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Jen Hughes

Associate Tutor
Portland

OnlineIn-Person

Region

Subjects Taught

Admissions & Test Prep

Supporting Students

Meet Jen

Jen has been passionate about teaching since age 10, when she stepped in to lead a community center class after the instructor didn’t show up. That early moment sparked a lifelong commitment to education. She holds master’s degrees in education, special education, and counseling, and has spent the past two decades supporting students both in the classroom and through one-on-one tutoring.

Jen has taught English and math at various levels, including community college and Portland State University, but her specialty is math. Many students come to her frustrated or discouraged, and she finds it deeply rewarding to help them build confidence: “I love sharing my personal journey with math—how I once struggled with it too, and now love it.”

Her approach is grounded in building trust and authentic relationships with students. She believes that learning happens best when students feel seen and supported as whole people, not just learners. This philosophy has guided her work with at-risk youth in Los Angeles and, since 2017, with students in her hometown of Portland.

A dedicated special education teacher and youth mentor, Jen has also supported students in earning high school diplomas and gaining college acceptance. Outside the classroom, she’s worked with youth on six continents and brings that global perspective into her teaching.

Qualifications:

  • 20+ years of experience as a classroom teacher and private tutor
  • State licensed teacher in both General and Special Education (Oregon & California)
  • Master’s degree in Education from Portland State University
  • Master’s degree in Counseling from Biola University
  • B.S. in General Studies in Science from Portland State University