Shelly Hughes, MA, LSC 

With over 25 years of experience, Shelly Hughes helps students and families navigate academic challenges, executive function development, and the college planning process. Currently serving as a High School Counselor in the NW suburbs of Minneapolis, Shelly combines practical experience with a data-driven, empathetic approach to create personalized support plans that empower students to thrive academically, emotionally, and beyond the classroom.

Expertise spans executive function coaching, academic advising, and college counseling, with a focus on building confidence, clarifying goals, and providing actionable strategies. Broad experience in urban and rural schools, secondary and higher education, and diverse learning needs ensures informed, unbiased guidance for every family.

Professional Highlights

• School Counselor & College Advisor — Guiding academic planning and post-secondary pathways

• Conference Presenter & Consultant — Expert in disability law and student support

• Community Education Instructor — Taught college planning topics across multiple school districts

• Section 504 & Testing Accommodations Coordinator — Ensuring equitable access to learning environments

• MTSS/PBIS Coordinator — Leading school-wide intervention and support initiatives

• University Pre-Major Advisor — Supporting early college exploration and decision-making

• Youth Leadership & Residential Counseling Experience — Supporting student growth beyond the classroom

• Parent of Three Young Adults — Offering firsthand perspective on the high school and college journey