Frequently Asked Questions:

Q - Where is Firstlight located?
A - We're in the Grassland area in Franklin, Tennessee. Click here for a map and directions.


Q - When do you close due to weather?
A - Weather-related closings are based on road conditions, and we wait as long as we can before canceling classes. We have tried to follow the Williamson County public school closings. However, they tend to close when there is no actual snow or very little, and kids like to get out for art class. If there has been snow, and there is ANY ice or slushy stuff on any roads, then we are usually going to be closed. We will let you know by email and on the news banner there on your left. Feel free to call or email and ask too.


Q - What should I wear to class?
A - Everyone should wear old clothes that they can get paint on, or bring a smock or apron. In the winter, an apron doesn't help keep paint off of long sleeves though. Plan for a mess!


Q - Do you offer art classes for grownups too?
A - Yes we do! Check the class link above.


Q - Do you have discounts for siblings or more than one class?
A - Yes we do! After the first class, all subsequent classes for a family are 15% off the regular tuition price.


Q - Do I have to pay for any classes that I miss?
A - This is a good question, and one that comes up often. The answer is simple, but there are several reasons why.

It is your responsibility to attend the classes you've registered for. Tuition is not based on a weekly or even monthly basis, or there would be different amounts due each month. Tuition is for the entire course of 35 weeks of lessons. Monthly installments are there for convenience and unrelated to the number of months we're in session.

When we've not charged for absences in the past, it suddenly becomes a choice every week whether or not to attend. Class attendance drops dramatically across the entire enrollment and the financial hit could actually close the school. here's what we've learned: Life is hectic as well as urgent, and for art class to be attended regularly, it has to be a chosen commitment. Also, Firstlight classes are full and we have people on waiting lists.

For all of these reasons, we charge the entire tuition for the year, regardless of classes missed. This is standard practice in other programs for the same reasons.

Remember that we have a free open studio (for registered students) once a month to help with making up for missed art sessions. This is not standard practice!


Q - What if I already have some art supplies?
A - Bring them! In class, however, we like for everyone to be using the same 10-color paint set for mixing, and the same quality of supplies. You can use your own supplies as long as you have everything on the supply list or something that is of equal quality or better, (such as a larger pallette pad). Brushes especially should not be budget models made for young children.


Q - Why do you not use oil paints in art?
A - Acrylics offer a wider range of techniques. While oil is unique and wonderful, it can also cause allergic reactions in some, and is very difficult to clean up. It's also harder to find good pigments and mediums that are non-toxic. In advanced classes oils are allowed with some restrictions.


Q - What if I need to quit the art class sometime during the year?
A - You can cancel your enrollement with a 30-day written notice on or before February 20th, so that other students who may be waiting to get in can prepare to take your place.


Q - Do you offer scholarships?
A - Yes. We have an application that can be obtained by using the contact link and asking specifically about it. Scholarships are awarded based on need and talent, and cover half of the tuition for the year.


Q - Is there child care provided during classes for younger siblings?
A - No, but we do have a small library if you want to hang out. Space is very limited.


Q - Can I store any art supplies at the academy?
A - Not yet. We might be able to offer some storage for the 2010-11 school year. Stay tuned...
View the Firstlight policies