initials. Any shoes or other items left behind will be placed on the lost and found shelf for 4 weeks, after that they will be donated.
            Please do not leave valuables in the waiting area. Bring purses into the dance room and leave on the bench in your sight. KDS will not be responsible for any lost, missing or stolen items. It is best just to leave valuables at home!
            In climate weather – Kerri’s Dance Studio will follow the Council Bluffs School district in regards to cancelling due to weather conditions. If CBCSD cancels school for day, has early dismissal, or cancels evening activities due to weather, KDS will cancel classes. If you are unsure we will post on Face book, our website, and put a message on our voicemail by 3:00pm. Classes cancelled due to weather will be made up in the spring. A schedule for those make-up options will be passed out in classes. If you are living in a rural or outlying are or you are just uncomfortable coming into class due to weather, please just call the studio and let us know. We understand and do not want anyone to risk themselves or their kids just to get to class.
 
            *IMPORTANT  POLICY - Lesson and other fees – Lesson fees are due the first week of every month. You will be required to pay for lessons whether or not your student attends classes. If a student misses three lessons in a row their position in class will be made available to anyone on the waiting list. If you know your student will be absent from class please call and let us know. If your student will be absent three weeks or more please see your instructor to make arrangements for their class position to be held. If you quit and do not notify us, you will be charged for the lessons and possibly turned over to collection until some form of notification is received. If you would like to drop or add classes there is specific paperwork that needs to be filled out and is available upon request at the receptionists desk. You can pay online, through our online registration/parent portal or at our desk in the main location. The desk is open Mon.-Thurs. from 4:30 – 8:30pm and Saturdays from 8:45am – 11:45am.
Again this year is the pay in bulk discount. We are offering both a monthly fee as well as a bulk trimester fee. The trimester fee saves 10% off the total amount of lesson fees for 3 months. Please understand you cannot receive a trimester discount if you are already late in payment. Example the 2nd trimester (3 months) payment is due on or before Dec. 15th. If you come into pay after the 20th (5 day grace period) you cannot receive the discount. You will owe the full price for December as well as a late fee. You can pay January, February, and March in a trimester and receive the discount. Keep in mind being “off” in trimester months will mean you may have to pay a month or two at regular price. I hope everyone understand this. Please let me know if you have any questions. Also please keep in mind lesson fees are non refundable unless there is a medical problem. Once you have paid those fees your student is guaranteed that position in that class for that amount of time. Lesson fees can be transferred under most circumstances. To receive the trimester discount you must come into the studio and make your payment at the desk. You can pay monthly fees and other fees online but trimester discounts must be paid at the desk so our staff can enter the discount into the system.
            If your lesson fees have not been received by the 20th of the month at 4:00pm, a $10.00 late fee will be added to your account. NO EXCEPTIONS. All lesson fees and late charges will need to be paid in full before the spring recital in order to participate. Postdating a check does not exclude you from late fees. Monthly lesson fees that have still not been paid after the 20th of the next month will be subject to another additional $10.00 late fee.
            Your costume deposits are due by Aug. 31st or at the time of registration if after this date. Some of you may have paid these at the time of registration, if you are not sure you can look at your account online or give us an email or call. These fees are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE after October 15th. Request for refunds or transfers MUST be received in writing. All costume balances and an itemized costume bill will be passed out as soon as costumes are selected. The costume balances will be due by January 5th. A costume for your student will not be ordered without the balance paid in full. If the balance is received late you take a chance of your students costume will not arrive in time for the spring recital. Recital T-shirts will be included on this bill. Tights WILL NOT be included on this bill and it will be your responsibility to purchase the correct tights for each costume.
On April 22nd recital fees will be due. After paying this fee you will receive your reserved tickets for the spring recital. The fee is $50.00 per family. Each family will receive 6 tickets to the show. Additional tickets will be available for purchase on April 16th as well for $12.00 each.
 
 
 
 
 
            Important dates to mark on the calendar –
August 31st – Costume deposits due
September 4th – Full session classes begin
Oct. 24th – 30th – Halloween party week. Kids ages 8 and under can dress up for classes. All ages will have parent observation and treats at the end of classes. We will also be measuring for costumes this week.
Oct. 31st – No dance classes – Please enjoy the time having fun with your family!
Nov. 19th – 25th – Thanksgiving/Fall break – No dance classes this week. Staff will be in studio working on costume ordering and recital preparation
Dec. 22 – Jan. 4th– Christmas/New Years Break – No dance classes.
Jan. 5th – All costume balances due.
April 15th – 21st – Easter/Spring break – No dance classes - Staff will be in the studio to prep for recital.
April 22th - Tickets for the recital will go on sale and be available for pick up.
May 13th – 17th – Tentative dates for studio pictures for all classes.
May 31st – Dance recital rehearsal – schedule will be published at a later date
June 1st and 2nd – Dance recitals – More details on times to follow.
 
I realize that dance is not something for everyone. If you decide to no longer attend classes throughout the season, please call and let us know so the proper adjustments can be made. It is not only difficult for the instructor when a student quits unannounced; it his hard on the other students in his or her class. We encourage that once classes have begun learning their recital routines, students finish the season.
            In what class a student is placed is at the sole discretion of Kerri and staff. If your student is not satisfied with their class placement, please feel free to give us a call but in the end Kerri will make the final decision. It is important a class is not too difficult for a student, if so the student will almost always feel frustrated and behind. Sometimes a class may appear to be too easy. This may mean the instructor feels like a student needs to focus on the details of technique and placement before they advance to the next level. Each student is individual in their learning and advancement, so comparing one student to another may not always be the best way to analyze a students’ progress.
            Thanks again for registering for classes at Kerri’s Dance Studio. Again, I am looking forward to an incredible season.
 
Some adjustments in the schedule may have been made. As stated on the published schedule we reserve the right to make such changes. I feel the changes made are pretty slight but if there are problems as a result please contact the studio as soon as possible.
           
The KDS open house will be Sat. Aug. 11th from 1-4pm
 
The first dance classes are Sept. 4th through the 10th.

​Kerri’s Dance Studio 2018 Recital Rehearsal Schedule
Friday, June 8th, 2018
This is the schedule for recital rehearsal. This rehearsal will be held at the Mid - American Center. Please come into the hall and have a seat until your routine name is called and given further instructions. This rehearsal IS REQUIRED in order to participate in the recital. This is NOT A DRESS REHEARSAL. Please wear dance attire and be sure to have all your dance shoes. If you have a part of a costume like a hat you would like to practice with to be sure it stays on feel free. Please be on time, we will run as close to schedule as possible. Please take the time to go into the back stage area and find your designated dressing area while you are at the rehearsal. Remember to pick up your dance pictures and recital T shirt at well. You are only needed for the times listed below but feel free to stay, watch, and support other dancers.
 
