1. How do I register for classes?
If you are a new student you can register online at our website mjpaa.com/classes. If you prefer to register in person, stop by the Academy during business hours. We look forward to meeting you and we want to thank you for giving us the opportunity to offer your child an experience they will fondly remember for life!
2. Does MJPAA offer a referral program?
For each student referred you will receive a $25.00 credit towards your tuition. In order for this offer to be valid, both students must remain enrolled for a minimum of 4 months.
3. How old do children need to be to start classes?
The Academy classes start with Movin & Groovin at age 18 months and continue through adults.
4. Are there beginner classes for all ages?
Yes, the Academy welcomes beginners and offers classes for all ages.
5. Do you offer private lessons?
Yes, private lessons are available in all disciplines instructed at the Academy. You can call the Academy Registrar to receive availability for private lessons.
6. When do classes Begin & End?
The Year Long session begins in August and ends in June. The summer session runs from mid-June to mid-August. Seasonal sessions run in 6 to 12 week increments. Please contact the Academy for more detailed information.
7. How long are classes?
Class length can range from 30 minutes to 1 ½ hours depending on subject and level.
8. How many students are in each class?
Class size is based on the type of class, student age and studio size. Our children’s division adheres to a strict student teacher ratio.
9. Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we offer trial classes. A brief form signed by legal guardian is required prior to attending a trial class.
10. Is there is Registration/Membership Fee?
Yes, for year long classes there is a registration/membership fee. This annual fee affords members discounts throughout the year and early bird opportunities.
11. How much are classes?
Tuition varies according to how many hours a student takes per week. Classes start as low as $45.00 a month for a 30 minute class. Prices are listed on the website next to each class. Multi class and sibling discounts are available and applied once your registration has been submitted. Please contact the Academy for more detailed information.
12. Is there an Academy uniform?
Yes, please refer to the Academy uniform requirement page.
13. Can parents view classes?
To keep a distraction free, safe learning environment, observation is through our video monitors. This allows each student to achieve the most within their class time. Parent visitation is scheduled throughout the year.
14. How does arrival and departure work at Mary Jo’s?
Upper Division students will be dropped off through the East side drive-thru of the Academy. Children’s Division students should be walked up to the front of the Academy with a parent or guardian. Students should have a parent or guardian stay with them outside until their instructor or CAPP is ready to gather them for class.
15. Is there a Lost & Found?
Yes, items found in the classrooms will be taken to the Lost & Found at the end of each day. Lost & Found is located by the bathroom hallway.
16. What number do I call if I need to get a message to my child during class?
If you need to get a message to your child while they are in the classroom, please call 813-969-0240 and press 0. Our receptionist will kindly deliver your message.
17. How do I get a message to a faculty member?
If you need to discuss any concerns you may have please email info@mjpaa.com.
18. What if my child is sick and unable to attend class?
Please call Mary Jo’s Performing Arts Academy at 813-969-0240 to leave a message on our attendance line if your child will be absent. There are no make-up lessons for missed classes due to limited space.
19. What if Hillsborough County closes for inclement weather, does that mean the Academy is closed?
We will always follow Hilsborough County School Board’s recommendations for canceling classes during an emergency (such as a hurricane). If schools are cancelled for an emergency such as weather, Academy classes will also be considered for cancellation. Information will be distributed and we will make every effort to inform students of cancellations and rescheduling.
20. Do you have Recitals/Concerts?
Yes, the Dance Department’s Children’s Division Concerts & Upper Division Concerts will be held each June at the University of South Florida. (Further information on which Concert your child’s class is participating in & if your child’s class is eligible to participate in Concert will be released at a later date.) The Acrobatic Department will have a demonstration at the end of each year. The Music Department will hold an annual concert each May in the Academy Black Box Theatre. The Acting Department will perform presentations at the end of each acting session. Each family will have the opportunity to accept or decline participation in Concerts. Mary Jo’s Performing Arts Academy reserves the right to add or remove any classes from participating in Concert.
21. Do you have any performance or competition teams?
Yes, the Academy is home to the Universal Movement Performing Arts Company. Auditions are held annually each year. Please visit the Universal Movement Performing Arts Company page for more details.
22. Are there additional opportunities for my child to perform?
Yes, the Academy hosts numerous auditions throughout the year. Please visit tbttt.org for more details and upcoming auditions.
23. Is your facility available for private functions?
Yes, please email info@mjpaa.com to discuss specific rental rates and policies.
24. How do I make sure I stay informed at Mary Jo’s?
We use email as the primary source of communication. Each student has a file folder located in the MJPAA lobby which should be checked weekly for Academy news. It is the parent’s responsibility to follow up and stay informed about Academy current events.