Frequently Asked Questions
Vidya Dance Academy Admission (For New Parents and Adult Students)
1. What is the trial class policy?
At Vidya Dance Academy, we offer a trial month instead of a single class. This allows students to experience Bharatanatyam and helps both the student and the guru evaluate compatibility. The trial month fee is the same as the regular tuition fee. After this period, we assess the student's progress and discuss with parents whether the student is ready to continue based on the guru's evaluation.
2. Where is the studio located?
Chinese Performing Art Center, San Jose
Studio A
6148 Bollinger Road,
West San Jose, CA 95129
3. What is the dress code for classes?
Students are required to wear a white Kurti with white leggings (ankle-length) and a red dupatta. For adults, a white salwar with a red dupatta or half saree is appropriate. Hair should be neatly tied back, and students should avoid heavy jewelry.
Adult Students must wear white Kurti with white Leggins and red Dupatta. or Practice saree
4. Are there performances for beginners?
Yes, in addition to the annual day, we offer several performance opportunities throughout the year for all students, including beginners, when they are ready with the basic adavus.
5. How much practice is required at home?
Kids are encouraged to practice every day for 10-15 minutes to help develop their skills. Parents are welcome to guide their children, though prior dance experience is not necessary.
6. What is the policy for missed classes?
Missed classes cannot be deducted from tuition or prorated for the next month. However, students can take makeup classes if they provide at least 24-hour prior notice via email.
7. What if my child misses more than three classes?
If a student misses more than three classes continuously without informing us, they will be suspended until further notice and placed on the waiting list.
8. Do you provide audio tracks or videos for practice?
At VDA, we do not provide audio or video tracks. Instead, students are encouraged to learn how to recite the tala and internalize both rhythm and choreography. This helps improve not only their dance but also memory retention, a skill that benefits them in academics as well. By not depending on recordings, students strengthen their focus and cognitive abilities, making them more disciplined learners. This holistic approach helps them connect deeply with the art form and fosters personal growth.
9.How many students are in each batch?
Each batch typically consists of 10-12 students. This allows for personalized attention and a supportive group environment. Additionally, students benefit from observing the next level, as there is a slight overlap between batches. This structure encourages learning by watching more advanced peers, helping beginners absorb techniques and stay motivated. The opportunity to see more experienced students in action enhances both their learning process and overall understanding of the art form.
10. How do I stay updated with VDA?
You will be added to mailing list and whatsApp Groups for all updates. Also you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
11. is there a sibling discount ?
we do not offer a sibling discount at this time. The reason is that each student receives individual attention, guidance, and feedback in every class, which requires equal effort from the teacher regardless of whether they have siblings. Each child progresses at their own pace, and we ensure that every student gets the necessary support to develop their skills.
Vacation and Makeup Classes
1. Do I pay VDA fees when going on a vacation?
You have to continue to pay the VDA monthly fees, if you wish to secure your spot in the current batch/class. You can avail make-up classes for the missed classes either before or after your planned vacation. If you do wish to un-enroll, then the open spot will be issued to students in the wait-list, We cannot guarantee a spot back in the class/batch when you wish to return back and will also be subject to a $100 re-enrollment fees
2. Who is eligible for Make-up Classes?
Any Student who is unable to attend the regular scheduled class for any reason and has informed about the same through online Leave of absence google form (insert link) at least 24 hrs in advance of the missed class, can avail a Make-Up class
3. Any exceptions to the 24hr notice rule?
No, there are no exceptions to the rule however we do understand that sometimes there are unavoidable circumstances. 2 times in a year you can avail the special exception for a make-up class even if you have failed to inform 24-hour in advance. This is limited 2 per calendar year and there are no exceptions to the exception rule.
4. How many make-up classes can I avail in a year?
Make-up classes are restricted to 12 per calendar year.
5. What if I am going on vacation and will lose more than 12 classes?
Make-up classes are restricted to 12 unfortunately. You can un-enroll and re-enroll after you are back but that would incur re-registration fees of $100 and the batch/spot is subject to availability.
6. How do I avail these Make-up classes?
You can avail the make-up class on any alternate days of the week provide the below requirements are met
i. There is a class for your level on that day (ex: If you are in Beginner's batch you can avail make-up class on any day provided there is any beginner’s level class that day)
ii. You have email confirmation from the VDA Coordinator approving your make-up class request for that day. (Make up class request should be sent at least 2 days in advance using email: attendancetracker.vda@gmail.com.
7. How many make-up spots are available in a class?
Each class can accommodate unto 3 additional students who are availing make-up classes. The spots will allocated on first-come-first-serve basis.
8. Is there a expiry date for the make-up classes?
The make-up classes have to be availed with-in 3 months on the original missed class(es). For ex: if you missed class on 5th Feb 2025, you can avail a make-up class anytime before 5th May 2025.
9. How does one keep track of all the different Make-up classes eligibility and currently availed classes?
The entire book-keeping is currently managed by a VDA Coordinator. We are currently in the process of evaluating student management system that can automate the whole process. We hope to have an automated online process by the Fall of 2024.
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