By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
EMS cheerleaders take first, second
Battle in the Boro
The EMS competition Cheerleaders won Battle in the 'Boro. - photo by Photo provided

On Oct. 31, the Ebenezer Middle School competition cheerleaders competed in the Battle of the 'Boro, placing first in the middle school division of the cheerleading competition hosted by Statesboro High School.

Abi Johnson won the tumble-off. The stunt group of Maddie Feathers, Hunter Kelly, Crista LiCausi, Cheyenne Muller, and Summer Shropshire won the basket toss competition.

EMS also placed second on Nov. 6 at the Coastal Empire Middle School Region competition at Southeast Bulloch High School.

In the individual competitions at the regional competition Abi Johnson won both the tumble-off and the jump-off.

Team members are: Caroline Brennan, Abi Johnson, Katie Lewis, Hunter Kelly, Maddie Feathers, Mattie Saxon, Brooke Boyette, Michelle Pratt, Cheyenne Muller, Crista LiCausi, Morgan Goss, Lauren Morgan, Hunter Jordan, Brooklyn Williams, Summer Shropshire, Haylie Rush, Bayleah Duclos and Nique Adkins.

Coaches are Shawn Baker and LaToya Jefferson.

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.