In a world where etiquette and traditional manners sometimes feel like a lost art, the Nye Cotillion program stands as a beacon of social grace and polished interactions for the youth of Pahrump. Led by Sharon Crisp, Kaye LaPointe and Tina Trenner, the Nye Cotillion is run through a nonprofit initiative (Common Goal Fund) designed to teach fourth-grade students essential life skills, from social etiquette to ballroom dancing, in a fun and engaging environment. Now in its third year under their direction, and in cooperation with the J.G. Johnson administration (formerly Debbie Carle and now Sylvia DeMasi), the program has grown to become an anticipated event in the community, leaving a lasting impression on its participants.
The foundation for the program was laid in 2021 when a woman from Las Vegas, Sharon Black, introduced a cotillion-style class to the area. Crisp and LaPointe, along with dance teacher Mr. Barr and other dedicated individuals, were involved in assisting her program. However, when Black did not return for a second year, the local group took it upon themselves to ensure the program’s continuation. LaPointe, teaming up with Tina Trenner, established a formal 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Common Goal Fund, to run the program independently, ensuring its sustainability and accessibility for local students.
The cotillion specifically targets fourth graders, as this age is seen as a pivotal time for developing social confidence and foundational etiquette skills. The program’s impact is evident well beyond the classroom, with past participants demonstrating their newfound manners in everyday life. LaPointe, who works at J.G. Johnson Elementary, sees the direct effects in the school environment. Former students instinctively hold doors open, offer to carry bags, and interact with a newfound poise that carries into their fifth-grade year and beyond. Some even return to mentor the new class, modeling the behaviors they previously learned without prompting.
A key component of the program is dance, with students learning four core styles: the waltz, swing, merengue, and the conga line. The waltz serves as a universal dance that can be used throughout life, while the swing adds an element of fun and energy. The merengue, a marching-style dance, helps students learn coordinated movement, and the conga line encourages group participation and lighthearted enjoyment. During lessons, instructors emphasize not just the steps but also the importance of leading and following, reinforcing teamwork and mutual respect.
Beyond dancing, students are instructed in proper social etiquette. Boys are taught how to escort their partners, pull out chairs, and stand until all girls are seated before taking their own seats. This practice, which initially requires encouragement, soon becomes second nature to the participants. By the program’s end, boys and girls alike confidently display the manners they have internalized. Instructors also provide lessons on table settings, proper use of cutlery, and the art of conversation. The skills taught have real-world applications—one student even returned from a cruise vacation excitedly reporting that she knew which silverware to use, while her parents were left guessing.
One of the most anticipated moments of the cotillion is the formal ball at the end of the season. Students dress in elegant attire—girls in beautiful dresses and boys in tuxedos—and showcase everything they have learned in front of their families. They practice formal introductions, public speaking, and participate in toasts using real champagne glasses filled with lemonade. Parents are invited to join in the dancing, with children escorting them onto the dance floor. The event is a culmination of months of hard work and an experience that stays with the children long after the program ends.
The group has found nothing but positive feedback on their program. The community overwhelmingly supports them, with many parents wishing they had the opportunity to participate when they were younger. The program remains inclusive, with students being allowed to learn either the boys’ or girls’ dance roles based on their preference. If a child wishes to wear a tuxedo instead of a dress, they are welcomed to do so with parental approval. The goal is not to enforce rigid gender roles but to teach respect, kindness, and grace in social settings.
The selection process for the cotillion is thoughtful and intentional. Staff members at J.G. Johnson Elementary, including teachers, custodians, and cafeteria workers, collectively nominate students based on who they believe would benefit most from the program. It is not about correcting poor behavior but rather about recognizing students who would thrive in a structured, socially engaging environment. Every effort is made to balance the number of boys and girls in the program, though some years present challenges—such as this year, where there are two girls for every one boy in the fourth-grade class. In such cases, organizers may invite fifth-grade boys from the previous year to return and participate as mentors.
The cotillion is made possible through generous community support. Local businesses and individuals contribute to the success of the event, with Assemblyman Gregory Hafen II providing official certificates featuring the Nevada state seal, Home Depot donating table centerpieces, and local restaurants like 5, 10, 15 assisting with catering. Other donations have been given by Pahrump Valley Disposal, Death Valley Marketplace, Estate Auctions 411, Factory Home Center, O Happy Bread, Lili’s Boutique, VEA and more. Professional dance instructor Louis Barr, a seven-time world champion, has also lent his expertise, impressing students with his extensive dance background. Although he is unavailable this year due to his new role as the headlining act at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas, his impact on past cotillions remains significant.
Looking ahead, the program continues to evolve. Organizers are considering hosting a dress rehearsal-style assembly so that other students can witness the cotillion experience after the main event. Additionally, they hope to incorporate more community partnerships. These expansions reflect the growing enthusiasm for the program and its long-term value in the community.
The 2025 Nye Cotillion Ball will take place on May 10, an event that promises to be another unforgettable milestone for its young participants. Though the program demands extensive preparation—from securing attire to arranging meals and volunteers—the end result is a group of confident, well-mannered students ready to carry their new skills into future social interactions. Thanks to the dedication of Crisp, LaPointe, Trenner and the many supporters who make the program possible, the Nye Cotillion continues to shape the next generation of poised and courteous individuals.
For those who do not attend J.G. Johnson Elementary or who are homeschooled, Crisp offers an alternative option available through the Miss Pahrump 2000 Foundation with Ms Suzi Lighten. Families interested in this option may text Suzi at 702-813-7928. This weekend cotillion option is held at Great Basin College and welcomes students ages five through eighteen and offers a similar curriculum at an affordable cost of $15 per session. Scholarships are available to ensure accessibility for all interested families. The homeschool group also participates in community events, such as performing at the Soroptimist Club’s luncheons, allowing students to showcase their skills in a public setting.
If you are interested in giving a donation to the Cotillion program, checks can be made out to Common Goal Fund and mailed to 50 Emery St., Box 774, Pahrump, NV 89048. The group also can accept donations through Venmo or Zelle. Any donation is greatly appreciated.
The upcoming cake auction fundraiser is another great way to help the group.
