The Ilyas Family Shipley Story: An Effortless Sense of Belonging
The Ilyases were looking for something more than just an excellent academic education when they explored independent schools for their children. They wanted a school where their kids were going to be free to define themselves and feel a strong sense of community. Learn more about the Ilyases and how Shipley’s environment supports each child’s sense of identity.
The Ilyases were looking for something more than just an excellent academic education when they explored independent schools for their children. “We are fortunate to live in an area rich with educational opportunities,” explains Erum, mom to Dean ’21, Amber ’24, and Sammy ’25.
The Ilyases wanted a school where their kids were going to be free to define themselves and feel a strong sense of community. Like most schools, Shipley promises a caring and diverse community. But Erum will be the first to acknowledge the intricate complexity that comprises a truly diverse community in which every individual is valued for their contribution and ideas.
“Whether through my own schooling or work, it seemed that most attempts at a diverse environment, although well-intentioned, inadvertently fostered a sense of ‘otherness,’ and I didn’t want that for my children,” says Erum, whose parents and grandparents have Pakistani and Indian roots but left those countries almost 50 years ago. She laughs, “I was born in Maryland. So when people ask me where I am from, I don’t know if I should tell them I am from Maryland or where my grandparents were born.”
“Fostering diversity can be tricky,” Erum explains, “Although it’s wonderful to respect and promote what makes us different, not everyone wants to be a ‘representative’ for what might make us different. At Shipley, my kids were welcomed because of, and regardless of, their heritage.”
“Shipley has created an atmosphere that lets our kids share who they are, and also who they want to be. For example, when it was the ‘Heritage Feast’ day, Sammy brought in Maryland crab cakes! I was tickled that my kids feel free to represent either the heritage of their parent from Maryland or their great grandparents from overseas.”
“At Shipley,” explains Erum, “my kids feel an effortless sense of belonging.”
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The Ilyases were looking for something more than just an excellent academic education when they explored independent schools for their children. They wanted a school where their kids were going to be free to define themselves and feel a strong sense of community. Learn more about the Ilyases and how Shipley’s environment supports each child’s sense of identity.
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List of 20 news stories.
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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 -
Danielle Molan, Director of Choirs
Danielle Molan, Shipley’s Director of Choirs, brings a lifelong love of music to her classroom, inspired by a family of musicians and early experiences at the piano. She is committed to creating a collaborative and supportive environment where students can grow as both musicians and individuals. Learn more about her musical journey and teaching philosophy in this Q&A.Read More -
Where are they Now: Chris Wagner, From Educator to Artist
After 37 years shaping Shipley’s art program, Chris Wagner’s passion for art flourishes in a new way. Discover how a chance watercolor class in France sparked a vibrant second act in her artistic journey.Read More -
Katelyn Taylor: Creating Meaningful Experiences in Athletics
A quiet powerhouse in Shipley’s Athletic Department, Katelyn manages the moving parts of anywhere from 12-15 teams per season. While that may seem chaotic—she sticks to her spreadsheets and checklists, plans for various scenarios, and thrives under pressure, all while presenting a calm demeanor.Read More -
Delia Raab-Snyder, Lower School Music
Delia Raab-Snyder, Shipley's Lower School Music teacher, brings a lifelong passion for music to her classroom, shaped by a childhood surrounded by folk music and the sounds of the clarinet. She is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians with an approach centered on active engagement and fostering a deep appreciation for music's cultural significance. Get to know more about her musical journey and philosophy in this Q&A.Read More -
Meet Chantra Reinmen: Shipley's New Head of Middle School
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.Read More -
Director of Squash: Chris Lengthorn
Chris Lengthorn, Shipley's Director of Squash, dedicates his career to pursing two simple goals: to bring squash to the people and help them achieve whatever their definition of success may be. "I teach students how to manage setbacks and overcome adversity through hard work, discipline and resilience." Learn more about Coach Lengthorn in this Q&A.Read More -
Why I Teach: Betsy Leschinsky, Lower School SEED & Library
To know Betsy Leschinsky (or Mrs. L, as the kids like to call her) is to love her. She is humble about her role in Shipley becoming a leader in social emotional learning, but Mrs. L’s sweet, gentle demeanor and small stature belie a giant in our community. Learn more about Shipley's beloved Lower School SEED Teacher, Betsy Leschinsky.Read More -
