By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Effingham BOE recognized for its standards by GSBA
Placeholder Image

The Effingham County Board of Education has achieved compliance with the Georgia School Boards Association’s “Standards for Local Boards of Education” and was recently recognized by the Association.

The process to seek compliance asks local boards of education to have a review committee examine their policies and practices to see if they comply with the stated set of standards. The GSBA Standards include and go beyond any standards established by state law or the rules and regulations of the Georgia Board of Education.

“By undergoing this process of examination and measurement, the Effingham County Board of Education is showing its willingness to have its policies and practices undergo scrutiny in order to be as effective as possible in governing this school system,” said GSBA Executive Director Sis Henry.

“Compliance with GSBA’s standards represents effort to go beyond what is required by law or state board rules to deliver educational programs to students. Adherence to these quality standards can make a substantial difference in student achievement.”

The GSBA “Standards for Local Boards of Education” covers six major areas of measurement and accountability:
Vision/philosophy
Organization
Board operations
Personnel
Board/staff relations
Board development

Adoption of the standards requires a majority vote by the local board of education. The voluntary program of compliance requires that local boards establish a review committee that includes at least two board members, one administrator and two community leaders to review the board’s operations and determine compliance with the set of standards.

GSBA then reviews all documentation and determines whether the board has satisfactorily completed the process.

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.
Would you like to keep reading?
You have 1 free view remaining. Use your last view to read more.