A few more FAQs

OK, so I know MadCAP is different from other programs in a lot of ways, but what are the top three things that would make this a valuable experience for my family?

First of all, every MadCAP experience is different.  However, as the Artistic Director and a teacher that has seen a lot of students come through MadCAP programming, here are three things I value highly about our educational philosophy and approach:

• MadCAP strives to create a strong, consistent, nurturing community.  Our students are mutually supportive, work together well, and we have very little tolerance for unkind or disrespectful behaviors. Our older students model this for our younger students by working well together, attending and cheering for performances and activities involving all ages, and our staff models this in every teaching and non-teaching moment.  Our strong community is evidenced by the high retention rates of participants in our program and the consistently positive feedback from parents and families.
• MadCAP students will inevitably meet NEW friends from OTHER schools.    So often in communities that are larger (like Madison), students make friends within their school, neighborhood, and perhaps church or faith-based group.  At MadCAP, students from around the city and surrounding neighborhoods work together.  Students who sometimes struggle to find their niche in the school communities where they study can reinvent themselves, discover new friends, and meet other friends with similar interests...sometimes when they least expect this.  Every session is the genesis of new friendships and unexpected happy discoveries.
• MadCAP students are PROUD of their accomplishments, and we are PROUD OF THEM.   MadCAP is a completely PROCESS-BASED program.  Our emphasis is NOT on the final product or performance, but the product (performance) is inevitably great, and this is reflected in the pride our students feel after weeks of hard work.  We work hard together, but we also play hard.  Our staff assembles casts (gives out parts) & presents curriculum in a way designed to challenge each and every student to meet their individual highest potential while also encouraging group collaboration.  Our students are proud of what they accomplish, and this JOY is evidenced on stage.

What if I've already done a few summers with MadCAP, I've finished fourth or fifth grade, and I want to be in the "big kids" group?

Great!  There is an age guideline, but that's just what it is...a GUIDELINE.  We welcome all ages and ability levels, so if you (or your child) would like to bump up to the older kids' group, just e-mail Kjerstie to make arrangements.  The only thing to note is that the older kids are allowed open campus lunch (though encouraged to join the group for a picnic).  If parents prefer lunchtimes be supervised, it is the students' responsibility to let the staff know about that plan.

Does MadCAP offer Financial Aid?

MadCAP does offer tuition waivers to families that qualify on the HUD guidelines.   Financial aid forms are available by contacting our office.  Applications are approved by a committee of Board and community representatives.  *Please note, MadCAP has received a large number of financial aid requests this year, and may not be able to fill all of them.*