By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Effingham Teacher of the Year a finalist for state honor
Heather Cocke
Heather Cocke, the Effingham County School System teacher of the year, is one of 10 finalists for the state teacher of the year.

http://www.effinghamschools.com/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=611&ModuleInstanceID=4862&ViewID=047E6BE3-6D87-4130-8424-D8E4E9ED6C2A&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=43886&PageID=4367

http://www.effinghamherald.net/archives/32785/

The reigning Effingham County teacher of the year, Ebenezer Middle School English and language arts teacher Heather Cocke, has been named one of 10 finalists for the state teacher of the year.

“Mrs. Cocke is an amazing teacher,” said EMS Principal Amie Dickerson. “Her passion for teaching and reaching students is evident in her classroom daily. The experience she extends to her students is awesome and builds a true love of learning.”

The 2017 winner will travel around the state and the nation, serving as an ambassador for the teaching profession. The winner also will be entered in the national teacher of the year competition.

The 10 finalists were chosen from a pool of 155 applicants. The panel of judges included teachers, past state teachers of the year winners and finalists, administrators, community leaders and others.

Over the next several weeks, a panel of judges will conduct video observations and interviews and hear speeches given by the finalists. The winner will be announced in mid-May.

The teacher of the year program is marking its 45thyear and an anniversary gala will be held in Savannah.

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.