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Local students recognized at MLK observance day youth program
Elondia Harden
Elondia Harden - photo by Photo by Sandi Van Orden
Sandi Van Orden
Updated: Jan 22, 2009, 10:50 PM
Published: Jan 22, 2009, 10:26 PM

Local students were awarded for posters and essays at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance Day Youth Program.

Elondia Harden, theme winner, Robin Smith, essay 6-8 grade winner and Jasmine Nethels, essay 9-12 grade winner, all spoke at the event.

There was also singing and praise dancing at the event.

U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. (ret.) Kenneth Bowers gave the “I have a dream” speech.
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)
Updated: Jun 20, 2025, 1:18 PM
Published: Jun 20, 2025, 12:51 PM
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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