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CCA students tops in ITBS
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Students at Covenant Christian Academy scored in the 99th percentile in three grade levels in the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. - photo by Photo provided
Students at Covenant Christian Academy knocked it out of the park on the ITBS test again.  Each spring CCA administers the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS). This exam helps administrators evaluate the effectiveness of their curriculum and teaching methods. Judging from the scores, they’re doing something right. 
 
The academy’s 2010 ITBS national percentile rankings are:
 
Kindergarten 99th percentile
1st grade 86th percentile
2nd grade 78th percentile
3rd grade 69th percentile
4th grade 92nd percentile
6th grade 99th percentile
8th grade 99th percentile
 
Kindergarten, sixth grade and eight grade classes at CCA scored in the top 1 percent in the nation compared to other schools taking the ITBS this spring. The school attributes the scores to several factors — small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and teamwork with parents. 
 
Covenant Christian Academy is a classical, Christian school located at Highway 80 near the intersection of Highway 119. The school shares the campus of Morningstar Community Church in Faulkville. They are currently enrolling pre-kindergarten through ninth grades for 2010-11. Seating is limited to eight to 10 students per class. You may contact CCA at 748-5754 or visit its Web site at www.ccaeffingham.com.



Effingham School Board Approves $203M budget with Potential Property Tax Increase
2026 budget
This chart illustrates how the Effingham County School District’s $203 million general fund is allocated for fiscal year 2026, including spending on salaries, benefits, transportation, health services, and safety and security. (Courtesy of Effingham School District)
The Effingham County Board of Education approved a $203 million fiscal year 2026 budget Thursday night, reflecting an 11% increase over last year. The rise is largely due to an $8 million spike in health and retirement benefit costs for employees. To help cover the shortfall, the district may raise the property tax millage rate, potentially increasing homeowners’ taxes by up to 12 percent.
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