Frequently Asked Questions
 
Q: Why choose Maple Academy of Dance?
At Maple Academy of Dance, our mission is to provide quality training in a safe, fun and positive environment. Our team of qualified and experienced instructors are dedicated to bringing out the best in our students. We understand that each child is an individual and we strive to ensure every student at our Academy can accomplish their goals. When you join Maple Academy of Dance, you are not just joining a studio; you are joining a family.
 
In addition, we are conveniently located in The Village of Vaughan Mills. Our 6500 square foot state-of-the-art facility features four large studios with professional sprung dance floors, high ceilings, air conditioning, spacious change rooms for boys and girls, and ample, well-lit parking for parents. Our facility is also monitored by mall security, which provides an added feeling of safety for our students and parents.
 
Q: What credentials do your teachers have?
All of our instructors are fully certified and hold certifications in DMA, BATD, RAD, CDTA, ISTD and OGF. Many have also obtained their Bachelor of Kinesiology, Bachelor of Physical Education, Bachelor of Education and Masters in Dance. Our instructors attend annual workshops and training to ensure our students are receiving the most current dance education. They are also trained in CPR and First Aid.
 
Q: Why is it important for your instructors to be experienced and certified?
Our main priority is the safety of our students. To obtain a certification to teach dance, instructors must complete both written and demonstrative exams in the subject areas they teach. This ensures instructors have knowledge of anatomy, proper body alignment, technique, appropriate progressions and injury prevention to provide students with quality training and maintain their safety.
 
Q: How long is the program?
Our recreational program runs from September until May (9 months).  
      
Q: How many students are in a class?
For recreational classes with students ages 2 ½ to 10 years old, we maintain a 5:1 student to teacher ratio. There is an 8:1 ratio for all other classes. (One certified instructor with one or two trained assistants)
 
Q: What are your payment options?
We offer three payment plans: 9 monthly payments, 2 payments (Sept & Jan; 5% discount applied), or 1 full payment (10% discount applied). We accept cash, cheque, Master Card, Visa and Interac debit cards. You may also set up an automatic payment service at anytime at the front desk. Multiple class rates and family discounts are also offered. Please ask the front desk when you register.
 
Q: Are there any other costs involved?
There is a one-time registration fee of $25.00. Students will need a bodysuit and/or dancewear specific to their class, tights and appropriate shoes. They will also require a costume for the year-end show. A deposit is due at the time of registration and the balance must be paid in March when the costumes arrive.
 
Q: Is there a dress code?
Yes we have a dress code. Students must wear specific dancewear for particular classes in navy blue, black and white (studio colours) and appropriate footwear.Information is provided at registration. Non-marking, indoor shoes ONLY are allowed in the studios. Soles must be clean and non-marking to protect the specialist dance floor. We believe it is important to enforce a dress code so that instructors are able to properly correct dancers to ensure improvement.
 
Q: Do parents get to watch during the class?
Each studio has a window for parents to view their child’s class. Teachers will also open the door on the last class of the month to show parents what they have been learning. This may be a few steps across the floor or a short combination the teacher has prepared.
 
Q: When and where is your year-end show?
All students participate in our exciting and professional year-end show in May. It is held at the Living Arts Centre in Mississauga.
 
Q: Will my child have to dance in more than one show?
Each recreational class only participates in one show. Rehearsals for our Year End Show Recital take place at the studio in the evenings and on weekends for your convenience!
 
Q: What if my child has allergies, requires medication or an EpiPen?   
At the time of registration, please notify the office staff of any medical needs of your child. We will ensure their teacher and classmates are informed of any restrictions and hazards. 
 
Q: I am interested in being a part of the Competitive program. How do I join?  
We offer award winning full-time competitive and part-time competitive dance programs.  Our annual auditions are held in June. Please call to inquire or to set up an audition time.
 
Q: Do you sell dance clothing?
We have a variety of logo clothing available for sale at the front desk. Look out for flash sales throughout the year! We do not sell dancewear, tights or footwear. You can purchase items online at the Dancewear Centre and your order will be delivered to your home. Please visit their website at www.dancewearcentre.com.
 
Q: Does Maple Academy of Dance run throughout the spring/summer?   
We offer an 8-week Spring Dance Program beginning in April and a 6-week Summer Program beginning in July for new and/or existing students. Students will learn technique, coordination, movement, and freedom of expression in a 45 minute high energy class. For more information contact our office staff.
 
Additionally, MAD offers a number of drop-in classes, summer camps and dance intensives from July-August. For more information contact our office or click on Programs on our website.