2025-26 HCSD Parent of the Year

(December 15, 2025) – We are excited to announce that Mrs. Heather Hefley Blenden has been named the Harrison County School District’s 2026 Parent of the Year! Mrs. Blenden was honored this evening by the Harrison County School Board, Superintendent William Bentz, and other district leaders. 
 
Mrs. Blenden and her husband, Brandon “Corey” Blenden, have two sons, Carter and Spencer, who attend Harrison Central High School. 
 
“My sons are thriving at HCHS, and I know a large part of this is because I am an active participant in their lives. Being actively involved in my children’s educational journey is important because it helps me better understand how to support them in meeting their goals and staying engaged,” said Mrs. Blenden. “I believe my involvement doesn’t just positively affect me and my children. A ripple effect occurs as each parent makes a positive impact on their child. It spreads to the classroom, to other students, to teams, and to the school overall.”
 
Mrs. Blenden currently serves as the Technology Student Association Chapter Parent Advisor and has been a member of the Engineering Advisory Committee for the past three years. She has also chaperoned National TSA competitions and dedicated countless hours supporting TSA by sharing grant and fundraising opportunities. In addition, Mrs. Blenden has served as the HCHS Soccer Boosters treasurer for four years. During this time, she has worked to increase community and parental involvement through social media and as a manager on the HC Athletics app. She has assisted with Senior Night and End-of-the-Year Banquet committees for the past three years. She has supported involvement and fundraising efforts by helping plan and volunteer at the annual Jingle Ballers Camp for elementary students in HCHS feeder schools.
 
Her favorite contributions to the soccer teams include delivering pre-game meals and working the concession stand. As a member of the Football Boosters, Mrs. Blenden has attended parent meetings and jamborees and sold programs. She also enjoys assisting with ticket sales at Big Red Night. Mrs. Blenden exemplifies the very best of parent involvement and educational partnership, investing her time and talents to support students, teams, and programs across the district. 
 
Congratulations, Mrs. Blenden, on this well-deserved honor! We truly appreciate you!