Shirley graduated from St. Paul High School in 1969. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in special education from Southern Illinois University Edw. She served as a primary and middle school teacher in the Highland School District. Shirley’s school involvement included a number of advisory and participatory committees as well as mentoring new teachers. She was a member of several professional educational organizations and active in the Highland Education Association. Shirley has always been focused on special education and heavily involved in Special Olympics. Throughout her career, she has served on both regional and state organizations. She is also a Certified ISO coach and served as the Region II Special Olympics head coach from 1980-2011.