Brianna Ross ’10: Representing Excellence, Embodying Compassion
In October 2021, Brianna Ross ’10 was named the 2021-22 Maryland Teacher of the Year. “It was undeniably the greatest and most exciting accomplishment of my life,” says Ross, who teaches social studies to sixth graders at Deer Park Middle Magnet School in Baltimore County.
Beyond being a personal honor, Ross feels the award sends an important message to the students she teaches. “The student body in my school is about 87% Black and 6% Hispanic,” she explains. “So most of our students are children of color. For me to stand in this space as a Black woman—one of the very few Black women who have won Maryland Teacher of the Year and the first Black woman to win Teacher of the Year award in Baltimore County—is both an incredible honor and a wonderful example of representation. It communicates to my students that they deserve to have high-quality teachers and get a really good education.”
To Ross, who volunteered as a tutor in the Will Trippley Tutoring Program during her time at Shipley, great teaching is rooted in a love for students. In her own classroom, she tries to channel lessons she learned from Shipley Upper School history teachers Charles Amidon and Charlene Weigel. “Mr. Amidon really allowed us to take charge of our learning,” she recalls. “I learned a lot in his class, but the learning was self-driven. I try to give my own students the autonomy to explore topics they care about. As for Ms. Weigel, I remember how she went above and beyond. When I missed several weeks of class after a surgery, she recorded all her lessons to make sure I could still receive instruction. I try to embody her compassion and flexibility in my own teaching practice.”
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Ross also serves as an equity liaison. Part of her work in that role involves reconsidering which stories we tell and which ones we omit from history classes. “For example, the first unit of our American History class starts in Colonial America and talks about the American Revolution,” she says. “We think about revolution from the Colonial perspective, but we never bring in the stories of the other resistance movements happening around that same time involving indigenous people and enslaved people.
One of those stories that I really wanted to bring into the curriculum—and one that will be implemented next year—was the story of the Stono Rebellion, which was an uprising by enslaved people that took place in South Carolina in 1739. Equity involves uncovering, unearthing, and including the other stories in history that we often choose not to tell, but that can support student learning.”
Alumni from the Classes of 1960, 1975, 1990, 2005, and 2020 share their Shipley stories—highlighting the traditions, teachers, and experiences that shaped who they are today.
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.
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.
Kristina "Tammy" Rosqueta Kelly ’90 reflects on the Shipley teachers, friendships, and experiences that gave her confidence and shaped her worldview. Now a Shipley parent, she celebrates the traditions that connect her family across generations and the values that continue to endure.
Dan Blank ’05 reflects on his Shipley experience—immersive classes, unforgettable Shakespeare performances, and a deep commitment to service. From “Dan the Fan” to educator, he carries forward the values and passions sparked during his time at Shipley.
Declan Buckley ’20 reflects on the rigorous academics, supportive teachers, and wide-ranging opportunities that shaped his Shipley experience. From student government to the school musical, he embraced it all—building the confidence and curiosity he carries with him today.
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 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.
Lower School students brought democracy to life through a spirited election, where Black Panther won the presidency of Alphagator Island after weeks of campaigning and civic engagement.
Geoff Flint ’90 reflects on Shipley’s lasting impact—from standout teachers and spirited traditions to global experiences and lifelong friendships. As he returns for his 35th Reunion, he recalls how Shipley prepared him for college, career, and a meaningful life.
From West Virginia to Shipley, Nancy Herkness Theodorou ’75 found joy in learning, lifelong friendships, and the freedom to explore her passions. She reflects on inspiring teachers, life as a boarder, and how Shipley shaped her path to Princeton and beyond.
From her earliest days in Shipley’s four-year-old nursery class to celebrating her 65th Reunion, Nancy Johnson Campbell ’60 reflects on inspiring teachers, lifelong lessons, and the School’s evolution—while cherishing the enduring Shipley spirit that has thrived through the decades.
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 the life and legacy of Nancy Lauber, Shipley’s Head of School from 1972 to 1979, who led the school through its transition to coeducation and made lasting contributions to academic innovation and campus expansion.
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.
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.
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.