The Effingham County School System has been recognized by the state Department of Education for its excellence in the education of students with disabilities.

Effingham schools were honored for meeting the state’s target in educating students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment and for meeting the state target in reducing the number of students with disabilities who drop out.

“That’s the main mission of this board, and of mine,” said Superintendent Randy Shearouse, “and we’re just very pleased to receive this recognition.”

Shearouse presented the certificate to Dr. Gordon Riffel, exceptional children coordinator for the school system.

“I know you don’t do it alone,” Shearouse said, “but we appreciate your hard work.”

Riffel said those kinds of recognitions are nice.

“It’s nice for the state to recognize us. The good thing about this is it takes a team,” he said, “and we have a team here in our county that works together to help all kids learn and grow.

“It certainly is a privilege and a pleasure to be a part of that team.”