Austin Wagner, Percussion Ensemble Director
Austin Wagner grew up in a music family, so it was not a huge surprise when he asked for his first drumset at age three. Mr. Wagner believes that music should be fun, and even if students don't plan on pursuing music professionally, they can gain important life skills by honing their musical talents.Read More -
Chris Oatts, Jazz Band Director
Hailing from a musical family—his grandfather, father, and uncle all have claims to jazz fame—music has always been a part of Chris Oatts' life. As a teacher, Mr. Oatts believes in creating strong personal relationships with students, instilling in them a love of music and learning so they can "explore and teach themselves for years to come." Learn more about Mr. Oatts in this Q&A.Read More -
Harley Givler, Director of Bands
"Listening to and making music has always been such a joyful part of my life," says Director of Bands, Harley Givler. "From the first note I played on the horn, I loved the sound and felt an immediate connection to the instrument. Beyond that, I had inspiring teachers and learned very quickly that I could go places with music." Now, Dr. Givler is inspiring the next generation of musicians. Learn more about him in this Q&A.Read More -
Jhonnatan Mata, Director of String Ensembles
Director of String Ensembles Jhonnatan Mata grew up surrounded by music thanks to his mother, a soprano and music educator. His music teaching philosophy is shaped by three principles: 1) That you must put your heart and soul into truly learning something. 2) You have to believe in yourself and not be afraid to make mistakes. 3) Music is a gift that can serve a person throughout their life. Learn more about Mr. Mata.Read More -
“Yes! And . . .”: More than a Saying, A Mindset for Life
Since Dr. Roberta Brandao’s arrival to chair Shipley’s STEAM department in the fall of 2022, she has created a learning environment that fosters creativity, provides relevance, and pushes students to think critically. Learn more about Dr. Brandao's approach and how she makes students feel comfortable about taking creative risks.Read More -
Centering BIPOC Voices at Shipley: Rafhia Foster, Director of Enrollment
Rafhia Foster, Shipley's new Director of Enrollment, was the only African American girl in her class at a local independent school. As a Black, Muslim-raised Trinidadian, she brings with her to Shipley a rich tapestry of lived experiences. She knows well the feeling of not being heard or seen. Now, she embraces each opportunity to share her voice and story, bringing an effervescent spirit to Shipley's Admissions Office.Read More -
The Shipley Nurses: Our COVID Angels
The 2020–2021 school year has been unlike any other, especially for Shipley’s own health-care heroines: Lower School Nurse Terri Grossman, and Middle and Upper School Nurses Amanda “Mandy” Schauerman and Maria Buhl.Read More -
Q&A with Sharron Russell, Director of Positive Education and Student Support
In 1995, Dr. Sharron Russell was hired to write and teach Shipley’s social-emotional curriculum. Dr. Russell, who holds a certificate and doctoral degree in school psychology from Immaculata University and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, respectively, has been directing student support since 2011 and positive education at Shipley since 2016. She is largely responsible for helping to make Shipley the first-ever positive education school in the country.Read More -
Q&A with Middle School Science Teacher Ace Schwarz
Get to know Ace Schwarz, Shipley's newest Middle School science teacher. In addition to being a true lifelong learner and avid reader who loves science, Mx. Schwarz (pronounced "mix") is passionate about their LGBTQ+ advocacy work. Learn more about Ace and how they hope make a positive impact at Shipley.Read More -
Margie Winters: Connecting through Service
Read MoreMargie Winters has dedicated much of her career to serving those in need and inspiring others to do the same. In 2018, she became Shipley’s Service Learning Coordinator and has already made an impact on the School’s robust service learning program. “When we reach out to communities, particularly on the margins, we learn a lot about their lives and their priorities. School service,” she says, “helps student do that in a thoughtful and reflective way.” Learn more about Shipley Changemaker Margie Winters and what she’s doing to make a difference at Shipley and in the world. -
Anne Smith: Following the Siren’s Song with Learning Adventures in Italy
Middle School Latin teacher Anne Smith has inspired Shipley students with her passion for the Classics for 25 years. But perhaps more impactful than anything she’s done within her classroom are the 20+ trips to Italy on which she has led hundreds of Shipley students and parents over the years. Learn more about Anne and her Classical Adventures.Read More -
Meet Zackaria Gaines - Upper School History & 10th Grade Dean
"As a teacher of Humanities one of the things that draws me here is Shipley’s Method of focusing on strong relationships between faculty and students."Read More
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.
