Tuition Assistance Program Application

Sonoma Conservatory of Dance’s Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is designed to make dance accessible to all, regardless of financial circumstances, by reducing tuition to an amount that families are able to afford. The program is supported through generous donors, grants, and fundraising events. Families receiving assistance play a vital role by volunteering, which helps keep SCD’s expenses low and ensures the program remains available to our students.

Applicant Information

Household & Financial Information

• If you are not receiving government assistance but are experiencing extenuating financial hardship, you may be eligible for temporary tuition assistance for one semester. If assistance is still needed after the semester ends, a new application must be submitted.

  Semester 1: August 31, 2026–January 31, 2027

  Semester 2: February 1–June 26, 2027

Program

Tuition Contribution

Registration

Program Agreement

By participating in the Tuition Assistance Program, student and family agree to the following:

• Maintain 90% or better attendance in all registered programs.

  • Students are expected to complete makeup classes for any absences in order to maintain attendance requirements.

• Demonstrate a sincere commitment and dedication to ballet by being an exemplary student at SCD in attitude and effort.

  • Exhibiting dedication, focus, and a strong work ethic.

  • Embodying SCD’s values through respect, responsibility, and a positive attitude.

  • Welcoming and including fellow students of all ages and levels.

  • Using respectful and appropriate language in all SCD spaces.

  • Following all dress code, classroom etiquette, and studio expectations.

• Make tuition payments as indicated above.

• Participate in volunteer opportunities to support SCD.

  • Student and family are expected to contribute through volunteer service on a regular basis, with the goal of supporting SCD at least once per month.

  • If unable to participate in a specific opportunity, families are expected to communicate their availability.

  • Examples of volunteer opportunities may include:

    • General studio tidying and organization.

    • Students 10 years and older serving as a Teacher’s Assistant in a Come Soar class.

    • Costume care (mending, washing, ironing).

    • Assisting with SCD events, performances, or other studio needs.

• Follow all SCD Policies & Procedures. (sonomadance.org/policies)

• Obtain prior permission from the Artistic Director, Patty O’Reilly, before participating in non-SCD ballet productions.

• Failure to meet all program requirements will result in termination of this agreement and the loss of awarded assistance.

Important Notes

• This application covers tuition only for the School Year and Program selected above.

• All application materials are confidential and reviewed by designated Sonoma Conservatory of Dance staff. Materials may also be reviewed by the Board of Directors.

Signature & Acknowledgement

By signing below, you confirm that you:

• Are unable to pay full tuition for the above student’s activities at SCD at this time;

• Understand and accept the terms outlined above;

• Certify that the information provided is true and complete; and

• Acknowledge that providing false or incomplete information may result in denial or termination of TAP assistance and repayment of assistance awarded based on inaccurate information.