Annual financial report, fiscal year 2023, Effingham County Board of Education, Springfield, Georgia, including independent auditor's report.

ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT FISCAL YEAR 2023
Effingham County Board of Education
Springfield, Georgia
Including Independent Auditor's Report
Greg S. Griffin | State Auditor

Effingham County Board of Education

Table of Contents

Section I Financial
Independent Auditor's Report

Required Supplementary Information

Management's Discussion and Analysis

i

Exhibits

Basic Financial Statements

Government-Wide Financial Statements

A

Statement of Net Position

1

B

Statement of Activities

2

Fund Financial Statements

C

Balance Sheet

Governmental Funds

3

D

Reconciliation of the Governmental Funds Balance Sheet

to the Statement of Net Position

4

E

Statement of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balances

Governmental Funds

5

F

Reconciliation of the Governmental Funds Statement of

Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balances

to the Statement of Activities

6

G Notes to the Basic Financial Statements

7

Schedules

Required Supplementary Information

1 Schedule of Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability

Teachers Retirement System of Georgia

37

2 Schedule of Contributions Teachers Retirement System of Georgia

38

3 Schedule of Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability

Employees' Retirement System of Georgia

39

4 Schedule of Contributions Employees' Retirement System of Georgia

40

5 Schedule of Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability

Public School Employees Retirement System of Georgia

41

Required Supplementary Information (Continued)

6 Schedule of Proportionate Share of the Net OPEB Liability

School OPEB Fund

42

7 Schedule of Contributions School OPEB Fund

43

8 Notes to the Required Supplementary Information

44

9 Schedule of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund

Balances - Budget and Actual General Fund

46

Supplementary Information

10 Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards

47

11 Schedule of State Revenue

49

12 Schedule of Approved Local Option Sales Tax Projects

50

Section II
Compliance and Internal Control Reports
Independent Auditor's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and on Compliance and Other Matters Based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed in Accordance with Government Auditing Standards

Independent Auditor's Report on Compliance for Each Major Federal Program and on Internal Control Over Compliance Required by the Uniform Guidance

Section III Auditee's Response to Prior Year Findings and Questioned Costs
Summary Schedule of Prior Audit Findings

Section IV Findings and Questioned Costs
Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs

Section V Management's Corrective Action for Current Year Findings
Schedule of Management's Corrective Action

Section I Financial

Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT
The Honorable Brian P. Kemp, Governor of Georgia Members of the General Assembly of the State of Georgia Members of the State Board of Education
and Dr. Yancy Ford, Superintendent and Members of the Effingham County Board of Education
Report on the Audit of the Financial Statements
Opinions
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the governmental activities and each major fund of the Effingham County Board of Education (School District) as of and for the year ended June 30, 2023, and the related notes to the financial statements, which collectively comprise the School District's basic financial statements as listed in the table of contents.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the respective financial position of the governmental activities and each major fund of the School District as of June 30, 2023, and the respective changes in financial position for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinions
We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS) and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report.
We are required to be independent of the School District and to meet our other ethical responsibilities, in accordance with the relevant ethical requirements relating to our audit. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinions.
Responsibilities of Management for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
270 Washington Street, SW, Suite 4-101 Atlanta, Georgia 30334 | Phone (404) 656-2180

In preparing the financial statements, management is required to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the School District's ability to continue as a going concern for twelve months beyond the financial statement date, including any currently known information that may raise substantial doubt shortly thereafter.
Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinions. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with GAAS and Government Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Misstatements are considered material if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, they would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user based on the financial statements.
In performing an audit in accordance with GAAS and Government Auditing Standards, we:
Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.
Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.
Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.
Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluate the overall presentation of the financial statements.
Conclude whether, in our judgment, there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the School District's ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.
We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit, significant audit findings, and certain internal control related matters that we identified during the audit.
Required Supplementary Information
Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America require that the Management's Discussion and Analysis and required supplementary information listed in the table of contents be presented to supplement the basic financial statements. Such information is the responsibility of management and, although not a part of the basic financial statements, is required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board who considers it to be an essential part of financial reporting for placing the basic financial statements in an appropriate operational, economic, or

