Ridgecrest Cotillion 2026-2027

 

Welcome to Ridgecrest Cotillion

 

Dear Parents,

Thank you so much for your interest in Ridgecrest Cotillion. We are truly excited to welcome new and returning families for another wonderful year.

Before completing your registration, we kindly ask that you take a few minutes to carefully read through the information below. The form is a little longer than most, but it includes important details about the program, membership process, schedules, expectations, and traditions that help make Cotillion such a special experience for our students. Most families complete everything in about 3 to 5 minutes.

We appreciate your time, your support, and your trust in allowing us to be part of your child’s middle school journey.

Warmly,

Rebecca Binny
Cotillion Coordinator
ridgecrestcotillion@gmail.com

 

Where confidence, character,
and connection begin

Ridgecrest Cotillion is a long-standing Peninsula tradition that gives middle school students the opportunity to build confidence, friendships, social skills, and lasting memories in a fun and welcoming environment. Throughout the year, students attend eight themed dances by grade level, including semi formal, formal, and costume events with music, decorations, refreshments, games, and dancing. Costumes are always optional. Students are introduced to basic ballroom dance instruction while also learning important social skills such as kindness, respect, confidence, conversation, and etiquette. The season concludes with a special Parent or Adult and Child Dance, where each student may invite one special adult guest to share in the experience. For many students, Cotillion becomes one of the most memorable parts of middle school.

 

 

Meet Our Cotillion Master, Mr. Bobby Burgess

Mr. Bobby Burgess began his professional career as one of the original Mouseketeers on Disney’s Mickey Mouse Club and later spent twenty one seasons as part of the ballroom dance team on The Lawrence Welk Show.

For more than twenty years, Mr. Burgess has led Cotillion programs for RIS, MIS, PVIS, and Palos Verdes Assembly. Together with his staff, he creates an encouraging environment where students feel comfortable, included, and supported while learning dance, etiquette, and social confidence.

Cotillion is also a wonderful place for students to make new friends, step outside their comfort zones, and simply have fun.

As Mr. Burgess often says,

“We want everyone to feel comfortable in social situations while growing in confidence and self esteem.”

 

Membership Information

Ridgecrest students are invited to apply for membership to the Ridgecrest Cotillion, a popular middle school activity and a tradition on the Peninsula. Each year, there are eight semi-formal, formal or costume dances by grade with music, decorations and refreshments. Costumes are optional. Instruction is provided in basic ballroom dance steps. Students also receive an education in social graces. There are also two dances where moms and sons, or fathers and daughters will partake in together.

Cotillion enrollment is limited in order to maintain a safe and balanced experience for all students. Volunteers from Palos Verdes Assembly generously donate their time to support the program and help maintain balanced attendance ratios.

Because space is limited, we strongly encourage families to register early. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and invitations are sent out in batches throughout the enrollment period.

Please note that not every applicant will receive an invitation once capacity has been reached. We kindly ask for your patience during the placement process, as invitation delivery dates may vary.

Selected families will receive additional details and payment instructions before the school year begins.

 

Registration Fee

The annual registration fee is $185 per student and is due no later than the first dance of the season.

Payments may be made by check payable to Ridgecrest Intermediate Cotillion or online through MemberPlanet. Additional payment details will be emailed to accepted members before the start of the school year.

 

Palos Verdes Assembly

Cotillion continues into high school through Palos Verdes Assembly, a respected social and philanthropic organization that encourages leadership, friendship, confidence, and community involvement.

Participation and attendance in Cotillion over a three year period are part of the eligibility requirements for Palos Verdes Assembly membership.

 

           Questions? Contact Ridgecrest Cotillion Coordinator 2026/2027.

Rebecca Binny
Email: ridgecrestcotillion@gmail.com

Parent Volunteer Information

Ridgecrest Cotillion is proudly run entirely by dedicated parent volunteers, both through our Cotillion Board and through the many families who volunteer throughout the year at individual dances and events.

We warmly welcome parent volunteers and chaperones for each grade level dance. No experience is needed, and guidance will always be provided so you feel comfortable and prepared in your role. Parent volunteers play an important part in helping each event run smoothly while creating a fun, safe, and memorable experience for our students.

A SignUp Genius will be shared before the first dance, and parent participation is always greatly appreciated.

We also encourage parents who would like to become more involved to consider joining the Cotillion Board. It is a wonderful way to support the program, meet other families, and help continue this special tradition for our students.

Parents interested in learning more about volunteer or board opportunities are welcome to contact the Cotillion Coordinator at: ridgecrestcotillion@gmail.com

Cotillion Dance Schedule

All dances are held on either Thursday or Friday evenings throughout the school year. Students are encouraged to attend regularly, as participation and attendance are considered as part of the acceptance process for Palos Verdes Assembly. 

