Our Mission

Stepping Out, School of Etiquette & Leadership, values the inherent excellence in each young person, and strives to transform participants by developing confidence, social skills, poise, and consideration for others. Our goal is to encourage children and young adults to become leaders and to empower each young person to achieve their own personal potential by aspiring to high ideals and standards.

Stepping Out offers classes in a variety of formats to teach etiquette, leadership, dining skills, and social dance in Valdosta. This year, Stepping Out is excited to be partnering with the Valdosta YMCA to offer classes at a new location in a new format. The classes will meet for 5 weeks on Sunday afternoons, and for the sixth class will attend a special event at which students can use all of the newly acquired skills.

Social I, the introductory course, is designed for 5th grade ladies and gentlemen. Thiscourse will teach students interpersonal skills on a variety of topics including The Introduction, Basic Table Manners, Handshakes, and Self-Esteem and Confidence Building. Beginning students will also learn a variety of social dances including line dances, the Fox Trot, the Shag, and the Twist.

Social II builds upon the foundations laid in Social I, and is designed for 6th and 7th grade ladies and gentlemen. Students will continue to practice their skills at the dining table,learn about china and crystal, extending and receiving invitations, and Thank You notes. We will also attend an arts function and practice our manners while in that setting. The social dance education included in Social II expands the knowledge of the Fox Trot, the Shag, and the Waltz, and introduces Slappin’ Leather, Amos Moses, and Saturday Night Fever.
High school ladies and gentlemen are invited to participate in Leadership League, which will teach Leadership Skills, Confidence Building, Introductions and Handshakes, Dining Skills, Personal Qualities That Count, and much more. The dance education includes advanced instruction in the Fox Trot, the Shag, the Waltz, the Boogie, and other line dances. Leadership League will also host a Masquerade Ball.
For more information or to request registration forms, contact Beth Downs by visiting her contact page.