historical context. We have applied certain limited procedures to the required supplementary information in accordance with GAAS, which consisted of inquiries of management about the methods of preparing the information and comparing the information for consistency with management's responses to our inquiries, the basic financial statements, and other knowledge we obtained during our audit of the basic financial statements. We do not express an opinion or provide any assurance on the information because the limited procedures do not provide us with sufficient appropriate evidence to express an opinion or provide any assurance.
Supplementary Information
Our audit was conducted for the purpose of forming opinions on the financial statements that collectively comprise the School District's basic financial statements. The accompanying supplementary information, as listed in the table of contents, is presented for the purposes of additional analysis and is not a required part of the basic financial statements. The Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards is presented for purposes of additional analysis as required by Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, and is also not a required part of the basic financial statements.
The supplementary information is the responsibility of management and was derived from and relates directly to the underlying accounting and other records used to prepare the basic financial statements. Such information has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit of the basic financial statements and certain additional procedures, including comparing and reconciling such information directly to the underlying accounting and other records used to prepare the basic financial statements or to the basic financial statements themselves, and other additional procedures in accordance with GAAS. In our opinion, the information is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the basic financial statements as a whole.
Other Reporting Required by Government Auditing Standards
In accordance with Government Auditing Standards, we have also issued our report dated November 12, 2024 on our consideration of the School District's internal control over financial reporting and on our tests of its compliance with certain provisions of laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements and other matters. The purpose of that report is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control over financial reporting and compliance and the results of that testing, and not to provide an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control over financial reporting or on compliance. That report is an integral part of an audit performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards in considering the School District's internal control over financial reporting and compliance.
A copy of this report has been filed as a permanent record and made available to the press of the State, as provided for by Official Code of Georgia Annotated section 50-6-24.
Respectfully submitted,
Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
November 12, 2024

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023 ______________________________________________________________________________
INTRODUCTION
The Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") of the Effingham County Board of Education's (the "School District") financial performance provides an overview of the School District's financial activities for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023. The intent of this MD&A is to look at the School District's financial performance as a whole. Readers should also review the financial statements and the notes to the basic financial statements to enhance their understanding of the School District's financial performance.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Key financial highlights for the fiscal year 2023 are as follows:
On the government-wide financial statements, the fiscal year 2023 liabilities and deferred inflows of resources of the School District exceeded assets and deferred outflows of resources by $6.4 million. The fiscal year 2022 liabilities and deferred inflows of resources exceeded assets and deferred outflows of resources by $12.5 million.
The School District had $191.1 million and $158.3 million in expenses relating to governmental activities for the fiscal years ended June 30, 2023, and June 30, 2022, respectively. Only $109.5 million and $111.7 million of the above-mentioned expenses for 2023 and 2022 were offset by program specific charges for services, grants and contributions. General revenues (primarily property and sales taxes) of $85.4 million and $77.1 million, respectively, for 2023 and 2022, along with the beginning net position were also utilized to provide for these programs.
OVERVIEW OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
This annual report consists of three parts: the MD&A, the basic financial statements, and supplementary information. The basic financial statements include two levels of statements that present different views of the School District. These include the government-wide and fund financial statements.
The government-wide financial statements include the Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities. These statements provide information about the activities of the School District presenting both short-term and long-term information about the overall financial status.
The fund financial statements focus on the individual parts, reporting the School District's operation in more detail. The governmental funds statements disclose how basic services are financed in the short-term as well as what remains for future spending.
The fund financial statements reflect the School District's most significant funds. For the years ended June 30, 2023, and 2022, the general fund, the capital projects fund, and the debt service fund represent the most significant funds.
i

