Every Student.
At the heart of what we do, we have the firm belief that: no child should ever be unable to participate in the School of the Arts (SOTA) program due to financial constraints. The Every Student Scholarship Program exists to make this belief a reality.
Through the generosity of our incredible donors, we ensure that every young dancer, who otherwise couldn’t, has the opportunity to experience the joy of dancing for the Lord, regardless of their financial situation. These scholarships open the door to a transformative journey—one where students grow not only in their technical skills but also in their faith, confidence, and sense of belonging.
Scholarship Process
Welcome to the First Position Dance & Discipleship School of the Arts (SOTA) Every Student Scholarship Program. We are excited to offer a scholarships to dedicated and passionate dancers who are eager to grow both in their art and their faith. The following information includes the eligibility criteria, the application process, and all necessary details to apply for the Scholarships for the Dance Year.
Scholarship Information
Scholarship Overview
Our goal is to work with families to find a solution that fits their budget. We offer a range of scholarship options, including partial scholarships, which allow families to contribute an amount they feel comfortable with on a monthly basis. Together, we’ll discuss and determine a payment plan that works for you, ensuring that your child can enjoy the full SOTA experience without added stress.
If your financial situation makes it difficult to contribute at all, we also offer full-tuition scholarships as a final option. Our top priority is making sure every child has the chance to grow, learn, and shine in their passion for dance and worship. This does not include the membership fee which is $75 and costume deposit which is $50. These however can be negotiated to monthly payments.
This program is designed for dancers who not only desire to advance their dance technique but also to develop spiritually and become servant-leaders in their community.
Our program includes:
Dance training in ballet, contemporary, jazz, and more.
Discipleship training focused on character development, leadership, and spiritual growth.
Mentorship opportunities with experienced dance instructors and community leaders.
Performance opportunities to participate in our Spring Performance at the end of the dance season
Eligibility Critera
To qualify for our Tuition Scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement: Applicants must be between the ages of 3-18.
Commitment: Applicants must be willing to fully commit to the entire year of the program, including dance classes, rehearsals, performances, and discipleship sessions.
Financial Need: Preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate a financial need for the scholarship. Please be aware that even for our full tuition scholarship, families are responsible for the membership fee and costume deposit. Which can be negotiated and broke down to monthly so the cost is easily manageable.
Character and Faith: Applicants must exhibit strong character, including honesty, humility, responsibility, and a desire to grow spiritually.
Recommendation: Applicants must provide a letter of recommendation—from a church leader, mentor or close friend—attesting to their character as a their family and the students desire to be a part of our program.
Application Process
Step 1: Complete the Application Form
Fill out the attached application form. Make sure to provide accurate and complete information.
Step 2: Provide A Letter of Recommendation
Submit a letter of recommendation—one from a church leader, mentor or close friend. The letter should highlight your character, work ethic, and dedication to dance and faith.
Step 3: Submit Financial Need Information
Provide information regarding your financial situation. This is simply just letting us know why you believe that you would be eligible for a scholarship.
Step 5: Interview
If you meet the eligibility criteria and your application is shortlisted, you will be invited for an in-person or virtual interview with a member of the Board of Directors. During the interview, you will be asked about your goals, your faith walk, and your commitment to the program. All our students in SOTA regardless if they are there on scholarship or not, conduct a interview/onboarding meeting.
Step 6: Notification
Applicants will be notified of the scholarship decision as soon as possible. All applicants, whether awarded or not, will receive feedback and encouragement.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: January 31st 2025
Interview Date: Please schedule this right away!
Program Start Date: January 6th 2025
Every Student Scholarship Application
Please fill out the following application, and our Executive Director will be in contact to schedule your interview. We are excited to see how the Lord will use not only your family but also First Position to make an impact!
Application deadline is January 31st 2025 - our season closes on this date and will not reopen until June 1st for the 2025-2026 season.
Classes begin January 6th, so we suggest getting this application sent in right away.