 
8:30 – 9:00am – Sir Duke, Scouts, DANCE, Dock of the Bay, Stand By Me, Mathew/Madison
9:00 – 9:30pm – Hold Back the River, Pulse, Singin in the Rain Haunted, Believe, My Hands, Bossy, Lazerus
9:30 – 10:00am -  Sound the Police, Fight Night, Emergency, Toxic, Africa, Look What You Made Me Do
10:30 – 11:00am - Who You Are, Barden Bellas, Broken Inside, Down, Down, Down, Vanity, Let’s Get Glam
11:00 – 11:30am – High School Musical, Celtic Waltz, Dancing Queen, All remaining duets/trios
11:30 – 12:15pm – Continue with duet/trios and all Solos
 
4:00 – 4:30pm – Shake a Tail Feather, Signed Sealed Delivered, Ordinary
4:30 – 5:00pm – I Wanna Party, Rock a Hula, Turn the Beat Around
5:00 – 5:30pm – Rock Around the Clock
5:30 – 6:00pm – Land of 1000 Dances
6:00 – 6:30pm – Hippy Hippy Shakes
6:30 – 7:00pm – You Can’t Stop the Beat, All Boys Hip Hop (Jump)
7:00 – 7:30pm – Footloose, Jump Shout Boogie
7:30 – 8:00pm – Ballerina Girl (with pointe dancers too), M.O.V.E.
8:00 – 8:30pm – B.E.A.T., Shake Your Body Down
8:30 – 9:00pm – Dance with Me, Better When I’m Dancing, Boom, Shake the Room
9:00 – 9:30pm – Dancing in the Street, Dancing on My Own, Jump
 
 

​Hello Dance Families - 
Today through Monday mark our last dance classes for the 2017-2018 dance season at Kerri's Dance Studio. Thank you so much fr joining us in the fun and learning. We appreciate the cherish the opportunity to work with your children and get to know them and be part of their journey.
The following are some notes and details regarding the dance recital, notes from pictures about costumes, and other important information. You can also find this all on our website under the tab "newsletter".
Costume notes - 
ALL dancers please be sure to have the correct tights for the performances. We are fully stocked back up on tights so please make sure you have the correct color and style for the recital. Also please be sure to also have the correct shoes!
Boom Shake the Room - Please all dancers wear black socks with this costume so no skin shows from end of legging into shoe.
Dancing in the Streets - If your leggings are capri, please just wear jazz shoes, if your leggings are full length, please wear black socks with this costume.
Rock Around the Clock - neck scarves should be knotted twice and the knot should be on the dancers left hand side.
Rock a Hula - Be sure to pin skirts, the velcro was popping open all through pictures!
You Can't Stop the Beat - Feel free to shorten straps on tops if this will help your dancer not pull on them!


Many have asked about make up for the recital. I suggest dancers do wear a bit of mascara, natural blush or bronzer, and lipstick or glass to bring out their features. The lights can be harsh, oo at them at rehearsal and see what they need. How much or little will be your choice and it is not required.
KDS will be selling Bloomworks flowers as well as small gifts and candy bouquets at all 4 dance recitals. All proceeds benefit the KDS Take Flight competitive team, the dance assistance program, and the KDS Senior Scholarship fund. The flowers are gorgeous and this year options will be a singe rose, three rose bouquet, the KDS special bouquet, or a mixed bouquet. Prices range from $8-$20. 
Professional DVD and digital downloads of all 4 recitals will be available from Mr. Video. Ordering information is available on flyers in the dance studio or you can go to Mr. Video.com. They do an excellent job capturing the shows, the videos are high quality and a great keepsake. We do not allow individual video of any parts of the recital not only for copyright purposes but for the safety of our dancers on stage. Anyone seen taking video will be asked to stop and possibly have their device confiscate. Please do not video tape dances on phones or cameras.
Door for the dressing rooms will open 45 minutes prior to the start of each show. Doors for seating will open 30 minutes prior to show time. The building will not be open more than 1 hour prior to the start of each show. Your dancer should be back stage at least 5 dances before their, dressed and ready. Only dancers ages 7 and under may sit in the audience. All others must remain back stage in the waiting area/green room. Young dancers should e dropped off with parent volunteers Sara, Shannon, Terri, and Trisha at least 5 dances before their own performance. Dancers can be picked up in the same area after they dance. We will have 2-3 additional green room parent volunteers to help keep them occupied and things running smooth as they wait.
Dressing rooms are behind the stage and should be used for changing only, not hanging out... Please do not keep or leave any valuables in the dressing rooms, they ARE NOT supervised. KDS will not responsible for any lost or stolen items from the dressing room area. Please make sure children are waiting for their turn to dance in the green room, where there is adult supervision. Boys will have a separate dressing room also behind the stage but on stage left. Again this room is for changing and is not monitored. 
The order for each show will be available at rehearsal. Reminder - Stage rehearsal is June 8th, the schedule is posted on our website, another copy is attached here, and paper copies are available at the studio. THIS IS REQUIRED. Not attending the rehearsal will mean not participating in the recital. This is NOT A DRESS rehearsal. Please just wear normal dance attire and have all your shoes.
Recital T shirts for all participants will be available for pick up at the stage rehearsal. Those not picked up will be taken to the green room during the shows. Please be sure to get your picked up... all were paid for with costume bills.
Please review your costume sheets for hair for the the recital for each costume. DO NOT just go off the picture! Please read what is typed, it may be different than the catalog picture. 
As a reminder - ALL ACCOUNTS must be paid in full through May and recital fees in order to participate in the annual recital. Please make sure your account is up to date to avoid any issues.
Please do not hesitate to ask any questions. Our goal is to make the recital fun, smooth, and as stress free as possible. we want you to sit back and enjoy your little one and celebrate their success! we are happy to help!
Have a great week - Reminder - there are no dance classes June 5-7 for recital prep and technical rehearsals.


Thanks - 
Miss Kerri and Staff

​Kerri’s Dance Studio   …   1851 Madison Ave. Suite 500   …   323-7296
 
Recital Info
 
We are into our last 2 months of the season at Kerri’s Dance Studio. We have had so much fun working with your children! Our focus is now on recital and making it the best and least stressful as possible.
I think the key to eliminating a lot of the stress from recital weekend is to have as much info as possible and to trust us as a staff. We have been doing this a long time (longer than I’d like to admit) so trust we will do everything we can to make your little one look great, feel great, and have FUN!!!
 
