- While not always true, these days it's a stereotype many people might believe - rude teenagers, always on their cell phones or ipods. But a group of local mothers and business women is hoping to change that stereotype, and get back to some good old fashioned manners, with an etiquette program designed specifically for area teens.

The teen etiquette program is new to Ardmore, put on by a newly formed group -- the Rose Rock Cotillion. Founders wanted their children and others to learn social graces, without having to drive to Oklahoma City or Denton, Texas for classes. The local program kick off on Monday night, and organizers say the response has been overwhelming.

Just like when you're meeting someone new you introduce yourself first, the Rose Rock Cotillion's teen etiquette program began with work on introductions.

"It's just teaching basic civility. We want our young people to feel confident when they're meeting people,” Etiquette instructor Patricia Jackson explained.

Jackson is teaching a group of 35 high school students everything from formal bows, to the proper way to mingle at a reception.

"We want our children to be able to go out into the world with these skills. It's important for their development. It's important for them to be able to get a job and function in society," Program director Dondi Persyn said.

Persyn, a mother of three herself, says she wants children to grow up to be gracious hosts and kind guests, and to just treat others with respect.

The importance of the etiquette being taught seems to be crystal clear to the teenage students.

"It helps you all through life no matter what you do, it's just great life skills," student Morgan Rutledge said.

"It's been really awesome, I think I’ve learned a lot so far," student Joseph Brandauer said

Jackson says she hopes to continue developing these students into polite young adults. And especially in a time when technology can be so consuming, she wants to ensure these teens remember how important human interaction is and how to do it with grace.

"We've a gotten into a society where we're not talking one-on-one and people don't know how to engage in conversation any more. That's part of this, engaging in conversation, chatting with people, making people feel comfortable and just remembering that people are important,” Jackson said.