By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
ECHS Edwards wins state FFA CDE
Ag Mech Class Fall 2009 100
Pictured from left to right are Dana Perkins, area agricultural mechanics teacher and CDE coordinator, Jesse Edwards, state winner of the FFA Tractor Safety, Operations and Maintenance Career Development Event, and Dr. Freddie Waltz, agricultural mechanics teacher at Effingham County High School. - photo by Photo provided

Effingham County High School FFA member Jesse Edwards recently won the Georgia State Future Farmers of America Agricultural Tractor and Machinery Safety, Operations and Maintenance Career Development Event.  

The state event was held at the Georgia National Fair in Perry on Oct. 9.

Edwards, a junior at Effingham County High School, became eligible to compete in the state event after winning the Area IV Agricultural Tractor and Machinery Safety, Operations and Maintenance Career Development Event on Sept. 8 at Metter High School.  

The Agricultural Tractor and Machinery Safety, Operations and Maintenance Career Development Event allows students to demonstrate the skills necessary to safely and efficiently operate a tractor.  

Participants in the event take a written exam and answer problem solving questions related to tractor servicing, safe operation, care and maintenance. Participants also drive a tractor and are tested on tractor operations.

FFA is a national organization of over 449,000 members preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture.  
FFA is an integral part of the agricultural education program in public schools.  The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

Edwards is the son of Marty and Susanne Edwards of Springfield. Dr. Freddie Waltz, C.J. Satterfield, and Meredith Carey are FFA advisors at ECHS.

The FFA Agricultural Tractor and Machinery Safety, Operations and Maintenance Career Development Event is sponsored by the Georgia FFA Foundation.

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.
Keep reading for free
Enter your email address to continue reading.