Shoshannah Pass
Shoshannah Pass is a dedicated Special Education Manager and Case Manager with Chicago Public Schools, bringing over 24 years of experience in K-12 education. She has built a career supporting students who learn differently, ensuring their individualized learning and medical plans—such as IEPs and 504s—are implemented with fidelity and compliance. Throughout her career, Shoshannah has collaborated closely with teachers, parents, clinicians, and external service providers to create inclusive, effective learning environments that drive student success.
Prior to her current role, Shoshannah spent more than seven years at charter schools, serving as a case manager, special education teacher, and master teacher, where she oversaw school-wide initiatives to improve instruction, behavior management, and academic outcomes. She has been instrumental in developing professional learning communities, delivering crisis prevention training, and securing grant funding to integrate technology and resources for diverse learners. Her leadership has consistently strengthened school culture, promoting collaboration and high-quality instruction for all students.
Shoshannah holds a Certificate of Educational Leadership from the American College of Education and a Director of Special Education endorsement from National Louis University. She is preparing for her principal administrative credentials in Illinois, further expanding her capacity to lead and advocate for equitable educational opportunities. Beyond her professional work, she volunteers with Special Olympics Illinois and other community programs, coaching and mentoring students to foster inclusion, leadership, and respect for all abilities.
• Safety Care
• Safety Care Trainer
• Crisis Prevention Intervention
• Teachscape
• Wellness and Yoga Teacher Training
• Wisconsin Teaching License
• Rockford University - M.A.
• Teacher of the Year
• Herb Kohl Fellowship Award
• Thelma Stack Award
• Wisconsin Governor's Service Award
• Chicago Teachers Union
• National Education Association
• NAACP
• National Special Education Association
• Boys and Girls Club
• Gigi's Playhouse
• ACLU
• Special Olympics Illinois
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always look for a window instead of a door when challenges arise. In other words, stay flexible and approach every situation with a problem-solving mindset. Rather than giving up or seeking the easiest exit, I focus on finding creative solutions and adapting to whatever comes my way.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life include balance, connection, and growth. Personally, I prioritize wellness through practices like yoga, quality time with family, and traveling to gain new perspectives. Professionally, I am guided by collaboration, flexibility, and problem-solving, with a strong commitment to student-centered learning and meaningful family engagement.