Highlands County School Board District 1
Family Support Specialist. Child Advocate. Community Leader. Ordained Minister.
For more than three decades, Chantel Parris has been a trusted advocate for children, families, educators, and community organizations. She is committed to bringing her experience and dedication to the Highlands County School Board as the District 1 representative.
Employed as a Family Support Specialist with the Champion for Children Foundation, Chantel works closely with the local school district, nonprofits, businesses and community partners to prevent child abuse through community awareness and resources. She also worked tirelessly as a child protective investigator for the State of Florida Department of Children and Families.
With a heart for service, Chantel has served as a Guardian ad Litem volunteer, big sister with Big Brothers, Big Sisters. She serves as the children's Church Director at Bountiful Blessings Church to inspire youth to pursue their goals, value education, and believe in their ability to succeed. She also serves on the YMCA board as Governance Committee Leader and Board Member.
A lifelong learner, Chantel graduated from Sebring High School and pursued an Associate of Arts in Church Ministry at South Florida State College. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Transformational Christian Ministry with a Minor in Social Work, and Master of Ministry from Warner University in Lake Wales, Florida. Chantel is also a successful small business owner. Through her business endeavors, she has demonstrated unwavering determination, leadership, and a strong work ethic. Her entrepreneurial spirit not only supports her family but also has proven that one's passion and profession can intersect to create a profound impact.
A lifelong commitment to service, advocacy, and community involvement has shaped my work with students, families, and educators throughout Highlands County. Guided by faith and a passion for helping others, I am committed to continuing that service through the School Board.
Through my experience as a parent advocate, Family Support Specialist, and community leader, I have witnessed the powerful difference that strong schools, engaged families, and dedicated educators make in the lives of children.
I believe every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, every family deserves a voice in their child’s education, and every educator deserves the support and resources needed to help students succeed.
Meet Chantel
Her experience reflects the values of hard work, service, faith, and opportunity.
A graduate of Sebring High School and a member of the Leadership Highlands Class of 2026, Chantel has deep roots in Highlands County and a longstanding commitment to the community she calls home.
Today, Chantel serves as a Family Support Specialist and Social Media Manager with Champion for Children, where she works alongside children, parents, and families.
Invite Chantel to speak →Every decision should begin with one question: How does this help students succeed?
Teachers and staff deserve support, respect, and the resources needed to help students thrive.
Parents are a child’s first teacher. Families deserve transparency, communication, and a seat at the table.
Students learn best when they feel safe, supported, and respected.
Education should prepare students for college, careers, workforce opportunities, and responsible citizenship.
Volunteers are the heart of this campaign. Help make phone calls, send text messages, host a meet and greet, place a yard sign, attend community events, or volunteer on Election Day.
Running a strong campaign takes resources to connect with voters across Highlands County. Your support helps fund voter outreach, campaign materials, community engagement, and efforts to encourage voter participation throughout the election season. Every contribution makes a meaningful difference in helping us share our message and engage with residents across the county.
Questions? Volunteer interest? Request a yard sign? Invite Chantel to speak?