The recital weekend is June 9th – 10th at the Mid American Center. We will have 4 performances, 2 on Saturday, and 2 on Sunday each at 1:00 and 6:00pm. Lists of your dancers routines and which show they will be performing in are out now, it was emailed on the 2nd. If you did not receive this please check at the desk and we will get you a copy. When you receive the list, please be sure to read every column. Again you may be listed to perform in more than one show, check all columns.
                                                        
Many Costumes are arriving each week! When a costume arrives, we will do a fitting in class with our staff. We will take notes of any adjustments that are needed and then take those to our seamstress. All costumes will be steamed and prepared before being sent home. Once home please keep them in good shape and know they may need steamed again before pictures. If you have any questions about costumes please feel free to email us or check at the desk. Be sure to check what tights and shoes are needed for all costumes at the desk or using the flyers in the lobby. We are happy to send home a copy of these flyers as well upon request. We will continue to issue costumes as they arrive. This can be all the way through mid May so please do not panic.
 
All dancers are required to pay a recital fee to participate in the shows. This is to cover the costs of auditorium rental, backdrops, programs, and so much more. The recital fee is $40 for one dancer and $45 for families with 2 or more dancers. These fees must be paid in full before tickets can be issued. We will hold 6 tickets for families with 1 dancer and 7 tickets for families with 2 or more dancers. These tickets can be picked up after fees are paid and after April 16th. Dancers ages 7 and up are required to stay backstage during the performance and cannot be in the audience. Dancers 6 and under may sit in the audience but they will need a ticket. Anyone entering the hall will need a ticket. Babies who will sit on a lap will not need a ticket.
 
If your dancer is in more than one performance you will only receive tickets for one of the performances. You may trade tickets for other performances as long as they are available. If you have a request for which show you would like tickets too, you may place that request with the desk after the list of who is in what show is published. You will be issued tickets to your “main” show. The one that has all your dancers’ routines, siblings, etc.
 
Parent passes will be issued with tickets. These are the passes that will allow a parent into the dressing and backstage area. THIS IS NOT A TICKET. You may not stand in the back of the hall either due to fire codes. This was a problem last year with some parents who just wanted to slip in and watch one dance. This will not be allowed unless there are unsold tickets. If there are unsold tickets we will issue them to parents who are there for multiple shows so they may slip in and watch. Please do not feed the usher “a line”. Last year people were throwing out the “Kerri said”, it is here in writing. It will only be allowed if there is available seating, we will not know that until rehearsal. Plan accordingly.
 
Tickets for the recitals will go on sale April 16th at 4:00pm. There are no early sales and no holding of tickets. You must purchase tickets in person. Tickets will be first come first serve. In the event a show becomes sold out we will begin a waiting list for tickets and buy back any unwanted tickets. Again this is only if a show sells out prior to June 3rd. Tickets are $12.00 each. Be sure you know which show you need tickets for when you come to purchase them.
 
Before recital weekend we will have dance pictures. Pictures will take place May 14th through the 17th in the main studio, during normal class times, with the exception of Saturday. Saturday dancers will be photographed during the week based on the following schedule.
Miss Rachel’s 9:00am class form the Mall of the Bluffs studio will have photos taken on Monday, May 14th at 6:00pm
Miss Ashley’s Saturday Main studio classes will be photographed as follows –
8:45am - Beginner Combo - Wed. May 16th at 6:15pm
9:30am – Beginner Tap & Jazz class – Wed. May 16th at 6:30pm
10:15am – Junior Tap/Jazz – Wed. May 16th at 6:45pm
11:00am –Junior Ballet class – Wed. May 16th at 7:15pm
11:30am – Junior Hip Hop class – Wed. May 16th at 7:30pm
Tumbling class should also come to be photographed. Tumblers should wear their showcase leotards or a black simple leotard. We will take a groups photo as well as individuals. Again these pics will be taken at your normal class time but at the main studio and not the Mall location.
 
Pictures will be taken by Move Up Images photography. We will pass out ordering forms and information. The photographers will take a group picture of each costume and any individuals or buddy shots wanted. This means a Jr. Tap and jazz combo class will take a jazz picture and a tap group picture. Pictures are not required to purchase but we do want everyone there and participating. This is a chance to see how all the costumes and their parts work, what adjustments will need to be made, ect. It’s essentially a dress rehearsal. I will look at all the costumes closely through the week and send out any notes for details and adjustments after. PARENTS MAY NOT TAKE THEIR OWN PICTURES ON THE BACKDROP. You make take your own candid shots in the lobby etc. but no cameras or phones will be allowed in the dance rooms where photos are being taken. Parents not following this guideline will be asked to leave.
 
Rehearsal for the recital will Friday, June 8th from 8:30am – 9:30pm. Please plan accordingly now. A specific time schedule is included in this packet. Please send dancers in regular dancewear and with all their dance shoes. We will have tours of the backstage area, dressing rooms, and green room during rehearsal. Dancers will more than likely only get one chance to practice on stage so please be on time and ready. This rehearsal is REQUIRED unless already specifically excused Those who do not attend will not be allowed to perform in the recitals. Please read the schedule carefully so be sure you know where you are suppose to be when. Rehearsal will be at the Mid American Center. Arriving early is nice especially if you do not know the facility well. It’s also nice for the kids to arrive a bit early to watch others rehearse and get comfortable. At rehearsal you will be able to pick up your recital T shirts and dance pictures.
At rehearsal I will call groups to the backstage area as needed. Please sit in the theater until your routine is called to the backstage area unless on a tour. Make sure dancers have the correct shoes for the routine. Do not leave shoes in the backstage area, all our shoes look the same and someone always loses a pair of shoes at rehearsal.
 
Recital - On the days of the performances dancers should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the show if they are in the first 10 numbers. A show order will be published at a later date. The theme for this years’ show is “Better When I’m Dancin” All songs are about dancing in some way!  It should be fun and entertaining. We have lots of fun little props and surprises in store. The Saturday and Sunday shows will be at 1:00pm and 6:00pm. The doors to the theater will open for seating 45 minutes prior to show times. Please inform family and friends of this. We will have early handicap seating for those in need. If this is required for you, you will need to see the KDS head usher and she will get you seated early.
There is NO SEAT SAVING beyond one for mom who is likely changing and attending to the dancer. If you or your family is not respectful of this policy an usher may ask you to leave. Please understand most shows will be sold out and the theater has policies in effect for large shows. This is one of them so please be aware and respectful.
 
