I love the feeling that the start of a new school year brings—the sense of possibility, the excitement, the hope (in some cases, the nerves). This year, that feeling is especially poignant because it feels, dare we say, normal. Though challenges still exist, we have learned so much about how to live with COVID. As a result, and following a summer that emphasized having an actual summer, we begin the 2022-23 school year with what can best be described as a pre-pandemic sense of normalcy. This year, we are really going back to school.

At Shipley, this means educating students the way we want to—without distancing, protocols, or restrictions, and with gatherings, travel, and field trips. The return of these daily joys is accompanied by a rejuvenated focus on realizing our strategic plan, Vision 20/26. Having refined how to pursue educational excellence amidst the chaos of recent years, I am more confident than ever in our ability to guide our students to shape a better world.

I am so proud of how the Shipley community has stepped up during the last three years. All of you have played a role in the health, safety, and continued growth of our students—and that of our School. I am especially astounded by our teachers, whose hard work, dedication, and sacrifices have ensured our students’ continued progress and well-being through it all. In spite of all the challenges, Shipley teachers have remained dedicated to their craft and to their students. For that, I could not be more grateful.

I hope you enjoy reading the Summer/Fall 2022 issue of the Shipley Magazine, which includes stories about the programs and people that make Shipley exceptional, and the incredible impact that our alumni are making in their careers and in the world.