Frequently Asked
Questions
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- What is the class schedule?
The Syracuse class schedule accommodates year-round dance lessons twice weekly, every Tuesday and Friday evening. The Rome location has dance class every Wednesday evening. A monthly school newsletter will be emailed to everyone on our email list. If you're not on our list, take a moment and click here to subscribe. The newsletter is also available on the Newsletter page of this website; which will let you know the exact dates of classes. The class schedule is also posted on the Class Schedule page of this website.
At the Syracuse location, Figure classes are held on Tuesday evenings in 2 class sessions. The 5:30pm to 6:30pm session is for dancers under 12, and 6:15pm to 8:15pm is for dancers 12 & over. Solo classes are on Friday evenings in 2 class sessions. The 5:30pm to 6:30pm session is for dancers under 12, and 6:30pm to 8:30pm is for dancers 12 & over.
At the Rome location, classes are held on Wednesday evenings, in 2 class sessions. The 5:30pm to 6:30pm session is for dancers under 12, and 6:15pm to 8:15pm is for dancers 12 & over.
Although the dancers are normally placed in a class within their age group, they may be place in the other age group; depending upon their skill level.
- Can I watch the class?
Although instinct dictates curiosity, parents (etc.) are not permitted to watch the class. It is not meant to offend, but Pattie's time is spent focusing on the children, and it is imperative that she have their undivided attention. The same is true with asking of questions.
- Who will answer my questions?
Please feel free to direct your questions to any of the parents who have been with the school for a lengthy period, as they tend to be wells of wisdom. If you have any questions that you feel only Pattie can answer, please try to see her in-between classes or after class has ended; as her time is spent teaching the children. If Pattie has any concerns, you can be rest assured that she will seek you out.
- What do I do while class is in session?
While the children dance, parents can spend time with in the designated area. This is a great opportunity to get to know one another, learn important information, as well as to kick back and relax a little. All are always welcome, just pull up a chair and relax.
- What are the best ways to stay informed?
Here at the Butler-Sheehan Academy, we have a number of resources to keep our members informed about all of the things going on:
1) First and foremost, ask. Your school coordinator is the best person to go to, when you have questions; but feel free to ask Pattie or any of the other parents.
2) Text message alerts are a quick way to get "time sensitive" information distributed, such as class schedule changes and cancelations; as well as reminders of upcoming events. Take a moment and subscribe to receive text alerts on your cell phone.
Syracuse: Text @bssyracsuse to 81010
Rome: Text @bsrome to 81010
3) Email messages are the primary method we use to distribute important information about upcoming events, meeting, as well as class schedule changes and cancelations. Take a moment, and click here to subscribe to our email list.
4) A monthly newsletter is emailed to all members who subscribe to our email list. The monthly newsletter is also posted on the Newsletter page of our website.
5) Our Facebook page is a great place to see photos and comments for our friends and members. Text alerts are also posted there. If you're a Facebook member, take a moment and "like" our page.
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- Does the school have performances?
As the children progress, Pattie may include them in shows which she choreographs (ie., Syracuse Irish Festival, St. Patrick's Irish Festival the Turning Stone Casino, etc.). Dance-outs (informal performances) are another chance for the children to perform (ie., senior living communities, malls, NYS Fair, etc.), these are usually open to all dancers. Over the years, it has become a "tradition" among the different dance schools to perform a number of dance outs in the weeks prior to and after St. Patrick's Day. Another tradition is the St. Patrick's Day Parade held in downtown Syracuse and Utica, in which the kids dance their way down the Street. And, dependant upon weather and circumstances, you may find parents skipping as well!!
- Is there a schedule for performances?
Everyone will be notified of the dance schedule and should speak to your School Coordinator to advise whether your child will be able to perform. You can also find a schedule of events on our Events Calendar page. If your child is nervous, there isn't a kinder audience than the residents at senior living communities. There, every child is applauded no matter what their skill levels might be. Your School Coordinator is in charge of the dance-outs, and will be more than happy to provide any information regarding the different performances. Again, read your monthly newsletter and ask your School Coordinator if you are unsure of whether your child is performing or would like to perform.
- Is there a school uniform, or costume?
We have school costumes, jumpers for the beginner girls, black slacks and shirts with vests for the boys, and dresses for the older girls. As the girls progress by level and age, they will be moved into the school dress (as they become available). The policy for out-of-pocket cost varies; please see your school coordinator for more information. We ask that you care for these costumes as you would with any delicate piece of clothing. Remember, you are responsible for maintaining the condition of your child's outfit.
We currently have a parent who is in charge of used dresses/costumes. Please see Jennifer Conover at the Syracuse location or Jennifer Conover at the Rome location if you have any questions.
- How does the school raise fund money?
Throughout the year, the school will hold various fundraisers. We are fortunate to have a group of hard working parents and children who have been successful in raising a great deal of money for our school in the past. You are encouraged to participate (though it is purely by choice), as this money is used for many things which include: school dresses, parties, Christmas gifts for the children, and any further funding as needed to keep our school the success that it is. It is also another step in forming friendships as we work side by side. A last note, should anyone have a creative idea for fundraising, all thoughts are welcome and appreciated!
- Any final thoughts?
Although there are many Irish Dance schools in our area (Rince Na Sonas, Johnston, McDonald, Francis, Roisin, Drumcliffe, Crane, Scoil Rince Branwen), at the Butler-Sheehan Academy, we pride ourselves on having a wonderful instructor, enthusiastic/friendly children, fun loving parents...and we always have room for more!
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