By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
ECHS FFA team wins area event
0118 FFA Ag Mechanics Area Win
The ECHS FFA agricultural mechanics team placed first in the Area IV Agricultural Mechanics Career Development Event. Pictured are the team members being congratulated by State FFA Vice President Sierra Milligan. From left to right are Zac Odom, Justin Hinely, Milligan, Lawton Roraback and Markus Taylor. - photo by Photo provided

The Effingham County High FFA agricultural mechanics team won the Area IV FFA Agricultural Mechanics Career Development Event, held at Treutlen County High School in Soperton on Jan. 8.

Team members Justin Hinely, Lawton Roraback, Zac Odom and Markus Taylor will participate in state competition Feb. 9 at Fort Valley State University. The state-winning team will advance to the national competition held in conjunction with the National FFA Convention in Louisville, Ky., in October.

The ECHS team participated in individual problem solving and skill development activities and took a written examination. The event included subject matter associated with machinery and equipment systems and energy systems.

FFA is a national organization of more than 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.

Freddie Waltz, Meredith Arrington and Hannah King are Effingham County High School FFA advisors. The Agricultural Mechanics Career Development Event is sponsored by Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College as a special project of 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.