As a Middle and Upper School Librarian at Shipley, one of the most crucial aspects of my role involves supporting students in the development of critical thinking and information literacy skills and helping them navigate the complex and confusing landscape of online information. In an effort to reach as many students as possible, I have been partnering with teachers across all disciplines to integrate library research into their course projects, allowing time for formal information literacy instruction. This involves guiding students in evaluating sources and discerning credible information, with a focus on authority, accuracy, objectivity, currency, and relevance. The goal here is to empower students to make informed decisions about the reliability of the information they encounter.
A key part of teaching information literacy is instilling in students the habit of questioning what they find online, encouraging a reflective approach to information consumption. This critical mindset is crucial for identifying and challenging misinformation. Mere fact-checking is no longer sufficient; there is a need to analyze online content for bias and uncover potential misinformation tactics hidden within the text. We need to talk to our students about how biases can influence information and underscore the importance of recognizing and understanding various perspectives.
Equipping students with the tools needed to discern credible information from misinformation is no easy task. Recent studies show that the majority of teens and young adults get their news from social media, many citing TikTok as their main source for information (Pew Research Center). My primary area of instruction revolves around academic research, where the influence of social media is not a significant factor. Fortunately, the information literacy skills we cultivate at Shipley extend beyond the classroom and have real-world applications.
Real-Life Learning
In 6th grade SEED, I did a lesson that I like to call “Plagiarism in the Real World,” where I show the class examples of copyright issues that involve popular culture. In my experience, framing these important and often challenging topics in a fun, can you believe it?! way helps kids develop a deeper understanding of what’s really at stake here. I can teach them the fundamentals of copyright all day long, but showing them a fake Vogue with Drake on the cover has them talking about it with their friends, thinking about why it matters.
In 9th grade History, I had the chance to introduce a few library database and search tips to help the students with a research paper. Part of my presentation included a discussion on evaluating websites. I showed the class a few sites and asked them to try and quickly determine if they were trustworthy after just a cursory inspection. I choose websites that I know will be tricky—some look amateurish and silly but have quality information, and others look sleek and professional but do not include any information on the author or publisher. This is always a fun exercise because, more often than not, they guess wrong and we start clicking our way through the site to look for clues.
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.
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.
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!
The Gators had an awesome fall sports season, most notably The Girls Cross Country team claimed their first-ever FSL Championship and finished second in the PAISAA State Championships! Dagny Shiffler ’25 took first place winning an FSL gold and placed 5th at states
Jennifer Devlin, a former electrical engineer, is an Upper School STEAM teacher and Science Olympiad co-coach. She loves seeing students' "aha moments" and takes pride in helping them achieve beyond their expectations.
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.