About Marlaina Schroeder Spivey
Founder/Director
Marlaina Schroeder Spivey has been involved in the world of dance for over 30+ years. As an award-winning choreographer, dancer, performer, instructor, and high school teacher with her Master’s in Education, Marlaina believes there is great power in dance, education, and self-expression. She founded MIDC to create a safe space where all students could come to learn technique, form life-long friendships, and enjoy themselves while feeling completely accepted, nurtured, and challenged.
About Marlaina Schroeder Spivey
Public Life
Marlaina earned her Master’s degree in Education from UC Davis, graduating at the top of her class. As a respected local business owner, instructor, and community organizer, Marlaina has applied her expertise in education both in the classroom—serving as a high school teacher for over a decade—and out of the classroom by creating academic programs that have been implemented statewide. Having received a number of accolades and awards for her innovative approach towards student growth and achievement, Marlaina is a passionate force for individual and community success.
Personal Life
In 2020, Marlaina and her husband James welcomed their first beautiful “IVF Miracle Baby” Aurora Rose into their lives and into the world of MIDC…
…and in 2023, they welcomed “IVF Miracle Baby #2” Giannis!
“MIDC is much more than an award-winning dance company. We’re a supportive family who encourages one another to be the best versions of ourselves that we can be. Our Motto is ‘laugh, live, love, and dance.’ This is because we first and foremost want to remind dancers to enjoy themselves and laugh as often as possible. At MIDC, we view dance as a tool to teach the whole student. Yes, we teach technique, but we also teach self-love, dedication, commitment, excellence, and teamwork. It’s really important for our dancers to feel like they aren’t just going to dance class, but that they are enjoying themselves, having a good time with their friends, being the best versions of themselves they can be —all while learning technique from world-class instructors.”
- Marlaina Schroeder Spivey
