A Decatur native, Shirley Kistler received a bachelor’s degree in speech and theatre from Illinois State University and a master’s degree in counseling from Sangamon State University.

She started teaching in 1965 and taught English, speech and acting at her alma mater, Eisenhower High School since 1967 as well as producing and directing the dramatic and musical productions there. She retired from the Decatur Public School District at the end of the 2001 school year. She also taught public speaking at Richland Community College for 13 years.

For many years, she has directed creative dramatic activities for children and adults in Decatur. This season marks Shirley’s 23rd year serving as MC for the Muni Band. This past spring, she co directed “Again Still no refunds” for Junior Welfare.