After a dancer is dressed and ready to go they need to report to the green room. The green room is the only area monitored by the KDS staff and volunteers. This will be where dancers will wait to go on stage. Volunteers will assemble groups and a KDS staff member will get the dancers and bring them to the backstage area. After they perform, dancers will be taken back to the green room. Young dancers will not be allowed to leave the green room without a parent. Please remember KDS will not responsible for any backstage area other than the stage wings and the green room. Do not leave young children unattended in the dressing rooms. If your older dancer stays in the dressing room understand it is not monitored and we are not responsible for any dancer or valuables left in the dressing rooms.
 
Dancers should be in the green room at least 5 dances prior to theirs.
At the end of each recital all the dancers are asked to come and sit on stage for a short acknowledgment ceremony and final round of applause. This is not required, especially since it is a very long day for the little ones but we would like as many dancers there as possible. You never know if your name is going to be called for something special, we want you to be there!!!
After the acknowledgements we will keep the little dancers on stage until an adult comes to get them. Remember only parents with a parent pass sticker may come into the dressing areas. All of this is to keep your kids safe!
 
Lists of the order of each show will be available as the days get closer. If you dancer is in a combo class that will perform 2 routines they will likely have 1 dance in each ½ of the show. There will be a 10 minute intermission in the middle of each recital. There will be app. 45 dances in each show.
There is NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY and NO RECORDING/VIDEOTAPING of the dance recital. This is truly for the safety of your child. The flash of a camera is very distracting on stage and can even cause a dancer to lose footing and fall. If there is a costume malfunction having just 1 professional recording of the show will allow us to edit the video and be sure it is not in the wrong hands. With the technically advanced world we live in a video can spread like wildfire, I am putting interest of your child at the forefront. We will provide a professional recording for purchase of each show through Mr. Video productions. They do a great job, have a fast turn around, and are reasonably priced.
 
 We want you to have all the info you need and feel comfortable with this whole process.
LOTS more info will be coming home, this is just an over view but please feel free to ask any questions. Thanks for the opportunity to work with your child. We all love our jobs and hope it is a great experience for all.
 

​Hello dance and tumbling families - 
This month has flown by... I cannot believe it is almost Spring/Easter break. This means recital is right around the corner. There are so many preparations currently in motion. Please read and save emails carefully and don't hesitate to email us any questions, stop by the desk, or Facebook message us. We are happy to help.
The dance recital T shirt list has now been hung in both the main location and Mall of the Bluffs studio. This T shirt will feature the dance recital theme on the front and all the participants names on the back. Please check your child's name is spelled correct and mark what size you would like ordered for them. Size options are only those listed. This list will remain up through the end of April. If you have not selected a size for your child by then we will choose one for you based on their measurements. This name list will also be used to proof the recital program so please double check the spelling of your child's name so it will not only be correct on the T shirt but also in the program. All T shirts were paid for on your dance costume bills.
I am working daily on the list of whom will be in what show for the dance recitals. We refer to this as the show split list. We will have 4 recital performances, different dancers will be in each show. Younger dancers will be in 1 of the 4 shows, 3-5th grade dancers 1-2 shows, middle school dancers 1-2 shows, and high school dancers 2-3 shows. This is a general rule. You will receive these lists via email as well as paper copies in class by the end of the month (email). Paper copies after Easter. I appreciate your patience as I work through this large task. It is not something you want to publish prematurely, it will only cause confusion. We will promise that siblings will have at least 1 show together unless there are special circumstances. We cannot however promise for cousins. We will do our best to accommodate special show requests as well but there are no guarrentees. Organizing over 400 families allows us some options but there are some limits. Again we appreciate your patience as we finalize this part of the show planning.
Tickets for all 4 dance recital performances will go on sale and be available for pick up April 16th at 4:00pm. All families will have 6 tickets held for them to what is considered their MAIN show. This is the show with all their routines are in. A family may have 2 shows with all their dances, in this case we will choose. You may trade tickets to another show as long as they are available. The dance recitals are held at the Mid American center in the Exhibition hall. This allows us ample seating and the option of adding as needed. We will begin with 650 seats per performance. Families with 1 dancer will have 6 tickets held for them, families with 2 dancers will have 7 tickets held and so on. These held tickets can be picked up April 16th or after. There is a $40-$50 annual recital fee that MUST be paid by all families to participate in the recital. This helps pay for the rental of the hall, the stage, lights, programs, sound equipment etc. The recital fee will vary by number of dancers participating. Regardless of ticket use, this fee is applicable to all families with dance students. 
Additional tickets will sell for $12.00 each. All tickets are first come, first serve. Again ticket sales begin April 16th. 
The Cheer and Tumbling annual showcase will be held Sunday, May 20th at 2:00pm at Abraham Lincoln High School in the small gym. I will be emailing an information packet with leotard and T -shirt options in the next few days and Miss Kailey will also have paper copies available. This showcase is a casual, fun way for the kids to show off all the skills they have been working hard to achieve. Admission will be $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for students. One parent will be admitted free with each participant. We will have a selected leotard and T shirt available for purchase or tumblers may wear their own. Again packets will be coming home via email this coming week and in paper form after Easter.
There is no dance class March 26th through April 1st for our studio Spring/Easter break. Classes will resume on Monday, April 2nd. Please note this is different than schools.
We have been trying costumes on in classes alot this week. A few adjustments here and there and they will start coming home after Easter. I imagine April will fly by so please mark those calendars - 
March 26-April 1st - No classes - Spring break
April 16th - Recital tickets will go on sale and be available for pick up
May 14th - 17th - Studio pictures for tumbling, cheer, and recreational dance classes (during normal class times)
May 19th - Celebrate CB Parade, come walk with KDS!
May 20th - Cheer and Tumbling Showcase - 2:00pm ALHS
June 8th - Dance recital rehearsal  - All day - Schedule will follow
June 9th and 10th - Dance recital performances 1:00pm and 6:00pm each days
Thanks everyone - Keep working hard and have a great Easter!
Kerri Watts and Staff

