Curious about the “AG” in Josie’s last name? It’s not a case of wacky middle initials or a stint as Attorney General. Josie grew up with a hyphenated last name (commonly shortened to A-G when she was a child). When Josie and her husband got married, they hemmed and hawed and ultimately decided to blend last names. Now she, her husband, and two daughters all have the last name AG Shapiro! Does it confuse some people? Yes. Do they still love their last name? Also yes.

Professionally, Josie has been working in youth-serving organizations for more than 20 years, and has been at Park Day since 2016. She is a proud Park Day School alum, and credits her Park Day educators with teaching her how to love learning, approach challenges with creativity and kindness, and stand up and take action when something isn’t right. She graduated from Cornell University, and taught English and Creative Writing at the University of Montana where she received her MFA. An avid cook and former food writer, Josie adores cooking with kids and appreciates all Park Day’s farm to table projects. She and her husband Alex have two daughters and live in Oakland.