NVJC offers programs for 6th grade, 7th grade, 8th grade and High School students. Instruction from each year builds on the year before.
New students are always welcome! We have found that teens prefer to be in a class with students their own age, so we welcome new students in any program level, even if they have not participated before.
6th grade Cotillion
The 6th grade program meets once a month for ninety minute classes where instruction is given in both etiquette and social dance. The season typically lasts from September to March. A season consists of five classes and ends with a Spring Ball.
We have chapters in Arlington, Chantilly, Fairfax, Fairfax Circle, Springfield, and Vienna. To see class meeting times and locations, please see our registration page.
Sixth grade etiquette instruction will cover many topics, including but not limited to:
- Introductions and Greetings
- Posture
- Escort Position
- Eye Contact
- Gratitude and Thank You Notes
- Showing Respect
- Seeing the ‘Good’ and Paying Compliments
- When to Rise
- Telephone and Electronic Etiquette
- Table Manners Basics
- Party Etiquette and Invitations
Sixth grade dance instruction will include basic steps in:
- Fox Trot
- Cha Cha
- Swing
- Waltz
7th Grade Cotillion
Similar to the 6th grade program, the 7th grade program meets once a month for ninety minute classes where instruction is given in both etiquette and social dance. The season typically lasts from September to March. A season consists of five classes and ends with a Spring Ball. The 7th grade program includes a multi-course instructional dinner with the Spring Ball.
We have chapters in Arlington, Chantilly, Fairfax, Fairfax Circle, Springfield, and Vienna. To see class meeting times and locations, please see our registration page.
Seventh grade etiquette instruction will cover many topics, including but not limited to:
- Review of etiquette taught in 6th grade
- Being Responsible with Increasing Independence
- Etiquette in Public
- First Impressions
- Friendship and Polite Conversation
- Becoming Aware–Reading the Room
- Entertainment Etiquette–Being a Guest and Being a Host
- Interviewing Well
- Dress Codes
- Fine Dining Etiquette
Seventh grade dance instruction will include more steps in:
- Fox Trot
- Cha Cha
- Swing
- Waltz
8th Grade Cotillion
The 8th grade programs at Springfield, Chantilly, Vienna and Arlington give 8th grade students the opportunity to practice and enjoy the skills that they are learning in real world social events designed with the older middle schooler in mind. We will continue to learn additional etiquette, social skills, and dance steps; as well as benefiting from more ‘hands on’ learning opportunities.
The season consists of three classes and three events to supplement class instruction. The events combine several 8th grade classes together.
Our three events are:
- Barbeque Fall Social
- Theatre Outing and Reception
- Grand Spring Ball
To see class meeting times and locations, please see our registration page.
High School Cotillion
High School Cotillion is open to all rising 9th-12th grade students.
The HS program is for the more mature student who is ready to practice etiquette in various social situations. High School students from the DC Metro area–Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC–meet together, which gives students an opportunity to practice etiquette with new friends. Events include such things as casual socials, restaurant dining, business luncheons, cultural outings, and formal dances. Each year of the High School program will be different so students may participate all four years.
The 2026-2027 season will consist of six different events. Events will take place about once a month from September to March (with the exception of December) meeting Fridays or Saturdays to accommodate busy high school student schedules.
Events will be held at different locations throughout the greater Washington, D.C. area.
For more information for this season, please see our registration page.
Northern Virginia Junior Cotillion 