SPRINGFIELD, Ga. — Effingham County school leaders are proposing to raise the property tax rate to keep pace with rapid growth, maintain smaller class sizes, and attract and retain top teachers.

The Board of Education’s tentative plan would increase the millage rate from 16.5 to 18.45 mills. For a homeowner with a $350,000 house, the change would mean paying about $273 more a year, or roughly $22 per month.

The proposal will be discussed at three public hearings: Wednesday, Sept. 10, at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., and Thursday, Sept. 18, at 6 p.m. at the district office, 405 North Ash Street in Springfield.

Why Increase Is Needed

District officials said the increase is necessary to cover rising costs and to remain competitive in attracting and retaining teachers and staff. More than 87% of the district’s budget goes to salaries and benefits for employees ranging from classroom teachers to bus drivers, nurses, counselors, paraprofessionals, and administrators.

Superintendent Yancy Ford said the adjustment is an investment in students’ futures. “Smaller class sizes, highly qualified teachers, and strong support staff are all proven to raise student achievement,” Ford said. “This millage rate increase allows us to continue building on our successes and to make sure every child in Effingham County has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.”

Fiscal Accountability

While the rate itself would climb by about 11.5%, rising property values mean overall revenue collections would jump nearly 26%. The additional money, school leaders say, will help preserve Effingham’s strong academic record, which includes a 90.7% graduation rate, higher-than-average reading scores in elementary grades, and SAT results that top both state and national averages. The district also boasts a 91% teacher retention rate.

Finance Director Lauren Cain emphasized accountability in managing taxpayer funds. “Every dollar from this millage rate increase is an investment directly tied to student learning,” she said.

Effingham Schools also highlighted its strong fiscal management. The Georgia Department of Education recently awarded the district a 4.5 Financial Efficiency Star Rating, ranking it fourth out of 180 school systems statewide, underscoring the district’s commitment to being good stewards of taxpayer dollars.