SIXTH GRADE	SEVENTH/EIGHT GRADE
Drop off 4.30pm 4:45pm-6:30pm	Drop off 6.45pm 7:00pm-8.30pm

 

IMPORTANT 2026/2027 Dates
*Dates subject to change

DATE	EVENT	THEME	ATTIRE
9.10.2026	Mandatory Orientation for ALL 6th & new members	RIS MPR (Auditorium)	N/A
9.25.2026	Fall Frolic	Get Acquainted Dance	Semi-Formal
10.23.2026	Monster Masquerade	Halloween Dance Costume Contest	Theme Attire or Semi-Formal
11.19.2026	The Roaring 20's	Charleston Contest	Semi-Formal with 1920s flair
12.17.2026	Winter Wonderland	Winter Formal & Annual Toy Drive	Formal or Semi-Formal
1.28.2027	Rodeo Roundup	Country Western Dance and Costume Contest	Theme Attire or Semi-Formal
2.26.2027	Cupid Caper: Tribute to Valentine's Day	Swing Contest & Father/Daughter Dance	Semi-Formal with a touch of red
3.12.2027	Hawaiian Holiday	Limbo Contest	Resort Wear or Semi-Formal
4.23.2027	The Prom "Spring Cruise"	Waltz Contest & Mother/Son Dance	Black Tie Attire

Cotillion Code of Participation

The Ridgecrest Cotillion Board is committed to creating a fun, respectful, and welcoming environment for all students and families. The following participation guidelines help ensure that every dance is a positive experience for everyone involved. We appreciate the cooperation and support of both students and parents throughout the year.

STUDENTS

• Students are expected to show kindness, respect, good manners, and cooperation at all times. Listening to instructors and chaperones helps create a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
• To help students stay engaged and present during the dances, electronics and gum are not permitted.
• Dances begin promptly, and students are expected to arrive on time. Regular attendance is encouraged throughout the season. Missing more than 20 minutes of a dance will be considered an absence.
• If a student must miss a dance, the student, not the parent, is asked to mail a handwritten letter of regret to their Grade Level Attendance Chair. This tradition encourages responsibility and accountability. Letters should be received no later than the next Cotillion dance. For the final dance of the season, letters must be received by the end of May.

PARENTS

• Cotillion is made possible through the support of our parent volunteers, and we are always grateful for families who are willing to help. Volunteer opportunities may include chaperoning dances, assisting with setup or cleanup, supporting special events, helping with the December toy drive, or assisting with seasonal activities such as the Spring photo booth.
• We also ask parents to help ensure students arrive dressed appropriately according to the dress guidelines below.
• Parents may be contacted if a student becomes ill, displays inappropriate behavior, or does not follow the dress guidelines. In situations involving repeated behavioral concerns or serious misconduct, the Cotillion Board reserves the right to involve school administration and may revoke Cotillion membership if necessary.
• For student safety, participants may only leave a dance accompanied by a parent or authorized chaperone. Students must be picked up promptly at the conclusion of each dance in front of the MPR. Students are not permitted to walk home from Cotillion.

GIRLS’ DRESS GUIDELINES

Girls should wear dresses that are tasteful, comfortable, and appropriate for dancing. Dresses should be no shorter than one inch above the knee and should not be strapless, backless, overly revealing, or expose the midriff or undergarments.

White gloves and dress shoes with a back strap are required. Heel height should not exceed three inches for safety while dancing. Open back shoes can become unsafe during ballroom instruction.

If needed, students may be asked to wear a cover up to ensure dress guidelines are met.

Costume Dances:
Students are encouraged to dress according to the event theme while still following the general dress guidelines. Denim and athletic shoes are permitted during costume dances only. Cut off clothing, shorts, and flip flops are not permitted.

BOYS’ DRESS GUIDELINES

Boys should wear a suit or sports coat with dress slacks and a tucked in dress shirt. A bow tie or necktie is required, and clip on ties are welcome. Boys should also wear dark socks and dress shoes.

Athletic shoes and visible undergarments are not permitted during standard dances.

Costume Dances:
For themed events, boys may wear collared or sports shirts without a tie, along with long pants that match the theme. Denim and athletic shoes are permitted during costume dances only. Cut off clothing, shorts, and flip flops are not permitted.

DISMISSAL POLICY

The Cotillion Board reserves the right to dismiss any student whose behavior repeatedly disrupts instruction, affects the experience of others, or does not comply with program expectations, including dress guidelines.

BOOSTER CLUB REGISTRATION REQUIREMENT

Ridgecrest Cotillion falls under RIS Booster Club. There is a separate mandatory Booster Club fee of $75.00 which must be paid in addition to the Cotillion membership fee of $185.00. You will also need to fill out a separate Booster Club Membership form. Information and payment for both Booster Club and Cotillion will be in the invitation. You can also learn more about RIS Booster Club here.

The $75.00 Booster membership fee is per family and will go towards any other Booster related sports or clubs throughout the year. Each club or sport has a separate additional fee.

