Event Information

Who is eligible to participate in Teen Cotillion?

• The Teen Cotillion program is open to youth ages 14–17. Applicants must have a valid M-NCPPC Parks Direct account. Applications are open through December 1, 2026.

How are participants selected?

• The selection process includes two rounds. Applicants selected to advance from the first round will be invited to participate in a second-round recorded interview. All applicants will receive an email notifying them of their application determination.  Ensure you check the email used in the application to adhere to correspondence deadlines.
  
  Enrollment is limited to 30 participants: 15 Debutantes and 15 Beaux

When will the workshops take place?

• Workshops are held every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., beginning January 7, 2027, and continuing throughout the duration of the program held at Palmer Park Community Center.  

What is the attendance policy?

• The Teen Cotillion is a 16-week commitment that requires consistent attendance at Thursday workshops and dance rehearsals. We understand that emergencies and other obligations may arise; however, frequent absences can affect a participant’s progress and the preparation of their dance partner and Dancing Companion
  
  Participants are expected to attend all scheduled Thursday sessions, with no more than two absences permitted throughout the program. Families should carefully review their schedules before accepting a place. If a participant already has a recurring Thursday commitment, we encourage the family to consider whether they can fully participate before applying
  
  In the event of an emergency or unavoidable absence, parents or guardians should notify program staff as soon as possible. Additional attendance expectations will be outlined in the Parent Information Packet and signed commitment agreement.

What does the $150 participation fee cover?

• A non-refundable participation fee of $150 is required after a participant has been officially selected. The fee covers registration and the participant’s commitment to the Teen Cotillion program
  
  Formal attire, including dresses and accessories for Debutantes and tuxedos for Beaus, will be provided. Participants are responsible for purchasing their own appropriate shoes and undergarments
  
  Additional expenses may apply to certain activities and events. Families should also plan for the program’s individual fundraising goal and any applicable event or ticket costs.

Is fundraising required?

• Yes. Each Debutante and Beau has an individual fundraising goal of $1,800. Fundraising opportunities include souvenir book advertisements, sponsorships, donations, and Cotillion ticket sales. Eligible ticket sales count toward the participant’s individual fundraising goal.
  
  Participants will receive additional information about fundraising procedures and deadlines during the program. The participant who raises the most funds will receive special recognition through a fundraising award.

Who can serve as a Dancing Companion?

• A Dancing Companion is a required component of the Cotillion.  A Dancing Companion must be at least 21 years old and may be a parent, guardian, family member, or mentor who is willing and able to fulfill the program’s participation requirements.
  
  Dancing Companions are expected to attend designated Thursday dance rehearsals and practice assigned routines with their participant. The full schedule of required rehearsals will be provided at the Get Acquainted Social.
  
  Please select a companion who can make a consistent commitment to the program. If a participant needs assistance securing a Dancing Companion, please contact the Teen Cotillion Committee as soon as possible so that arrangements can be explored for a replacement volunteer.

What happens if a Dancing Companion cannot attend a rehearsal or is no longer available?

• We understand that emergencies and scheduling conflicts can occur. Dancing Companions should communicate any anticipated absences to program staff as soon as possible.
  
  If a Dancing Companion becomes unavailable for the remainder of the program, the participant or parent/guardian should contact the Teen Cotillion Committee promptly. The committee will make reasonable efforts to identify a substitute companion, subject to availability.

Are there costs associated with being a Dancing Companion?

• Yes. Dancing Companions are responsible for purchasing their own ticket to the Cotillion on April 25, 2027, as well as their required formal attire. Additional details regarding event expectations will be provided to families as planning progresses.

Is transportation provided to weekly workshops?

• Transportation to weekly Thursday workshops is available from select M-NCPPC community centers, based on participants’ transportation needs and available arrangements. Pick-up locations and schedules will be established after selected participants confirm whether transportation assistance is needed.  Transportation must be communicated prior to the start of the weekly workshops

• Families cannot select or change their assigned transportation location. Parents and guardians are responsible for ensuring that participants arrive at the designated pick-up location on time.  If a participant misses their scheduled transportation pick-up, the parent or guardian is responsible for transporting them to Palmer Park Community Center in time for the program.

• Transportation home after workshops is not provided. Parents or guardians must arrange prompt pick-up at Palmer Park Community Center when each session concludes. The facility closes promptly, and staff members are not permitted to transport participants in their personal vehicles. Families are encouraged to establish reliable pick-up arrangements in advance or coordinate carpool with other participants.

Is transportation provided for trips and special events?

• Transportation arrangements vary by activity and will be communicated on the program schedule. Depending on the event, transportation may be provided using M-NCPPC vehicles, charter buses, or parent/guardian drop-off and pick-up.
  
  Families are responsible for reviewing the arrangements and following the instructions provided for each trip or special event.

Is transportation provided to the Cotillion on April 25, 2027?

• No. Transportation to and from the Cotillion at Martin’s Crosswinds on Sunday, April 25, 2027, is the responsibility of each participant and their family. This event is separate from the transportation assistance offered for weekly workshops and certain program trips.

How will families receive program updates?

• Program announcements, schedule changes, deadlines, and important reminders will be communicated during weekly workshops and through the program’s GroupMe app.
  
  Parents/guardians, participants, and Dancing Companions are expected to join the designated GroupMe group to remain informed. Families should also ensure their contact information in Parks Direct remains current.
  
  For questions or concerns, please email teencotillion@pgparks.com.

Will food be provided?

• Yes. Dinner will be provided for participants each Thursday evening from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Participants with dietary restrictions should notify staff in advance to ensure accommodations can be made.

How do I request food allergy accommodations or other reasonable accommodations?

• If a participant has dietary restrictions, we will collect this information during the Get Acquainted Social.  Participants and parents are responsible for notifying us about food allergies, dietary restrictions, accessibility needs, or other accommodation requests. Early notification allows program staff time to review requests and discuss available arrangements.

How will participants and families receive information about the Cotillion on April 25, 2027?

• The Cotillion will take place on Sunday, April 25, 2027, at Martin’s Crosswinds. Detailed information regarding schedules, tickets, attire, rehearsals, and event procedures will be communicated through weekly workshop announcements and GroupMe as arrangements are finalized.

What is the dress code for workshops?

• Unless otherwise stated, workshop attire is casual. However, some workshops may require business or formal attire. Participants will also be required to bring dress shoes or heels for designated dance rehearsals and will be notified in advance when needed.