Wendy Smith, the president of the parent-faculty organization at the Ella T. Grasso Technical Southeastern Technical High School in Groton, was among 11 parent volunteers honored Thursday by state education leaders.

Smith received a Parental Involvement Recognition Award during a ceremony hosted by the State Education Resource Center. Thursday’s ceremony coincided with the National Parental Involvement Day.

Smith, who lives in Groton, was nominated with others for making a difference through their continual engagement with their child's school or community.

Smith is also a member of the school’s family engagement team. She led the safe graduation committee and partnered with the student council to sponsor a luncheon on teacher appreciation day. She has also spearheaded numerous fundraisers and other events.