Shelley Holmes grew up in Atlanta, GA. She is a proud member of the first graduating class of Benjamin E. Mays High School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Vanderbilt University. She holds a Master of Science degree in English from Jacksonville State University and Education Specialist degree in Education Leadership from Columbus State University. Before joining the Demon Family, she taught English and Social Studies at Houston County Career & Technology Center (now the Houston College & Career Academy).

Holmes was previously an Assistant Principal of Discipline/CTAE Supervisor at Warner Robins High before moving into the role of Assistant Principal of Instruction.  She is married to Darryl Holmes.  They have two children, Traci and Darius.  She is blessed with a precious granddaughter, Ava.