Hello dance and tumbling families - 
Oh my goodness it is almost December... This year is just flying by! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and fall break. 
December can be a crazy month with church and school programs, changes in the weather (sickness), travelling, and general busy-ness... Please let us know if your child will be missing any classes. Reminder we are on holiday break Dec. 23-January 5th. Enjoy the time with friends and family.
Although we have been fortunate to have some amazing weather this season we all know the cold stuff is coming. The number one needed item at the open door mission are socks! SO... KDS will be having a sock drive in December! We will have tub set up for donations of new and barely used socks that will be donated to the Open Door Mission at the end of the month. All those who donate can grab a free candy treat for their efforts too! Let's fill the tub and help in giving back to our community and a great cause!
I have prepared just over 100 costume bills over the break, I will continue to prepare them and get them passed out. Watch for your child's in the next few weeks. They will be passed out in class and added to the online account system. If a student is absent they will be mailed out USPS. If you miss it or are not sure please check at the desk.
December 4-9th we will host another "Bring a Friend to Class Week". This time however there will be a few more restrictions as we are winding up our enrollment session and beginning to prepare for recital. Bring a Friend week in December will only apply to classes that currently have openings and friends in attendance will need to be the correct age for the class and not a sibling. We will again be offering a special treat for those dancers and tumblers who do bring a friend. The following classes are open to bring a friend week - 
All beginner combo classes (Monday, Tuesdays, and Thursday at 4:30, Tuesday at 10:00am, Saturday at 8:45am and Saturday at 9:00am)
Beginners Tap/Jazz class on Wednesday at 4:30 or Saturday at 9:30am
Junior Ballet on Monday at 4:30, Wednesday at 4:30, Thursday at 5:00 or Saturday at 11:00am
Junior Hip Hop on Mondays at 6:30 and Saturdays ta 11:30am.
Junior Tap and Jazz class on Wednesdays at 5:00 or Saturdays at 10:15am.
Intermediate Tap on Monday, Tuesday, or Thursday and Intermediate Jazz on Mondays
All tumbling classes
All boy hip hop class and Rough and Tumbles class on Mondays
We hope you will share your dance class with a friend! We appreciate the love and referrals!


December 16th - 27th will be Holiday Sweater and spirit week - Saturday through Thursday classes are asked to join in the spirit of the season by wearing a Christmas sweater, ugly or not, fun holiday socks, reindeer or elf headbands and hats, light earrings, you name it we welcome it. Just please be sure you can still dance as needed! We will have some fun holiday happening this last week before break! This will include some treats in the lobby for parents and siblings as well. We cannot wait to see everyone decked out in fun holiday gear!
Just a friendly reminder... lesson fees are due by the 15th of each month, late fees are applied on the 20th. If you paid the first trimester the next one is also due by December 15th. Please keep accounts up to date and avoid late fees.
We have added anew page to the KDS website, it's called Studio Buzz! This page will list all the latest happenings, needed dates, and shout outs happening at the studio. It is designed to be a quick reference for needed info. All newsletters will continue to be posted under the newsletter tab on the page as well. This page is just for a quick look, keep it bookmarked and be sure to refresh for the most up to date info!
We want to end with some well deserved shout outs!!
Congrats to Haley C. for being chosen September Dancer of the Month - She was nominated by Miss Rachel for her focus in pointe class!
Congrats to Lexi D. for being selected October Dancer of the Month - She was nominated for her growth in classes and overcoming her shyness and being brave in hip hop!
Congrats to the member of the Take Flight Competition team who competed at the DanZa competition in November - We had a clean sweep winning all our group divisions as well as winning the Zenith Award for highest score of the day. Congrats to Madison S, Eleanor S, and Ryann W, for being selected as DanZa Stars and invited to perform at the DanZa nationals event.
Dancers also attended the DanZa intensive the same weekend taking classes with the judges and other renown choreographers and teachers. Congrats to Alex W, Alli B, and Ryann W for receiving "I Did It" awards in classes for standing out and working hard! Miss Sabrina was also awarded!
Have a great month everyone and keep up all the good work! So excited with what we have planned for the coming recital, we will start preparing in January and we are eager to share and watch these dances come to life!
Kerri and Staff

 ​Kerri’s Dance Studio … 1851 Madison Ave. Suite 500 … 323-7396
www.kerrisdancestudio.com
 
Welcome to the 26th season of dance at Kerri’s Dance Studio. We are looking forward to a great year and lots of fun. For those of you who are new to KDS, a special welcome and we hope you enjoy your time with us. Of course to all my returning students, I hope you had a great summer and are ready to get back to dance. I am so excited to get back to class after 4 wonderful recitals – Thanks so much for a great weekend. We are so excited about all the new classes we are able to offer this season and looking forward to watching the kids learn and grow too. And of course, welcome back staff as well! We are saying goodbye this year to Miss Katie, Miss Eastin, and Miss Molly but we are excited to welcome a new teacher, Miss Ashley Cavanaugh will be joining us. Ashley grew up at KDS and is excited to be back teaching. While in college she did substitute now and then but we are glad to have her on board full time for Saturdays. Ashley has a degree in early childhood development and is ready to bring her passion for teaching and love of dance together at KDS. Also joining us AGAIN this year after a little hiatus to start her family is Miss Natasha Grimm Gregory. Natasha will be teaching classical ballet and is a retired prima ballerina with Ballet Nebraska, she too grew up at KDS studio until pursuing a ballet career full time at age 15. We are blessed to have her skills and wisdom shared with our students.
            The following are some of the guidelines and policies of the studio. Please be sure to read this section and discuss these things with your dancer/s, especially if you are planning on dropping your dancer off or carpooling.
            The Parking – Main studio (1851 Madison Ave.) There is ample parking RIGHT in front of the studio. We do ask that if your classes are before 6 you do not park directly in front of the businesses on either side of the studio. Also be sure to always watch for little ones entering and exiting the studio. At the Mall of the Bluffs location the best place to park is near the Planet Fitness location. Our bay is just inside those doors near the food court.
            The Dress Code – ALL STUDENTS must follow the proper dress code for class every week. The first time there is a violation of the dress code the student will be warned; a card may be sent home with the student. The next time there is a violation the dancer will be asked to sit out of class and a parents will be notified. All dancers in all classes should wear fitted tops that are made for dance and athletics. NO T-SHIRTS. Athletic tops do not say Old Navy or GAP. Please be sure your tops are designed for dance and athletics. The only pants allowed in class are those that are fitted from the thigh to the ankle and do not lie past the anklebone. If a dancer wears long and/or baggy pants to class they will be asked to take them off and borrow a pair of shorts for class. Shorts, skirts, leggings, and fitted capri pants are perfect for class. No denim please, not even stretch denim. Please use your best judgment when helping your student select dancewear, and if you are not sure, just ask. But do have another selection with you in case you are asked to change. All dancers in classical ballet MUST wear a leotard and tights. NO EXCEPTIONS. This is for the dancers’ safety and proper fit of the shoe as well as visuals for muscle development.
            The dress code is in place so that the staff and I can see posture and body alignment and do our jobs properly in instructing your student. This way you are getting the maximum benefit from your class time. Each individual teacher may have a certain part of the dress code they maintain differently, for example teacher may allow tennis shoes for hip hop. Teachers will address these issues the first weeks of class.
            Shoes – You will find a list of class times and the required shoes for that class in this packet. Shoes and proper dancewear can be purchased from the KDS “Madison Avenue” dance shop. The dance shop will be open Tues. Wed. and Thurs. starting Aug. 8th from 5pm to 8pm. The KDS dance shop carries all the shoes required at the studio in stock and orders take only 5-7 working days. We also have the latest dance fashions in stock so please come in and check us out. Please be aware that the dance shop carries some shoes that are not the “required” shoe for KDS. This is because we supply other studios dancers as well. We would be happy to help you with sizing and fit and show you are new inventory of fun dancewear.
In the Studio – Dance shoes only should be worn on the studio dance floors. Please no street shoes unless otherwise instructed. Cheer students may wear tennis shoes to class as well as all boy hip hop dancers, just be sure they are clean. There is no gum or candy allowed in the studio during classes. Students may not wear jewelry to class that may be distracting from instruction. Parents are expected to wait in the designated waiting areas and not enter the dance rooms without permission. Parents should refrain from speaking to students during class and should wait until the breaks for changing shoes or the end of class. This is so students can focus in class with minimal distractions. Siblings should only be in the waiting rooms when absolutely necessary and should be kept quiet and not permitted to enter the dance room. If the entryways become distracting screen doors or curtains will be closed and parent viewing will only be allowed the first lesson of each month. I apologize if this sounds harsh but it is the best way to ensure class is worthwhile and rewarding and in the end the students feel confident. There is no food or beverages allowed (other than water) anywhere in the studio. Please do not enter other dance rooms, even if they are not being used at the time.
            In the dancers lounge there are benches, coat hooks & shoe cubbies for dancers to store shoes and personal items during classes. No dance bags or coats should be left in the waiting area or brought into dance rooms. Please be sure to label your dancers shoes with their name or initials. Any shoes or other items left behind will be placed on the lost and found shelf for 4 weeks, after that they will be donated.
            Please do not leave valuables in the waiting area. Bring purses into the dance room and leave on the bench in your sight. KDS will not be responsible for any lost, missing or stolen items. It is best just to leave valuables at home!
            In climate weather – Kerri’s Dance Studio will follow the Council Bluffs School district in regards to cancelling due to weather conditions. If CBCSD cancels school for day, has early dismissal, or cancels evening activities due to weather, KDS will cancel classes. If you are unsure we will post on Face book, our website, and put a message on our voicemail by 3:00pm. Classes cancelled due to weather will be made up in the spring. A schedule for those make-up options will be passed out in classes. If you are living in a rural or outlying are or you are just uncomfortable coming into class due to weather, please just call the studio and let us know. We understand and do not want anyone to risk themselves or their kids just to get to class.
 
