Paul Maley

For over 30 years, Paul Maley has been an integral part of the Mid-Pacific School of the Arts (MPSA) Dance Department, leading the program since 2005. While Paul is quick to credit the collaborative efforts of the entire department, his steady leadership has guided the program’s growth from modest beginnings to a vibrant center for young dancers. In this spotlight, we explore the department’s philosophy, the unique opportunities it offers, and how it connects to the school’s overarching mission of Deeper Learning.

Paul Maley’s journey at Mid-Pacific began when he was hired to teach in the original after-school MPSA program. “When I first started, we had just eight students,” Maley recalls. Today, the program has expanded exponentially, offering students a comprehensive education in ballet, contemporary dance, and more. “Mid-Pacific’s commitment to the arts allows our students to immerse themselves in the art form five days a week, with class lengths that provide the time needed to thrive.”

At the core of the dance program is the belief that dance should be accessible to all students, regardless of their previous experience. The program offers eight levels of technique classes, allowing students to start from the basics and progress through more advanced training. “Dance requires time—not just to build a strong foundation and technical skills, but to explore the many pathways it opens beyond performance,” says Maley. “With longer class periods, students have the time to warm up properly and delve deep into both technique and artistry.”

The MPSA Dance program encourages students to engage with dance on multiple levels through four core pillars: creating, performing, responding, and connecting. These pillars, adapted from the National Dance Education Association, guide students beyond performance alone. “It’s not just about performance,” Maley explains. “Our students are choreographers, critics, and collaborators. They create their own works, critique themselves and professional performances, and explore how dance connects with broader societal themes, like politics, economics, and culture.”

This holistic approach aligns perfectly with Mid-Pacific’s commitment to Deeper Learning, a philosophy that prioritizes critical thinking, creativity, and the application of knowledge. The program culminates in a senior seminar called Contextual Studies in Dance, where students explore the intersections of dance with social issues, history, and other disciplines.

“We want our students to understand that dance is more than movement—it’s a reflection of the world around us.”

Collaboration is also a key part of the program. Maley highlights the importance of bringing in guest artists to broaden students’ perspectives. “We invite guest artists with expertise in areas we may not cover, from different dance styles to contemporary trends. This collaboration not only enriches the students’ experience, but also keeps the faculty refreshed and inspired.”

The dance program’s success is also evident in its consistent participation in the National High School Dance Festival, where students have the opportunity to take master classes from world-renowned instructors and audition for prestigious summer intensives and college programs. “It’s an incredible experience for the students,” Maley says. “It’s not a competition, but offers a chance for adjudicated works to be performed. We’ve been fortunate enough to have our work selected for performance year after year, and it’s a testament to quality choreography, the students’ hard work, and our program’s strength.”

Beyond technique and collaboration, the spirit of giving back is deeply embedded in the dance program. For Paul Maley, giving back is not just about financial support, but also about fostering a community of dancers who contribute to each other’s growth. “Many of our alumni come back to teach or choreograph for our students,” he shares. “It’s important for current students to see that they, too, can build a career in dance, just like the alumni who return to share their knowledge and experiences.”

Maley himself is a dedicated donor to Mid-Pacific, directing his contributions specifically to support the dance program. “I earmark my donations for guest artists or our travel fund,” he says. “It’s essential to me that I support the areas where I see the most impact on our students’ growth.” His philosophy of giving back is also a model for others. “When faculty give back, it demonstrates to potential donors that we believe in what we’re doing here. It’s not just about teaching; it’s about investing in the future of these students.”

The dance program’s connection to the broader Mid-Pacific community is further strengthened by the Reiko T. Oda Endowed Dance Scholarship. Established by Bonnie Oda Homsey and Philip R. Homsey II, the scholarship reflects the school’s belief in fostering a love of learning and artistry that resonates throughout life. The scholarship is awarded to students who not only demonstrate technical skill and artistry, but also embody curiosity, intelligence, and a generous spirit—values that Maley holds dear in all of his students.

As the dance program continues to grow, Maley is excited about the future. “We’re constantly evolving,” he says. “I’m proud of what we’ve built here and I’m excited to see how the next generation of dancers will carry on this legacy of learning, creativity, and giving back.”