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023 ______________________________________________________________________________
The financial statements also include notes that explain some of the information in the statements and provide more detailed data. The statements are followed by a section of required supplementary information that further explains and supports the financial statements. Additionally, other supplementary information (not required) is also presented that further supplements understanding of the financial statements.
Government-Wide Statements
The government-wide statements report information about the School District as a whole using accounting methods similar to those used by private-sector companies. The Statement of Net Position includes all of the School District's assets, deferred outflows of resources, liabilities, and deferred inflows of resources. All of the current fiscal year's revenues and expenses are accounted for in the Statement of Activities regardless of when cash is received or paid.
The two government-wide statements report the School District's net position and how it has changed. Net position, the difference between the School District's assets, deferred outflows of resources, liabilities and deferred inflows of resources, are one way to measure the School District's overall financial health or position. Over time, increases or decreases in net position are an indication of whether its financial health is improving or deteriorating. Changes may be the result of many factors, including those not under the School District's control, such as the property tax base, facility conditions, required educational programs and other factors.
In the Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities, the School District has one distinct type of activity:
Governmental Activities All of the School District's programs and services are reported here including instruction, support services, operation and maintenance of plant, pupil transportation, food service, student activity accounts and various others.
Fund Financial Statements
The School District's fund financial statements provide detailed information about the most significant funds, not the School District as a whole. Some funds are required by State law and some by bond requirements. The School District's major governmental funds are the general fund, the capital projects fund, and the debt service fund.
Governmental Funds The School District's activities are reported in governmental funds, which focus on how money flows into, and out of those funds, and the balances left at year-end available for spending in future periods. These funds are reported using the modified accrual basis of accounting, which measures cash and all other financial assets that can readily be converted to cash. The governmental fund statements provide a detailed short-term view of the School District's general government operations and the basic services it provides. Governmental fund information helps determine whether there are more or fewer financial resources that can be spent in the near future to finance educational programs. The relationship (or differences) between governmental activities (reported in the Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities) and governmental funds are reconciled in the financial statements.
ii

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023 ______________________________________________________________________________

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT AS A WHOLE

Recall that the Statement of Net Position provides the perspective of the School District as a whole. Table 1 provides a summary of the School District's net position for fiscal years 2023 and 2022.

Table 1 Net Position

Governmental Activities

Fiscal Year

Fiscal Year

2023

2022

Assets Current and other assets Capital assets, Net
Total assets

$ 105,486,433 $ 154,658,109
260,144,542

110,455,655 137,737,354
248,193,009

Deferred outflows of resources Related to defined benefit pension plans Related to OPEB plan
Total deferred outflows of resources

96,257,333 19,104,772
115,362,105

42,638,879 18,043,301
60,682,180

Liabilities Current and other liabilities Long-term liabilities Net pension liability Net OPEB lLiability
Total liabilities

30,405,898 50,961,544 195,426,458 65,178,188
341,972,088

28,576,978 54,712,920 52,919,693 69,969,419
206,179,010

Deferred inflows of resources Related to defined benefit pension plans Related to OPEB plan
Total deferred inflows of resources

1,018,903 38,875,084
39,893,987

77,326,802 37,893,421
115,220,223

Net (deficit) position Net investment in capital assets Restricted Unrestricted (deficit)

129,407,379 16,926,157
(152,692,964)

125,824,322 14,393,590
(152,741,956)

Total net (deficit) position

$

(6,359,428) $

(12,524,044)

Total assets and deferred outflows of resources increased by $66.6 million. Total liabilities and deferred inflows of resources increased by $60.5 million. The combination of the increase in total assets and deferred outflows of resources and the increase in total liabilities and deferred inflows of resources yielded an increase in net position of $6.1 million.

iii

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023 ______________________________________________________________________________

Table 2 shows the changes in net position for fiscal years ended June 30, 2023, and June 30, 2022.

Table 2 Change in Net Position

Revenues Program revenues: Charges for services Operating grants and contributions Capital grants and contributions
Total program revenues

Governmental Activities

Fiscal Year

Fiscal Year

2023

2022

$ 2,532,534 $ 106,435,841 528,660
109,497,035

253,751 111,425,368
21,818
111,700,937

General revenues: Taxes: Maintenance and operations Sales taxes Other taxes Grants and contributions not restricted to specific programs Investment earnings Miscellaneous Special Item
Total general revenues and special item

44,118,541 18,629,195 2,450,540 12,793,400
906,171 6,520,769 2,317,536
87,736,152

41,122,381 16,583,504 2,168,630 12,323,774
(196,498) 5,142,825
-
77,144,616

Total revenues

197,233,187

188,845,553

Expenses Instruction Support services: Pupil services Improvement of instructional services Educational media services General administration School administration Business administration Maintenance and operations Student transportation Operations of non-instructional services: Community Services Food services operations Interest on long-term debt
Total expenses

