FAQs

General Information
 

1. What is the Laity Institute of the Arts?
   
   The Laity Institute of the Arts (LIA) is a non-profit private arts organization founded in 1989 by James and Delayna Goins. Based in Palmdale, CA. LIA offers visual and performing arts education in acting, animation, art, dance, and music. Our mission is to nurture students’ creativity, confidence, and skills through comprehensive programs like LEAP (Laity Educational Arts Program), fostering artistic excellence and personal growth.
    

2. Who can enroll in your programs?
   
   Our programs are open to children ages 6 and up for visual arts, with acting, dance, and music programs designed for a range of ages, typically starting at elementary school level (K-8) and extending to advanced courses for grades 5-12 (e.g., Music and Character Design). Children from anywhere in the Antelope Valley are eligible to enroll.
    

3. Where are you located, and do you offer online classes?
   
   We are located in Palmdale, CA, with LEAP programs offered at sites on campuses within the Palmdale School District and other locations. We also provide online private and semi-private visual arts and music lessons. Contact us at crm@laityarts.org to inquire about online options for other disciplines.
    

4. What makes Laity Institute different from other arts schools?
   
   LIA stands out with small class sizes (5-15 students) for personalized attention, a faculty of passionate professionals, and a curriculum aligned with National Core Arts Standards. Our excellence-inspired approach emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and excellence, building not just skills but also character and confidence.
    

Programs and Curriculum
 

1. What specific classes do you offer in visual arts, dance, and music?
    

   • Visual Arts: Drawing, painting, sculpture, animation, and advanced Character Design: Drawing & Sketching.

   • Dance: Classical ballet to contemporary styles, with a focus on technique and performance.

   • Music: Instrumental and vocal lessons, music theory, composition, and performance across various genres.
     Contact us for the latest class offerings.
      

2. What is the LEAP program, and how does it work?
   
   LEAP (Laity Educational Arts Program) is an after-school program offering comprehensive study in acting, art, animation, dance, and music for grades K-8. It’s aligned with National Core Arts Standards, featuring 8 classes per month, with small groups (5-15 students) for optimal learning, and is designed for schools and organizations. Schools or parents can request LEAP at their site. This program requires a minimum of 60 students to engage and a maximum of 120 with current staff. 
   Larger enrollment requires additional staff, and the program cost will rise accordingly.
    

3. Are there beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels for each program?
   
   Yes, we cater to various skill levels. Visual arts start at age 6 for beginners, with advanced courses like Character Design for grades 5-12. Dance, Drama, and music programs build from foundational skills to refine techniques and performances. Contact us to match your level with a program.
    

4. Do you offer private lessons for all disciplines?
   
   We offer online private and semi-private lessons in visual arts and music. In-person options may be available for acting, dance, and music, depending on instructor availability. Please email crm@laityarts.org to confirm options for your discipline of interest.
    

5. What is the Character Design: Drawing & Sketching course, and who is it for?
   
   This is an advanced visual arts course for grades 5-12, focusing on drawing and sketching techniques for character creation. It’s ideal for students with prior art experience looking to develop skills for animation, comics, or storytelling.

 

Registration and Fees
 

1. How do I register for a class?
   
   Visit our "Registration" page at www.laityarts.org/registration, fill out the sign-up form, and submit it. We’ll contact you to confirm enrollment and next steps. Registration deadlines vary, so apply early as seats fill quickly.
    

2. How much do your programs cost?
   
   Most classes are $100 per month per student for two 60-minute classes weekly. Music is $120 per month for 1/2 hour lessons weekly. Please contact us at crm@laityarts.org for current pricing. LEAP costs may differ if school-funded.
    

3. Are there any additional costs (e.g., supplies, uniforms, performance fees)?
   
   Visual arts students may need personal supplies (e.g., sketchbooks, pencils), though some materials are provided. Dance may require shoes or attire, and performances might involve minimal costume fees. We’ll clarify additional costs upon registration.
    

4. What is your refund or cancellation policy?
   
   Our "Policies" page outlines rules, but typically, refunds are offered within a set period (e.g., 7-14 days) before classes start, minus a small fee, if applicable. Cancellations after the term begins may not be refundable. Contact us for specifics.
    

5. Do you offer scholarships or financial aid?
   
   While not explicitly listed, as a non-profit, we strive to make the arts accessible. Limited scholarships may be available based on need and funding. Email crm@laityarts.org to inquire about options.
    

Scheduling and Logistics
 

1. When do classes start, and how long do they run?
   
   Classes typically align with school semesters, starting in fall (August/September) and spring (January/February), running 4-5 months per term. Exact dates vary—check with us for the current schedule.
    

2. What are your class schedules and times?
   
   LEAP operates after school, often 3:00-6:00 PM, with classes at 60 minutes twice weekly. Exact days and times depend on the location and discipline. Contact us for a detailed schedule.
    

3. How large are your class sizes?
   
   We maintain small groups of 5-15 students per class to ensure personalized instruction, proven optimal for arts learning.
    

4. What should my child bring to class?
   
   Students may need a sketchbook, pencils, or specific supplies (we’ll provide a list). Dance requires appropriate shoes and attire (e.g., leotard, ballet slippers). Music students might need instruments for practice if not provided. We’ll confirm needs at registration.
    

Outcomes​​
 

1. What can my child expect to achieve by the end of the program?
   
   Students gain technical skills (e.g., drawing, choreography, musicianship), confidence, and creativity. Visual arts students may exhibit work, dancers perform, and musicians master pieces—preparing them for lifelong artistic engagement.
    

2. Do you offer performance or exhibition opportunities?
   
   Yes, the visual arts include two showcase exhibits yearly (participation encouraged, not required). Dance students engage in captivating performances, and music students may perform in recitals. Frequency depends on the program term.
    

Policies and Expectations
 

1. What are your attendance and behavior policies?
   
   Regular attendance is expected for progress, with absences communicated in advance. Students must respect peers, instructors, and facilities—detailed rules are on our "Policies" page and provided at registration.
    

2. Is there a dress code for classes?
   
   Dance requires appropriate attire (e.g., leotard, tights, ballet shoes) for safety and movement. Visual arts and music have no strict dress code, but recommend comfortable, practical clothing. Details are shared upon enrollment.
    

3. How do you handle allergies or special needs?
    

4. We aim to accommodate students with allergies or special needs. Please note these on the registration form, and we’ll work with you to ensure a safe, inclusive experience, such as modifying activities or spaces as feasible.
    

Community and Involvement
 

1. Can parents observe classes or get involved?
    

2. Parents may observe select classes or showcases (e.g., exhibits, performances) with prior notice. Volunteer opportunities may arise for events—contact us to express interest.
    

3. Do you host events or workshops open to the public?
   
   Beyond student showcases, we occasionally offer community workshops or clinics (e.g., dance clinics mentioned historically). Stay updated via our website or email crm@laityarts.org to join our mailing list.
    

4. How can I contact you with more questions?
   
   Reach us at crm@laityarts.org, call the number on our "Contact" page, or submit a message via the website. We typically respond within 1 business day or sooner.