            *IMPORTANT  POLICY - Lesson and other fees – Lesson fees are due the first week of every month. You will be required to pay for lessons whether or not your student attends classes. If a student misses three lessons in a row their position in class will be made available to anyone on the waiting list. If you know your student will be absent from class please call and let us know. If your student will be absent three weeks or more please see your instructor to make arrangements for their class position to be held. If you quit and do not notify us, you will be charged for the lessons and possibly turned over to collection until some form of notification is received. If you would like to drop or add classes there is specific paperwork that needs to be filled out and is available upon request at the receptionists desk. You can pay online, through our online registration/parent portal or at our desk in the main location. The desk is open Mon.-Thurs. from 4:30 – 8:30pm and Saturdays from 8:45am – 11:45am.
Again this year is the pay in bulk discount. We are offering both a monthly fee as well as a bulk trimester fee. The trimester fee saves 10% off the total amount of lesson fees for 3 months. Please understand you cannot receive a trimester discount if you are already late in payment. Example the 2nd trimester (3 months) payment is due on or before Dec. 15th. If you come into pay after the 20th (5 day grace period) you cannot receive the discount. You will owe the full price for December as well as a late fee. You can pay January, February, and March in a trimester and receive the discount. Keep in mind being “off” in trimester months will mean you may have to pay a month or two at regular price. I hope everyone understand this. Please let me know if you have any questions. Also please keep in mind lesson fees are non refundable unless there is a medical problem. Once you have paid those fees your student is guaranteed that position in that class for that amount of time. Lesson fees can be transferred under most circumstances. To receive the trimester discount you must come into the studio and make your payment at the desk. You can pay monthly fees and other fees online but trimester discounts must be paid at the desk so our staff can enter the discount into the system. In the online system lesson fees will be posted 3 months at a time. If you are paying monthly they are not due until the 15th of each given month but you will see 3 months at a time on your account. Do not be alarmed, it is there so you can pay at your leisure and to help with trimester payments for those who choose this route.
            If your lesson fees have not been received by the 20th of the month at 4:00pm, a $10.00 late fee will be added to your account. NO EXCEPTIONS. All lesson fees and late charges will need to be paid in full before the spring recital in order to participate. Postdating a check does not exclude you from late fees. Monthly lesson fees that have still not been paid after the 20th of the next month will be subject to another $10.00 late fee.
            Your costume deposits are due by Aug. 31st or at the time of registration if after this date. Some of you may have paid these at the time of registration, if you are not sure you can look at your account online or give us an email or call. These fees are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE after October 15th. Request for refunds or transfers MUST be received in writing. All costume balances and an itemized costume bill will be passed out as soon as costumes are selected. The costume balances will be due by January 5th. A costume for your student will not be ordered without the balance paid in full. If the balance is received late you take a chance of your students costume will not arrive in time for the spring recital. Recital T-shirts will be included on this bill. Tights WILL NOT be included on this bill and it will be your responsibility to purchase the correct tights for each costume.
On April 16th recital fees will be due. After paying this fee you will receive your reserved tickets for the spring recital. The fee is $50.00 per family. Each family will receive 6 tickets to the show. Additional tickets will be available for purchase on April 16th as well for $10.00 each.
 
 
 
 
            Important dates to mark on the calendar –
August 31st – Costume deposits due
September 5th – Full session classes begin
Oct. 24th – 30th – Halloween party week. Kids ages 8 and under can dress up for classes. All ages will have parent observation and treats at the end of classes. We will also be measuring for costumes this week.
Oct. 31st – No dance classes – Please enjoy the time having fun with your family!
Nov. 20st – 26th – Thanksgiving/Fall break – No dance classes this week. Staff will be in studio working on costume ordering and recital preparation
Dec. 23rd – Jan. 5th– Christmas/New Years Break – No dance classes.
Jan. 5th – All costume balances due.
March 26th – April 1st – Easter/Spring break – No dance classes - Staff will be in the studio to prep for recital.
April 17th - Tickets for the recital will go on sale and be available for pick up.
May 14th – 18th – Tentative dates for studio pictures for all classes.
June 8th – Dance recital rehearsal – schedule will be published at a later date
June 9th & 10th – Dance recitals – More details on times to follow.
 