118,909,491
10,024,101 7,647,369 2,554,215 3,800,240 11,342,458 2,877,446 12,498,456 10,798,991
7,046 9,304,108 1,304,650
191,068,571

101,815,440
8,757,877 6,448,531 2,160,502 3,126,300 8,127,841 2,599,688 9,640,172 7,247,050
7,668,684
701,181
158,293,266

Change in net position

6,164,616

30,552,287

Net (deficit), beginning of year

(12,524,044) (43,076,331)

Net (deficit), end of year

$ (6,359,428) $ (12,524,044)

iv

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023 ______________________________________________________________________________

Program revenues, in the form of charges for services, operating grants and contributions and capital grants and contributions decreased $2.2 million for governmental activities. This decrease is largely due to federal grant funding decreases. General revenues increased by $8.3 million. The increase is mostly due to an increase in property tax maintenance and operations revenues of $3.0 million, a sales tax increase of $2.0 million, and a miscellaneous revenue increase of $1.4 million.

Governmental Activities

The Statement of Activities shows the cost of program services and the charges for services and grants offsetting those services. Table 3 shows, for governmental activities, the total cost of services and the net cost of services. Net cost of services can be defined as the total cost less fees generated by the activities and intergovernmental revenue provided for specific programs. The net cost reflects the financial burden on the School District's taxpayers by each activity.

Table 3 Governmental Activities

Total Cost of Services

Fiscal

Fiscal

Year 2023

Year 2022

Net Cost of Services

Fiscal

Fiscal

Year 2023

Year 2022

Instruction

$ 118,909,491 $

Support services:

Pupil services

10,024,101

Improvement of instructional

services

7,647,369

Educational media services

2,554,215

General administration

3,800,240

School administration

11,342,458

Business administration

2,877,446

Maintenance and operations

12,498,456

Student transportation

10,798,991

Operations of non-instructional

services:

Community Services

7,046

Food services operations

9,304,108

Interest on long-term debt

1,304,650

101,815,440 $
8,757,877
6,448,531 2,160,502 3,126,300 8,127,841 2,599,688 9,640,172 7,247,050
7,668,684
701,181

36,383,222 $
9,033,054
5,848,857 551,612
1,496,403 7,711,699 2,832,346 6,756,581 8,494,877
7,046 1,151,189 1,304,650

15,735,111
7,855,788
4,775,767 272,597 898,001
4,681,545 2,419,586 5,635,244 7,119,230
(3,501,721)
701,181

Total expenses

$ 191,068,571 $ 158,293,266 $ 81,571,536 $ 46,592,329

Although program revenues make up a majority of the funding, the School District is still dependent upon tax revenues for governmental activities. For 2023, 42.7% of total expenses were supplemented by taxes and other general revenues compared to 29.4% in 2022.

Expenses increased $32.8 million from the prior year, the net costs of providing services increased $35.0 million. This situation occurred largely because of required adjustments decreasing the net pension and OPEB liabilities, thereby increasing expenses.

v

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023 ______________________________________________________________________________

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT'S FUNDS

The School District's governmental funds are accounted for using the modified accrual basis of accounting. The governmental funds had total revenues and other financing sources of $203.2 million and total expenditures and other financing uses of $209.0 million. There was a decrease in the fund balance totaling $5.8 million for the governmental funds as a whole. This decrease is largely due to federal grant funding decreases.

General Fund Budgeting Highlights

The School District's budget is prepared according to Georgia Law. The most significant budgeted fund is the general fund, funded primarily through state revenue and local property tax revenue. During the course of fiscal years 2023 and 2022, the School District amended its general fund budget as needed.

During fiscal year 2023, the general fund had final actual revenues totaling $177.5 million, which represented an increase from the final budgeted amount of $153.8 million by $23.6 million. This difference was primarily due to increased QBE funding, federal funding, local tax collections and school activity revenues which were not budgeted.

Final actual expenditures during fiscal year 2023 totaling $171.2 million represented an increase from the final budgeted amount of $154.9 million by $16.3 million. The increase in actual expenditures versus final budget expenditures was primarily a result of operational increases due to the continued student population growth.

