Welcome New Faculty Members Michaela & Skip!

We’re thrilled to introduce two new educators who will be joining our faculty this August: Michaela Shantry as our Learning Specialist and Philip “Skip” Walter as our Middle School Language Arts teacher.

Michaela comes to FSW with a Master’s in Elementary Education and a strong background in supporting diverse learning needs through individualized instruction, literacy intervention, and data-informed strategies. In her current role as a 1st grade Lead Teacher in Greensboro, Michaela is known for her thoughtful approach to curriculum planning, her ability to adapt to varied learning styles, and her belief in the power of close family-school partnerships. She’s especially excited to join a community that prioritizes inclusion and connection—two values that have long guided her work as an educator.

Skip brings more than 20 years of experience teaching middle school students across the country, including at Marin Country Day School in California and, most recently, Ravenscroft School in Raleigh. He holds a master’s in English Literature from Middlebury College’s Bread Loaf School of English, with a focus on environmental literature and nature writing. A passionate advocate for experiential learning, Skip brings an approach to Language Arts that blends critical thinking, interdisciplinary connection, and creative expression. His energy, experience, and love of outdoor education make him a wonderful fit for our community.

Please join us in warmly welcoming Michaela and Skip to Friends—we can’t wait for you and your children to get to know them!