I realize that dance is not something for everyone. If you decide to no longer attend classes throughout the season, please call and let us know so the proper adjustments can be made. It is not only difficult for the instructor when a student quits unannounced; it his hard on the other students in his or her class. We encourage that once classes have begun learning their recital routines, students finish the season.
            In what class a student is placed is at the sole discretion of Kerri and staff. If your student is not satisfied with their class placement, please feel free to give us a call but in the end Kerri will make the final decision. It is important a class is not too difficult for a student, if so the student will almost always feel frustrated and behind. Sometimes a class may appear to be too easy. This may mean the instructor feels like a student needs to focus on the details of technique and placement before they advance to the next level. Each student is individual in their learning and advancement, so comparing one student to another may not always be the best way to analyze a students’ progress.
            Thanks again for registering for classes at Kerri’s Dance Studio. Again, I am looking forward to an incredible season. 

Kerri’s Dance Studio   …   1851 Madison Ave. Suite 500   …   (712) 323-7396
www.kerrisdancestudio.com
March 2017
Our season is moving along so fast, we are starting our last trimester this month and our show is getting very close. I hope your little dancers are getting excited! There is lots of info in this newsletter, please read and mark calendars carefully!
Reminder - The last trimester payment is due on or before March 15th. Monthly fees are due by this date as well. Please pay on time to avoid late fees.
Spring/Easter Break will be April 10-16th. (Holy Week). There will be no classes this week, enjoy time with your family.
 
Our Daddy/Daughter dance rehearsals are starting this month. All are welcome, we did have a sign up sheet but this does not mean you cannot still join us. Our March rehearsals will be held on Sat. March 11th and Sunday, March 19th at the main location.
11:30 – for ages 3-6 yrs - 12:00 – for ages 7-11 yrs
12:30 – for ages 12 and up
 
On March 11th at 10:00am at the main location, Miss Kerri will be offering a Dance Team audition clinic. This clinic will go over everything a dancer needs to know to audition for their high school dance team. Pom technique, kick line work, leaps, turns, everything! This clinic is open to all dancers from any school or studio grades 6 and up. Cost is $15 each.
 
March for our beginner combo classes will be Super Hero and Princess Power month. All dancers in these classes are encouraged to wear princess and/or super hero costumes all month. We will be doing fun themed activities and dances to bring out all our smallest dancers super powers!!
 
Drop in tumbling is back for March as well. Saturday March 18th we will have drop in tumbling at our Mall of the Bluffs location. Classes are $10 each or you can use your tumbling punch card.
11:30 – 12:00 – ages 3-5 years
12:00 – 12:45 – Ages 6-8 years
12:45 – 1:30 – Ages 9 and up
1:30 – Open for private lessons, please pre schedule.
 
Costumes are starting to arrive!! If your dancer receives a yellow costume card in class it means their costume is ready for pick up. Please bring the card to the desk to pick up the costume. All accounts must be current to pick up costumes. Once you have picked up the costume, please wait until you are home to open it and try it on. Contact the studio as soon as possible with any sizing issues or questions. Please understand you may need to make adjustments in straps, hems, etc. If you need help with these tasks we can also give you some names of seamstresses or sewing assistants. We will continue to pass out costume pictures as availability dates are confirmed. Pictures of costumes continue to be passed out and posted. Check at the desk if you need a copy. Be sure to plan accordingly for the proper tights and shoes for the June recitals and pictures.
Dance and tumbling pictures will be taken during regular class times May 15-19th at the main studio location. Saturday dancers will be scheduled during the week and an exact day and time list will be published soon. Pictures will be taken by Move Up Images/Image Society. They offer very affordable packages and online pre ordering as well. Lots more info will come home about pictures. We will do a group picture in EVERY costume, you may choose to do individuals and buddy pictures as well. Even if you choose not to purchase pictures we hope to get everyone there for group pictures!
 
We will post our recital T shirt list in both the main studio and mall location the first week of March. All dancers participating in the recital will receive a recital themed T shirt at the recital rehearsal. Please check the list posted for the correct spelling of your dancers’ name and list any corrections needed. Please also list the size of T shirt you would like for your dancer as well. This list will also be used to spell check the programs. This list will only remain up until April 1st. PLEASE check names and choose sizes by then! All dancers had the cost of their T shirt included on their costume bill. This is a great memento of the recital and the kids love them. They feature the theme for the season recital on the front and all the dancers from the studios names on the back. They are fun!!
 
For our tumbling and cheer students we will be holding a performance showcase on Saturday, May 13th at 3:00pm at Abraham Lincoln High school in the gym. Participation is not required but we wanted to give these great kids an opportunity to show off their skills and progress. Miss Kailey and Miss Molly will pass out packets with all the information regarding the showcase and apparel orders but please mark those calendars now!
 I am really looking forward to this event and seeing all the kids’ progress over the year.
 
The list of which show each dancer will be performing in will be published before the end of the month. I am down to the final touches and checks of this list and I appreciate your patience, it can be quite the undertaking. At this point we can no longer take any requests, for future reference all recital requests must be received before Jan. 1, if not sooner. Ideally at the time of registration.
 
When your dancer brings this list home please read it carefully and read each column. Dancers’ grades 3 and up may be scheduled to perform in multiple shows. Again our recitals and rehearsals are Fri. June 9th - Sunday, June 12th. Please block these days out and plan accordingly. Rehearsal on stage is required for all dancers to participate in the recital. I will have specific time lists for you as they date draws near.
 
In April (shooting for the 15th) we will begin passing out what we can recital packets. These will have rehearsal schedules, picture ordering info, recital video order info, competition team audition info, summer class schedules, fall registration info & so much more. Be on the look out for all this info!
 
Tickets for the dance recital will go on sale on April 15th at 8:30am. All dance families will have tickets reserved and held for them, families with 1 dancer will have 6 reserve tickets, and families with 2 dancers will receive 7 reserve tickets, and so on. Reserve tickets can be picked up starting April 15th and after the annual recital fee has been paid. This fee is $40 for single dancer families and $45.00 for families with multiple dancers. Recital fees are to cover the expense of the theater rental, programs, tickets, ushers, and more. These expenses can get upwards of $25,000 for our annual show so this fee helps split the costs among all families participating.
 
