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Three participate in state science, engineering fair
science fair 2

More than 700 students traveled to Athens to compete in the 60th Annual Georgia Science and Engineering Fair.  Among those competing were three of Effingham’s own students: Bryce Blewett (ECMS), Tierney Hagan (ECMS), and Chris Mitchell (SEMS).  

Blewett received the NOAA-Gray’s Reef National Marine Sanctuary Award for his project “Gone Fishin’: Does atmospheric pressure affect fishing differently in rivers compared to ponds?” and Hagan received the University of Georgia Cellular Biology Award for her project, “Spicy Science: Which spice kills the most bacteria in cooking?”

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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