How Chuck Steelman Is Bringing Modern Manners to a New Generation in Dallas

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In a world where good manners and personal presentation matter more than ever, Chuck Steelman is giving children the tools they need to feel confident, polished, and prepared for any occasion through his Modern Manners etiquette classes.  

Steelman has worked in marketing and public relations in luxury fashion for over 20 years and also teaches a class in the journalism division at SMU. He has judged numerous Miss America state competitions including: South Carolina, Texas, Alabama, Georgia and New York. In 2021, he served as a judge for the national Miss USA and Miss Teen USA pageants. Now, he’s taking those skills to train the next generation.

A Class Rooted In Tradition, Designed for 2026 and Beyond

Steelman is preparing to launch his fourth session of Modern Manners this fall, marking an exciting milestone for a program that began just two years ago. The response has been tremendous, with three sold-out sessions and more than 50 students already having participated in the program. 

Modern Manners is designed to make learning etiquette fun, interactive, and memorable. Students learn practical skills they can use every day, including how to properly set a table, basic table manners, personal cleanliness and grooming, and how to write a thoughtful thank-you note.

“I wanted to create a manners course that embraces the technology and leadership skills of today while preserving the timeless history and tradition of good manners,” says Steelman. “Modern Manners is about preparing young people for the future without losing the values that have defined graciousness, confidence, and respect.”

The lessons extend well beyond the dining table and are about so much more than knowing which fork to use. These are all skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

Students learn how to be a perfect traveler, host a seamless birthday party, and confidently navigate social situations. One of the program’s highlights is a special modeling component taught by a professional model, helping students build poise, posture, presentation, and confidence.

The classes also incorporate art activities, interactive lessons, hands-on experiences and plenty of fun, creating an environment where children can learn important life skills while enjoying themselves and making new friends.

“I couldn’t have been happier with my children’s experience in Chuck Steelman’s Modern Manners classes,” says Lauren Abeyta, COO of The Discovery Experts and mom to Lewis and Isabel.

“My children absolutely loved every class. Chuck makes learning etiquette, manners, and social skills fun, engaging, and something they genuinely look forward to. My children came away with practical skills they can use every day, from table manners and writing thank-you notes to grooming, confidence, travel etiquette and how to be gracious hosts. I was especially impressed with how much more confident and polished they became throughout the program. Chuck is passionate about teaching children how to present themselves with kindness, confidence, and respect, and it truly shows. I would highly recommend Modern Manners to any parent looking to give their children skills that will stay with them for a lifetime.”

With the fall session approaching, spots are expected to fill quickly. This fall’s sessions will be held on four consecutive Saturdays (September 26, October 3, October 10, and October 17) and will be held in a private room inside Stanley Korshak. Two sessions — 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. — are offered each Saturday to allow families to navigate sports, birthday parties, school activities, and more. Students should be five to 12 years old to enter the course. 

“My goal is for every student to leave my class with skills they can carry with them for a lifetime,” says Steelman.

What’s Next for Modern Manners

The program Steelman crafted is designed as an introduction to manners, but he says he plans to start writing and designing a class for adults in 2027. He is also working on an Executive Etiquette course for young adults who are entering the workforce.  

“Every time an article is published about Modern Manners, I get contacted by CEO’s and individuals inquiring about etiquette classes for adults,” says Steelman.

To register for Modern Manners, contact Chuck Steelman at chucksteelman@gmail.com or call or text at 469-328-7550.