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Two local grads receive academy appointments
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WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. John Barrow (D-Augusta) has announced that six students in the 12th Congressional District, including two from Effingham County, were appointed to one of the country’s military academies after receiving a nomination from Congressman Barrow.


Dylan Sewell, a graduate of Effingham County High School, received an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Sewell is the son of Stacey and Cindy Sewell.


Cullen Wooten, a graduate of South Effingham High School, received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. He is the son of Michael and Lisa Wooten.


“I’m very proud of these students from the 12th District who’ll continue their education at one our nation’s great military academies,” Barrow said. “They’ve demonstrated academic excellence and a willingness to serve their country. I hope the folks in the 12th District will join me in congratulating them on this tremendous honor, and wish them luck as they begin this great journey.”

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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