A skater can contract with a Professional if they desire individual lessons. The lessons are contracted directly with the Pro with all fees paid to the Pro at the time of the lesson. The last night of Basic Skills in December is the cut off date for the show, meaning that whatever level a skater is in on that date is the level they will skate in for the show. A skater can still pass levels and will receive badges accordingly, however a cut off date is necessary to give the Pros time to plan a routine around the number of skaters they will have in their group. Some feel that once show practice starts that the learning stops.
Nothing is further from the truth.
The routines often incorporate elements that have not been taught in the lessons and learning a routine is very much a part of skating. The show provides a structured routine set to music and performed in front of an audience which is what every skater does at competitions. Basic Skills skaters are encouraged to come to practice ice sessions. You will see quicker results the more you practice what you have learned in the group lesson. Extra ice time is a good time for private lessons.