Individual, Joyful, Creative: The Andreoli-Culver Family's Shipley Story
Kathryn Smith
Katie Culver works in education. When it came time to look for a school for her own children, Collin ’23, Mae ’25 and Tanner ’28 Andreoli, she knew exactly what she wanted. “I had heard that Shipley was a progressive school and I had been working in the city studying progressive schools,” she says. “When we visited, we loved everything about it.” The family was particularly taken with the Middle School. “We loved the space! There was natural light and creativity everywhere. There were beautiful collages on the wall that have to do with values and identity. I’m very involved in race and equity work, and I was thrilled that Shipley had committed to that.”
Shipley’s emphasis on academic rigor with support was particularly appealing. “Shipley’s academics are unparalleled and the teachers are the heart of it. They are qualified, personable, and hard-working. Both of my kids are so different and they both thrive in the environment,” says Katie. She particularly appreciates the creative nature of the assignments. “Everything is so interactive. In STEAM classes they get to use the Maker Space. It’s not just one-size-fits-all. That’s definitely the major reason why we chose private over public.”
Katie is also a huge fan of Shipley’s advisory program. “I love the model – you need to have a small group of kids who all connect with one adult. My children have their ‘person.’ In the beginning of the year, they each sat with their advisory for lunch. Shipley builds community that way. For new kids coming in, it’s so key.”
Each sporting season during middle school, students rotate through the various sporting options before they get to choose where they’d like to focus. “All of the coaches are terrific,” says Katie. “They make the kids feel comfortable and welcome. You really feel like you’re part of the family there.”
“I guess I just keep going back to this,” says Katie. “The learning is rigorous, creative, hands-on, joyful, and fun in the middle school. Simply put, it feels magical.”
Katie Culver works in education, so when it came time to look for a school for her own children, she knew exactly what she wanted. Shipley's individualized, creative, and relationship-based approach to educational excellence checked all of the boxes.
The Upper School Administration recognized the outgoing and incoming student leadership officers and presented students with academic, athletic, and leadership awards at the annual Closing Awards Ceremony.
After more than 20 years of dedicated service, Dr. Sharron Russell will leave Shipley at the end of the school year. Learn more about her impact and what’s next in her professional journey.
When the Flannellys relocated to Philadelphia, they sought a school where all four of their sons could thrive. Shipley stood out—not just for academics and activities, but for the deep, personal support that would shape their confidence and growth.
In Gator Congregation Storytellers and Middle School’s 5 Minutes of Wisdom, students and faculty share personal, heartfelt stories—moments of growth, courage, and connection. These programs foster empathy, trust, and belonging, strengthening the relationships that make Shipley’s community so special.
The Shipley School is proud to celebrate the achievements of our 2025 Alumni Award recipients—three distinguished individuals who embody the values of excellence, leadership, and service in their respective fields.
For over 20 years, Shipley’s partnership with alumna Paige West ’86 and the West Collection has brought world-class contemporary art to the Speer Gallery, inspiring students to think boldly and engage with real-world ideas.
Shipley’s Speer Gallery, led by art teacher Julia Staples, is a vibrant hub for learning and connection, showcasing thought-provoking exhibits that spark conversation and inspire collaboration across subjects like History, Science, and English.
Read about how Shipley changed life for Sissy ffolliott ’70 and why she supports the Centennial Society—ensuring future generations receive the same transformative education and encouragement she experienced over 55 years ago.
Middle School Science Teacher Ace Schwarz recently presented an education-focused project at the prestigious American Astronomical Society (AAS) Conference. Learn how Mx. Schwarz brings NASA research into Shipley’s classrooms, empowering students with authentic data projects and cutting-edge astronomy lessons.
To celebrate Black History Month, Shipley was proud to host Carlotta Walls LaNier, the youngest member of the Little Rock Nine, on Monday, February 3. Carlotta spoke to students and faculty about her story - for the right of every child to learn and grow without discrimination. She also spent time with the Black Student Union.
Congratulations to Aarik ’28 and Rohail ’26 for their creativity and award-winning excellence in the CMU CS Academy Fall 2024 Creative Task Competition, hosted by Carnegie Mellon University’s School of Computer Science.
Shipley’s Finance Club, hosted Tim Buckley, former CEO of Vanguard, for a discussion on career development, leadership, and the power of curiosity. Buckley shared practical advice on building a fulfilling career, the importance of asking thoughtful questions, and how purpose can drive lasting success.
Shipley’s dynamic history curriculum challenges students to think critically, engage deeply with diverse perspectives, and connect the past to today’s world. Explore how innovative electives and passionate educators bring history to life in 11th and 12th grade classrooms.
Shipley’s Middle School history classrooms are alive with creativity, immersive projects, and hands-on learning. From muckraking magazines to trench art, students don’t just study history—they experience it, making meaningful connections to the past and present.
The Shipley School Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Ian L. Craig as the next Head of School, effective July 1, 2025. Mr. Craig brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in independent schools and a strong commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and program innovation.
Over the past five years, Shipley’s Cross Country program has surged forward, blending competitive success with a vibrant culture of personal growth and team spirit. This rise has been powered by an engaged community of runners, dedicated coaches, and a program spanning Lower, Middle, and Upper School.
On display in Shipley's Speer Gallery from January 27 - April 4, 2025, an exhibition of paintings and sculptures addressing the urban landscape of Philadelphia.
Ranked #6 in the nation for U15 squash players, Kate reflects on her journey—from her first lesson with Coach Chris to joining Shipley's varsity squash team. Learn how the Shipley Squash Academy shaped her skills, mindset, and love for the game as she continues to tackle new challenges and reach for new heights.
The Shipley School is a private, coeducational day school for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students, located in Bryn Mawr, PA. Through our commitment to educational excellence, we develop within each student a love of learning and a desire for compassionate participation in the world.