Shipley Stories
Izzy
Izzy '24
Izzy joined the Shipley community in ninth grade from Spring-Ford High School
Activities and Positions: Softball (Captain), Squash, DECA, Sports Business and Media Club, STEAM Club, Lower School Buddies
Favorite Club: I like STEAM Club because as someone who is very interested in Engineering, I love how there is a fun club where we can share ideas and create things using the different machines and tools in the classroom. I also took the Engineering Design course, so it was also a great place and time to finish up some class projects. I am laser cutter and 3D printer certified, so I could also help my classmates operate those machines or teach them so they could be certified as well.
Favorite Class: I really like how the English classes are structured at Shipley. My 10th grade English Honors class with Mr. Kline was a lot of fun because it was great to come to class and discuss in-depth what we read the night before. I thought the in-class discussions were very engaging and beneficial to my understanding of the books and helped guide me when completing essays and other assignments in class. I always struggled with English, but as I progressed I felt more confident in the subject and my writing has improved tremendously!
Best Thing about Shipley: I think Shipley was the best decision my family and I had made about my education. I have learned to spread my wings, whether to make new friends or get involved with different clubs and sports Shipley has to offer. My friends are my biggest supporters and have helped me grow tremendously as a person at Shipley. I feel confident that Shipley has prepared me well for college and the world, and I am so excited to see where my future will take me!
What is one piece of advice that you would share with new students? My best piece of advice is to be willing to try new things. Shipley offers a lot of clubs, sports, and volunteering opportunities, and with this tight-knit community, it is not hard to find your people and connect with others. It is so easy to find other people with your interests if you put yourself out there and engage in these activities.
Izzy joined the Shipley community in ninth grade from Spring-Ford High School
Activities and Positions: Softball (Captain), Squash, DECA, Sports Business and Media Club, STEAM Club, Lower School Buddies
Favorite Club: I like STEAM Club because as someone who is very interested in Engineering, I love how there is a fun club where we can share ideas and create things using the different machines and tools in the classroom. I also took the Engineering Design course, so it was also a great place and time to finish up some class projects. I am laser cutter and 3D printer certified, so I could also help my classmates operate those machines or teach them so they could be certified as well.
Favorite Class: I really like how the English classes are structured at Shipley. My 10th grade English Honors class with Mr. Kline was a lot of fun because it was great to come to class and discuss in-depth what we read the night before. I thought the in-class discussions were very engaging and beneficial to my understanding of the books and helped guide me when completing essays and other assignments in class. I always struggled with English, but as I progressed I felt more confident in the subject and my writing has improved tremendously!
Best Thing about Shipley: I think Shipley was the best decision my family and I had made about my education. I have learned to spread my wings, whether to make new friends or get involved with different clubs and sports Shipley has to offer. My friends are my biggest supporters and have helped me grow tremendously as a person at Shipley. I feel confident that Shipley has prepared me well for college and the world, and I am so excited to see where my future will take me!
What is one piece of advice that you would share with new students? My best piece of advice is to be willing to try new things. Shipley offers a lot of clubs, sports, and volunteering opportunities, and with this tight-knit community, it is not hard to find your people and connect with others. It is so easy to find other people with your interests if you put yourself out there and engage in these activities.
News
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Finding the Right Fit: The Flannelly Family’s Shipley Story
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.Read More -
Sharing Stories, Building Community
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.Read More -
Introducing the 2025 Shipley School Alumni Award Recipients
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.Read More -
A Legacy of Art: The West Collection at Shipley
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.Read More -
More than Art on the Walls: Shipley's Speer Gallery
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 More -
Why I Give: Sissy ffolliott ’70
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.Read More -
Teacher Ace Schwarz Presents at the American Astronomical Society Conference
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.Read More -
Carlotta Walls LaNier Makes Big Impact During Visit to Shipley
Read MoreTo 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. -
Upper School Students Win Carnegie Mellon Coding Competition
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.Read More -
Tim Buckley visits Shipley Finance Club for Career and Leadership Insights
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.Read More -
A World of Options: Upper School History Electives
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.Read More -
Bringing History to Life in Middle School
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.Read More -
Shipley Announces Ian Craig as Next Head of School
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.Read More -
Shipley Cross Country: Racing Toward Excellence
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.Read More -
Group Show: Drew Leshko, Sophie White, and Nasir Young
Read MoreOn display in Shipley's Speer Gallery from January 27 - April 4, 2025, an exhibition of paintings and sculptures addressing the urban landscape of Philadelphia. -
Gator Tales - Kate Ulrich '28: From GU15 Nationally Ranked to Varsity Squash Star
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.Read More -
"La Caravana del Diablo" by Ada Trillo
"La Caravana del Diablo" by Ada Trillo is on display in Shipley's Speer Gallery from December 1, 2024 to January 17, 2025.Read More -
Stay Connected with the Shipley App
It's easier than ever to stay connected and in the know about all things Shipley with our new mobile app. From calendars and lunch menus to photo galleries, directories, and ShipleyNet, the app keeps everything you need right at your fingertips. It also brings you content from Shipley’s main social media accounts.Read More -
Swamp Night is January 24!
Shipley’s annual Swamp Night is on January 24! Bring your family for food and fun with the entire Shipley community. Wear your favorite Shipley gear and join the Shipley Swamp to cheer on our basketball teams!Read More -
Charlie Cutler '25 Named Main Line Student of the Week
Charlie Cutler '25, Shipley's All-School President, has been named the Main Line Student of the Week for December 16-22 by Main Line Media News.Read More
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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.
