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SEMS Science Olympiad places ninth in state competition
Brings back two medals
04.12 science olym2
State School Superintendent Kathy Cox stands with Brayden Saxon, Shelby Smith, Doug Moore and Michael Edwards - photo by Photo submitted
Compiled Sandi Van Orden
Effingham Herald
Updated: May 3, 2007, 9:02 AM
Published: Apr 11, 2007, 7:58 PM

The SEMS Science Olympiad competed at the State Science Olympiad at Augusta State University on March 24. SEMS placed ninth in the state. Students won medals in the following events:

Storm the Castle (second place): Brayden Saxon and Doug Moore

Mission Possible (third place): Michael Edwards and Shelby Smith
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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