I have often described Shipley as a school that is both incredibly accomplished and that possesses great potential. It’s reasonable to ask, how can a school be both rooted in its mission and values and committed to change? The simple answer is that Shipley has always been driven to do what is best for its students and to prepare them for the world.
Shipley’s decision to move to coeducation is an excellent example. The School recognized 50 years ago that diversity, equity, and inclusion matter, and that coeducation would better prepare students for college and for success in an increasingly diverse world. That move was made with an enduring commitment to what Shipley holds dear, as articulated by former Head of Lower School Diana Russell Deacon in 1972, “The fine quality of the teacher-student relationship, concern for the individual, and the development of each student to his or her greatest potential.”
The School’s strategic plan, Vision 20/26, challenges us to inspire and prepare each of our students for lives of purpose. While a Shipley education (past, present, and future) begins with educational excellence, we remain committed to developing love of learning and compassionate participation in the world.
I continue to be inspired not only by current Shipley students but the School’s alumni who are clearly shaping a better world. Their stories and accomplishments, which appear throughout the magazine, are evidence that the value of a Shipley education lasts a lifetime and I am grateful to lead a School that has been and continues to be a force for good in the world.
"Within this [Summer/Fall 2023] issue of Shipley Magazine, we highlight some of the work that has been done in recent years in support of the goals laid out in Vision 20/26. Our progress would be impressive in any light, but accomplishing what we have while navigating a pandemic is nothing short of remarkable."
In the pursuit of educational excellence, Shipley's strategic plan focuses on equipping students with the essential skills needed to thrive in a complex, interconnected world. This article delves into how the history curriculum embraces diverse perspectives, promotes global thinking, and offers experiential learning, ultimately fostering students' ability to engage compassionately and lead effectively.
In the pursuit of educational excellence, Shipley is committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that empower students to become global citizens and compassionate participants in the world. This article explores how Shipley's special programs and partnerships facilitate hands-on, impactful learning opportunities, fostering cross-cultural insights, and making a positive impact in local and global communities.
For over 30 years, Shipley has been at the forefront of nurturing students' social and emotional well-being through its pioneering SEED program. This article explores the program's origins, evolution, and its global influence, highlighting Shipley's commitment to fostering well-rounded, empathetic, and emotionally resilient students in pursuit of educational excellence.
Shipley's commitment to educational excellence extends to cultivating a sense of belonging within its diverse community. This article delves into how Shipley has embraced its DEI Strategic Plan, celebrating diversity, providing professional development, and creating affinity spaces to foster inclusivity and unity.
This exploration of Shipley's Strategic Plan Goal #1: Educational Excellence focuses on enhancing student engagement and leadership by investing in professional development for teachers. This article sheds light on how dedicated educators at Shipley continue to learn and evolve, emphasizing the importance of staying abreast of best practices to provide students with the highest quality education.
At Shipley, a thriving sense of community is central to the School's mission. This article highlights some of the initiatives and events that have been instrumental in fostering a vibrant culture of pride, engagement, and commitment among students, parents, alumni, and friends of the School, all in line with Goal 2 of Shipley's Strategic Plan.
Learn more about Chantra Reinman—from her unexpected journey into education to her love for travel, and a surprising encounter with royalty, Chantra shares what drives her to make a difference in the lives of young learners. Discover why she's so passionate about protecting children's options and possibilities, what she loves to do in her free time, and why the classic film Roman Holiday holds a special place in her heart.
At the 2023 Philadelphia Flower Show, Shipley’s commitment to excellence was on full display through the prize-winning work of the Sprouts, Upper School Horticultural Ecology students, and the Middle School Gardening Club. Shipley alumni also made their mark, with Betsy Hastings Block ’83 and Laura Butera '08 contributing in big ways to the event's success.
Shipley's Middle and Upper School Science Olympiad Teams competed in the Pennsylvania Science Olympiad State Tournament on April 22 at Penn State Altoona. Fourteen teams earned medals during the tournament.
Meet Sergio Jackson, Shipley’s Director of Athletic Performance, who inspires the community to move and thrive. Learn about his journey from a college athlete to Shipley, where he creates an inclusive and empowering environment for the community. You will also discover how he applies his guiding principles of strength, energy, resilience, and gratitude (SERG) to help students achieve their health and wellness goals.
Shipley’s Track and Field team made School history by participating for the first time in the historic Penn Relays at Franklin Fields on April 27-29, 2023. The Gators ran with courage and grace, making a memorable first impression at this year's Penn Relay Carnival. Before the races, the team and coaches made a promise to each other: "Focused teammates, committed to run for each other," and that is precisely how they competed.
Shipley's very own Director of Bands, Dr. Harley Givler was recognized as a finalist in the 10th Annual Philadelphia Youth Orchestra Music Institute Ovation Awards. He and the nine other finalists were nominated by current and former students who wrote essays on “How My Music Teacher Changed My Life.”
The Shipley Honors Combo won first place in the Small Ensemble Division 2 category at the National Jazz Festival, held April 22 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia. Trumpeter Aidan Peterson ‘24 won an Outstanding Musician Award and also earned the Judge’s Choice Award.
In an effort enrich Shipley’s Theater Arts Program, significant changes are underway, touching every aspect of the program—from personnel to scheduling. Learn more about the exciting changes underway in Shipley's Theater Arts.
Read reflections from Class of 2023 Shipley alumni, who are now thriving at various prestigious universities. They share how their Shipley experience has equipped them with resilience, adaptability, courage, and a passion for exploration and learning. Read all of the Class of 2023 reflections.
Honorary alumnus and former Latin teacher David Rich inspired Shipley students for close to three decades. Since retiring in 2021, he has immersed himself in Great Barrington's artistic community, rekindling his love for the piano and transforming Cicero's 'The Dream of Scipio' into a captivating play.
The Alumni Service Award is presented for outstanding volunteer service to The Shipley School by an alumna or alumnus as demonstrated by strong loyalty, exceptional contributions of time and effort, and personal commitment to the advancement of the School’s mission.
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.