 

Refunds: Once a student in accepted into Cotillion, there are no refunds.

 

Refreshments and Emergency Care

The refreshments served during Cotillion are intended to help teach students proper etiquette, social dining manners, and respectful behavior in social settings. The snack provided is light in nature and is not intended to replace a meal. Participation is optional, and students are never required to eat.

We make every effort to offer refreshments that most students can enjoy. However, due to the variety and severity of food allergies, we may not always be able to accommodate every dietary restriction. Families of students with severe allergies are welcome to send a separate snack for their child to enjoy during the event.

In the event of a medical emergency, and if a parent or guardian cannot be reached, permission is granted for emergency medical care to be provided for my child should serious illness or injury occur during Cotillion activities.

Glove Information

All girls participating in Cotillion are required to wear white gloves during each dance.

Complimentary gloves will be provided to all 6th grade students, as well as any 7th or 8th grade students who are new to Cotillion this year.

Returning students may either reuse their gloves from the previous year or purchase a new pair for $5.00. Students who would like an extra pair of gloves may also purchase additional pairs for $5.00 cash during any Cotillion dance.

Gloves for 6th grade students and all new 7th and 8th grade members will be distributed during the Parent and Student Orientation at the beginning of the school year.

Waiver and Release of Liability

The undersigned understands that participation in Ridgecrest Cotillion is voluntary and is not part of the regular school curriculum or school sponsored program.

Participation in Cotillion activities may involve certain risks, including the possibility of injury arising from dancing, physical activity, transportation, interactions with other participants, or conditions at the event location.

By participating, students and parents acknowledge and accept these inherent risks.

In the event of an emergency, and if a parent or guardian cannot be reached, the undersigned authorizes Ridgecrest Cotillion, its board members, instructors, volunteers, and representatives to obtain emergency medical treatment for the participant at the sole expense of the parent or guardian.

By signing below, the participant and parent or guardian acknowledge and agree to the following:

Participation in Ridgecrest Cotillion activities is voluntary, and participants may choose not to participate if they believe conditions are unsafe. 

Participation may involve risks of injury, including serious injury, permanent disability, or other unforeseen circumstances that may arise during Cotillion events and activities.

The participant and parent or guardian voluntarily assume responsibility for any risks associated with participation in Cotillion activities.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, the participant and parent or guardian release and hold harmless Ridgecrest Cotillion, its board members, instructors, volunteers, affiliates, event sponsors, and facility owners from liability for injuries, damages, losses, or claims arising from participation in Cotillion activities, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

The participant and parent or guardian agree to indemnify and hold harmless Ridgecrest Cotillion, its board members, instructors, volunteers, and affiliates from claims or liabilities arising from the participant’s actions during Cotillion activities.

The participant and parent or guardian understand the nature of the activities involved and voluntarily choose to participate despite the potential risks.

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have carefully read and understood this Waiver and Release of Liability and agree to its terms voluntarily.

Student participant and all parents or legal guardians, where applicable, must sign this form.

Adult Volunteer and Participant Waiver and Release of Liability

This form must be completed by any adult participating in Ridgecrest Cotillion activities, including parent volunteers, chaperones, Cotillion Board members, and adults attending the Parent/Adult and Child Dance.

I, hereafter referred to as the “undersigned,” acknowledge that participation in Ridgecrest Cotillion activities is voluntary and is not part of the regular school program.

I understand that participation in Cotillion related activities may involve certain risks, including the possibility of injury arising from dancing, physical activity, event participation, interactions with others, or conditions at the event location. I voluntarily accept and assume these risks associated with participation.

In the event of an emergency, and if emergency contact information cannot be reached, I authorize Ridgecrest Cotillion, its board members, instructors, volunteers, and representatives to obtain emergency medical treatment on my behalf at my own expense.

By signing below, I acknowledge and agree to the following:

• I understand that I have the right to inspect the facilities and conditions of participation and may decline participation if I believe any condition is unsafe.
• I acknowledge that participation in Cotillion activities may involve risks of injury, including serious injury, permanent disability, or other unforeseen circumstances.
• I voluntarily assume responsibility for all risks associated with participation in Ridgecrest Cotillion activities.
• To the fullest extent permitted by law, I release and hold harmless Ridgecrest Cotillion, its board members, instructors, volunteers, affiliates, sponsoring organizations, and facility owners from liability for injuries, damages, losses, or claims arising from participation in Cotillion activities, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.
• I agree to indemnify and hold harmless Ridgecrest Cotillion, its board members, instructors, volunteers, and affiliates from claims or liabilities arising from my participation in Cotillion activities.
• I understand the nature of the activities involved and voluntarily choose to participate despite the potential risks.

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have carefully read and understood this Waiver and Release of Liability and agree to its terms voluntarily.

Any adult participating in Cotillion activities, including volunteers and Parent/Adult and Child Dance participants, must complete and sign this form. A separate form is required for each adult participant.