CAPITAL ASSETS

At the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023, and June 30, 2022, the School District had $154.7 million and $137.7 million, respectively, invested in capital assets, net of accumulated depreciation. These assets are made up of a broad range of capital assets, including land; buildings; transportation, food service and maintenance equipment. Table 4 reflects a summary of these balances, by class, net of accumulated depreciation.
Table 4 Capital Assets (Net of Depreciation)

Governmental Activities Fiscal Year 2023 Fiscal Year 2022

Land Construction in progress Building and improvements Equipment Land improvements

$

9,128,258 $

13,952,888

119,616,396

6,546,108

5,414,459

7,155,569 8,746,623 114,303,046 5,634,950 1,897,166

Total

$ 154,658,109 $

137,737,354

vi

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023 ______________________________________________________________________________

The overall capital assets increased in fiscal year 2023 by $16.9 million due to an increase in land purchases, construction in progress, continued investment in buildings, and equipment.

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

At June 30, 2023, the School District had $311.6 million in total long-term liabilities with $2.7 million due within one year. Table 5 summarizes long-term liabilities at June 30, 2023, and 2022.

Governmental activities: General Obligation Bonds Unamortized Bond Premiums Net Pension Liability Net OPEB Liability
Governmental activities: Long-Term Liabilities

Balance July 1, 2022

Additions

Re ductions

Balance

Due Within

June 30, 2023 One Year

$ 47,800,000 $

- $

(3,175,000) $

44,625,000 $ 2,155,000

6,912,920

-

(576,376)

6,336,544

538,270

52,919,693

165,181,233

(22,674,468)

195,426,458

-

69,969,419

10,242,357

(15,033,588)

65,178,188

-

$ 177,602,032 $ 175,423,590 $ (41,459,432) $ 311,566,190 $ 2,693,270

CURRENT ISSUES

Approximately 81.0% of general fund expenditures, the main operating fund for the School District, were related to salaries and employee benefits for the year ended June 30, 2023. The general fund expenditures mostly consist of personnel expenditures which include mandated benefit expenditures such as TRS and health insurance. The School District consistently evaluates how funds can be spent efficiently and more effectively to ensure that our students receive a quality education from effective personnel.

The School District's millage rate for fiscal year 2023 was 15.810. The net digest has continued to increase during fiscal years 2023 and 2022. The net digest for fiscal year 2023 was $2.7 billion, which produced approximately $2.7 million of property tax per mill. Property tax and sales tax were responsible for covering 34.1% of the School District's costs. It is anticipated that this pressure to provide local monies to meet mandated educational requirements and operational costs will continue.

General fund revenues were positively impacted in fiscal year 2023 by positive growth in QBE funding and in local tax collections. The School District remains vigilant at controlling costs; however, year over year spending increases were attributable to state mandated increases for teacher salaries, increased special education costs, and increases in employee benefit costs. Through continued rigorous expenditure management, the general fund revenues exceeded expenditures in 2023, thereby adding to the financial strength of the School District.

Fiscal year 2023 saw the completion of the classroom expansion at Blandford Elementary and Sandhill Elementary and numerous maintenance projects. All of these projects were funded with a combination of Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax ("ESPLOST"), Series 2022 Bond Construction funds and local revenues.

vii

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023 ______________________________________________________________________________ CONTACTING THE SCHOOL DISTRICT'S FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT This financial report is designed to provide our citizens, taxpayers, investors, and creditors with a general overview of the School District's finances and to show the School District's accountability for the money it receives. If you have questions about this report or need additional financial information, contact Ronald Wilson at the Effingham County Board of Education, 405 North Ash Street, Springfield, GA. 31329. You may also email your questions to rlwilson@effingham.k12.ga.us.
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Effingham County Board of Education

