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ECHS teacher of the month
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Shown are Student Council President Jacoby Jones and ECHS February teacher of the month Michelle Drayton. - photo by Photo provided

The Effingham County High School teacher of the month for February is Michelle Drayton.

Drayton teaches Honors Economics, U.S. History and Sociology. She sponsors the Future Georgia Educators Club as well as Grad Bash.

Students nominated Drayton because they feel she treats her students with respect, fairness, and kindness. In addition, students highlighted Drayton’s constant positive attitude and her ability to make learning fun.

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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