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EMS students make all-state chorus
3.09 EMS choir
Josie Beebe, Brandon Jones, Justin Reid, Taylor Rines, Rachel Wood, Lindsay Bell, Karly Jackson and Dana LaValley participated in the Georgia Music Educator’s Association all-state chorus. - photo by Photo submitted

Eight students from Ebenezer Middle School recently participated in the Georgia Music Educator’s Association (GMEA) All-state Chorus held in Savannah Feb. 21-22.  

In order to qualify for the prestigious chorus, eighth graders Josie Beebe, Brandon Jones, Justin Reid, Taylor Rines, Rachel Wood and seventh graders Lindsay Bell, Karly Jackson and Dana LaValley had to pass a two-part audition where they had to individually sing a prepared solo, sing three different scales and sight-read music they had never seen.  

According to EMS Chorus Director Lawanda Allen, this was the largest All-state Chorus representation ever for the middle school.  “We are very proud of them,” stated Allen.

The GMEA All-state Chorus allows selected students to work with other students of equal caliber under the direction of highly qualified conductors. Selection to a GMEA All-state Chorus is GMEA’s way of recognizing excellence in musical knowledge, technique and interpretation.  Students receiving an All-state Chorus assignment must have first received a passing score at the district audition and then again at the regional audition.

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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