February Falcon Wings

FWCD’s Parent Faculty Association awarded Upper School English Teacher Jon Shipley with the February 2025 Falcon Wings honor. Falcon Wings recognize PFA volunteers, FWCD teachers or staff who soar above and beyond the call of duty to enhance PFA programs or events, or have improved the greater FWCD community through their dedication and enthusiasm. A book was donated to the Carolyn W. Fierer Library in his honor.

Carrie Naylor McPadden, PFA Falcon Wings Chair,  shared the announcement at the January 13  PFA meeting.

Jon Shipley is a blessing to the Fort Worth Country Day Upper School. His ability to find creative ways to teach his students provides a fun environment that allows them to learn in a way that works for them. Whether it’s through yoga, poker or song … they are learning. He also has the gift of patience and acceptance, knowing that a classroom full of boys is not easy, but it’s important to let them express themselves. 

Mr. Shipley has been a dedicated educator for decades at FWCD. He has profoundly impacted countless students, particularly those who do not color inside the lines of traditional academia. For these kids, school can feel like an uphill battle with few victories, but not in Mr. Shipley’s classroom. His patience, kindness, and ability to create a space where students feel valued and understood set him apart as an extraordinary teacher. 

My son used to (I’m sorry to say) hate English class, seeing it as an insurmountable challenge. However, under Mr. Shipley‘s guidance, he not only gained confidence but is now considering taking AP English – something he never would’ve thought possible. This transformation is a testament to Mr. Shipley‘s ability to inspire students to recognize their own potential. He goes above and beyond, not just in teaching literature and writing, but in shaping character, resilience and self-belief. The students in his class may not know it yet, but Mr. Shipley’s impact on their lives extends far beyond academics.