Longtime Joliet Township High School educator and Special Services Director Edna Brass is retiring in style, while giving back to an organization dear to her heart.
Brass, known for her community involvement and keen fashion sense, donated 25 designer and fashion purses to be auctioned at her retirement celebration. The silent auction raised over $1,000 to support Joliet Township High School students who will compete in the Special Olympics on June 13 in Bloomington-Normal.
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Growing up, Brass often attended her brother Donnie’s Special Olympics competition events, which is why she has a passion for those with special needs.
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"The birth of my brother influenced my career path. Donnie was diagnosed with 'autistic-like behaviors.'" said Brass. "He continued to struggle with expressive language skills, and as a result, I majored in speech pathology with a minor in special education, because I wanted to help children like him."
Brass has dedicated 31 years of service to JTHS as a District Speech Therapist, West Campus Special Education Division Chair and District Director of Special Services. Her family is comprised of proud JTHS graduates. Brass is a Joliet Central alumna from the Class of '71. She is married to Saul, a Joliet Central graduate from the Class of '69, and together their family includes: daughter Essence (Central '98) and son-in-law Mike Clark (West '99); daughter Sharralyn (Central '00) and son-in-law Wendell Martin (Central ’00); daughter Marissa (Central '04) and son-in-law Danny Cochran. Brass’ sister and brothers, which includes, Donnie, are also graduates of Joliet Central. Donnie received exemplary special education services at Central in the 80’s that have enabled him to an independent and productive adult.
Over the last 48 years, Brass comments that she has been a student, alumna, parent and employee of Joliet Township High School and that the experiences with each role have brought her many moments of pride, accomplishments and joy. "I would not have it any other way and will always be truly grateful," she said.