We also sell program ads and flowers to help alleviate the costs. If you are interested in purchasing an ad in our recital program please see Kerri or Mindi at the desk. We can get you all the ad size info and pricing.
 
We want to take this time to tell you how much we appreciate your business. Thank you for trusting your dance education for your child with us and please let us know if you have any questions or concerns about the upcoming dance recital. We want it to be stress free, fun, and all about the kids.

Trinity our December/January tumbler of the month! She was nominated by Miss Molly for her work ethic and determination! Trinity is 9 years old and in third grade, she has been in tumbling class for three years as well as ballet and hip hop class. Her favorite part of class is stretching and head stands! She is working hard toward her goals of mastering her 1 handed kart wheel and backbend . She wanted to let you all know she finally conquered her cartwheel, it's not perfect but a big improvement from when she started! Great job!!
​
Lillian and she is our December/January dancer of the month! Lillian is in the beginner tap/jazz class and was nominated by Miss Kerri because she stays focused in class, works hard, and treats her classmates with friendship and respect! Congrats Lillian! Keep up the good work!

Thanks everyone… keep practicing and keep up the great work!!
 
Miss Kerri and Staff!
 
 
 
 
 
 

December 2015

Just a few reminders in a very busy month!!
Lesson fees are due by the 15th of the month, late fees will be added to accounts on the 20th of the month. If you are paying trimesters, the 2nd trimester is due by the 15th as well. Please pay on time to avoid late fees.
 
Costume balance sheets/bills are coming home this month. The costume balances are due by January 10th, costumes will not be ordered if balances are not paid. Please pay on time to ensure your costume arrives in time for studio pictures and the recital. If you receive the bill and have any questions do not hesitate. These balances will be posted on your account and can also be paid online. If you DO NOT receive a bill by the 19th let us know asap so we can make you a new copy.
 
Pictures of costumes will be sent home with students as soon as all selections and orders are confirmed. These pictures will list the needed tights and shoes for each costume. All tights listed will be stocked in the studio shop. If you are unsure just check at the desk, we are happy to help. We will also post pictures in the studio for reference.
 
We are so excited so many of you had the chance to attend the free drop in tumbling classes held with our new instructor Josh last month. We will be holding drop in tumbling again in December on Saturday, Dec. 10th and 17th. Classes will be $8.00 each for current KDS students and $10 each for others. Cash or check only please. Tumbling punch cards are also available. See the desk for details. The schedule will be as follows –
Ages 3-5 years – 11:00am – 11:45am
Ages 6-8 years – 11:45am – 12:30pm
Ages 9 – 12 years – 12:30 – 1:15pm
Pre scheduled privates available 1:15-3pm
Check at the desk for availability
 
The senior members of the KDS competition team will be hosting kid’s holiday party on Sun. Dec. 11th from 12-5pm. This event is designed to give parents time to go shop or wrap while kids are entertained with dance, tumbling, crafts, games, snacks, and more. Cost is $20 per child for 1 hour or entire time. Take some time for yourself and support these hard working dancers. The big guys will also be stopping by for a visit and pictures. We will also have a secret wrapping station if you need some of your gifts wrapped from your day of shopping!
 
Please remember as it gets colder to please be sure your dancer is following dress code. I have seen a few jeans and some T shirts. L
 
There will be no dance classes for Christmas/New Year’s break from Dec. 19th - Jan. 1st. Classes will resume on January 2nd. You may see cars in the lot or staff at the studio but that is because we will be working on recital back drop, choreography, and costumes in preparation for the annual dance recital in June. Enjoy your time off with friends and family and get ready to start recital dances as we come back into classes.
 
We are very excited to announce we will be launching our new website on December 1st! This will have all the features of the old sight but with a new easier to use layout, a modern design, and updated pictures and references. For the month of December both the current site and the new site will be up and functioning while we transition but after this month all traffic will be pushed to the new site automatically. Be sure to check it out, special thanks to former KDS dancer Bri Harding for her amazing design work!
www.kerrisdancestudionew.com
 
Have a very happy holiday and enjoy the time with your children and families. We are so excited to get started on all the great dances we have planned for the recital after break. It will be another amazing show. Make sure you have the date on your 2017 calendars June 10th and 11th!
 
Kerri and Staff

October Tumbler of the Month
Abigail Nielsen
Abby was nominated my Miss Molly and Miss Haleigh for her positive attitude and smile! Here are some questions we asked Abby!
What is your favorite part of tumbling class? -My favorite part is getting to try new skills. What is your favorite tumbling skill to do? - I like to work on back tucks and round off back handspring.
What are your goals for your tumbling season? - Back tuck and aerial
As a parent what made you choose tumbling class for your daughter? - Abby has always had an interest in tumbling and seemed to have a real love for it. We chose tumbling for her so she could continue to learn and grow in her tumbling skills and learn to tumble safely.
Is there anything special you or Abby would like to add to your interview? - Thank you to Miss Molly, Miss Darbi and Miss Haleigh for all your help and support!
 
October Dancer of the Month
Katelyn Harms
Katelyn is tickled pink that she was chosen after being nominated by Miss Mali for her work ethic and performance skills. 
Out of tap, jazz, and ballet, her favorite is ballet.
Her goal is to be a better tap dancer. Her mom, Dara, says she put her in dance class because she danced as a young child and she has fond memories of dancing on stage and hoped she would enjoy it, as well.
The special thing she wanted to add about dance class is, "I love it!
 
November Tumbler of the Month
Caydence Johnson
This is Caydence and she is our November tumbler of the month! Caydence is in third grade and is 10 years old, her favorite thing about tumbling class is learning new skills. She hopes to add in dance lessons as she gets older. This is her second year of tumbling and she loves to practice back bend kick overs! Caydence wants to thank Miss Molly for her guidance and nomination!
 
November Dancer of the month
Maggie Hough
Maggie is 11 years old and in 6th grade at Underwood Middle School. Maggie’s favorite class at KDS is tap and her goals for the season are to land her double pirouette, gain overall confidence, and have fun!
Maggie started dance class at age 6 when she decided to give up soccer to try dance. She loves learning new skills and this year added tumbling class to her weekly lessons and she loves it. Maggie’s quote “I would like to thank all of my teachers I have had during dance at KDS, who help make dance fun every week and help me learn new things. I love dance so much, I always get in trouble from my mom for dancing in restaurants and Target – Thank You”
 
We are really enjoying the new dancer and tumbler of the month program and we hope you are too. Remember you too can nominate a student you see working hard, smiling, showing dedication and teamwork. Just drop us an email or stop by the desk!