2023 RETIREMENT

I have had the privilege of 10 wonderful years of offering The Diablo Valley Cotillion to middle school students, and have welcomed several thousand students into the program. In addition, I have enjoyed teaching etiquette classes at schools, camps, country clubs, scout meetings, charities, clubs, and The Danville Recreation Department. In March 2023, I retired from offering classes. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to work with incredible students and parent volunteers.

The Diablo Valley Cotillion is a series of dance classes offered to seventh and eighth grade students. The purpose is to provide a fun, community event which brings together young men and young women from various middle schools in the East Bay to learn dance basics and social etiquette in a party atmosphere. Why learn the fox trot in this day and age? Basic dance steps prepare young people for a variety of social situations and partner dancing is an avenue to practice manners and social skills with each other.

Historically, a cotillion was an event to present young women to society. Modern cotillion is an event that teaches teens the art of attending and conducting themselves in social situations. Diablo Valley Cotillion members receive instruction in Ballroom, Swing, Disco, Latin, and Line dances. In addition to dance technique, an emphasis is placed on etiquette and social graces. Throughout the dance series, cotillion members are guided to greet chaperones in a receiving line, and practice eye contact, conversation skills, manners, and respect with their various dance partners.

Our popular dance instructor and his team create an atmosphere which encourages young men and young women to be comfortable together, make new friends, and have fun. Motivating teens is his specialty! Confidence in social situations is of high importance to this age group. When young people learn social etiquette, it frees them from worrying about making mistakes. The goal at Diablo Valley Cotillion is to develop in young people a high standard of confidence and individual excellence.