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION STATEMENT OF NET POSITION JUNE 30, 2023
ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents Investments Accounts Receivable, Net
Interest Taxes State Government Federal Government Other Inventories Restricted Assets Cash held by Trustee Capital Assets, Non-Depreciable Capital Assets, Depreciable (Net of Accumulated Depreciation)
Total Assets
DEFERRED OUTFLOWS OF RESOURCES Related to Defined Benefit Pension Plans Related to OPEB Plan
Total Deferred Outflows of Resources
LIABILITIES Accounts Payable Salaries and Benefits Payable Interest Payable Contracts Payable Retainages Payable Net Pension Liability Net OPEB Liability Long-Term Liabilities
Due Within One Year Due in More Than One Year
Total Liabilities
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES Related to Defined Benefit Pension Plans Related to OPEB Plan
Total Deferred Inflows of Resources
NET POSITION Net Investment in Capital Assets Restricted for
Continuation of Federal Programs Debt Service Capital Projects Unrestricted (Deficit)
Total Net Position

EXHIBIT "A"

GOVERNMENTAL ACTIVITIES

$

68,705,873

15,716,962

2,246 4,402,150 12,312,976
763,609 401,272 105,901

3,075,444 23,081,146 131,576,963 260,144,542

96,257,333 19,104,772 115,362,105

5,123,875 16,875,146
602,700 6,010,708 1,793,469 195,426,458 65,178,188
2,693,270 48,268,274 341,972,088

1,018,903 38,875,084 39,893,987

129,407,379

7,246,728 2,474,990 7,204,439 (152,692,964)

$

(6,359,428)

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 1 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "B"

GOVERNMENTAL ACTIVITIES

Instruction

$

Support Services

Pupil Services

Improvement of Instructional Services

Educational Media Services

General Administration

School Administration

Business Administration

Maintenance and Operation of Plant

Student Transportation Services

Operations of Non-Instructional Services

Community Services

Food Services

Interest on Long-Term Debt

EXPENSES

CHARGES FOR SERVICES

PROGRAM REVENUES
OPERATING GRANTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS

CAPITAL GRANTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS

NET (EXPENSES) REVENUES
AND CHANGES IN NET POSITION

118,909,491 $
10,024,101 7,647,369 2,554,215 3,800,240
11,342,458 2,877,446
12,498,456 10,798,991
7,046 9,304,108 1,304,650

- $
-
2,532,534
-

82,526,269 $
991,047 1,798,512 2,002,603 2,303,837 3,630,759
45,100 5,741,875 1,775,454
5,620,385
-

- $
528,660
-

(36,383,222)
(9,033,054) (5,848,857)
(551,612) (1,496,403) (7,711,699) (2,832,346) (6,756,581) (8,494,877)
(7,046) (1,151,189) (1,304,650)

Total Governmental Activities

$

191,068,571 $

2,532,534 $

106,435,841 $

528,660

(81,571,536)

General Revenues Taxes Property Taxes For Maintenance and Operations Other Taxes Sales Taxes Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax For Capital Projects Grants and Contributions not Restricted to Specific Programs Investment Earnings Miscellaneous
Special Item Gain on Sale of Capital Assets Total General Revenues and Special Item

44,118,541 2,450,540
18,629,195 12,793,400
906,171 6,520,769
2,317,536 87,736,152

Change in Net Position

6,164,616

Net Position - Beginning of Year

(12,524,044)

Net Position - End of Year

$

(6,359,428)

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 2 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION BALANCE SHEET
GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "C"

ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents Investments Accounts Receivable, Net
Interest Taxes State Government Federal Government Other Inventories Restricted Assets Cash held by Trustee
Total Assets
LIABILITIES Accounts Payable Salaries and Benefits Payable Contracts Payable Retainages Payable
Total Liabilities
DEFERRED INFLOWS OF RESOURCES Unavailable Revenue - Property Taxes
FUND BALANCES Nonspendable Restricted Assigned Unassigned
Total Fund Balances
Total Liabilities, Deferred Inflows of Resources, and Fund Balances

GENERAL FUND

CAPITAL PROJECTS
FUND

DEBT SERVICE FUND

TOTAL

$

45,746,174 $

22,959,699 $

-

15,716,962

3,139,102 12,312,976
763,609 376,364 105,901

1,263,048
24,908 -

-

-

$

62,444,126 $

39,964,617 $

- $ -
2,246 -
3,075,444
3,077,690 $

68,705,873 15,716,962
2,246 4,402,150 12,312,976
763,609 401,272 105,901
3,075,444
105,486,433

5,106,492 16,875,146
21,981,638

17,383 -
6,010,708 1,793,469 7,821,560

-

5,123,875

-

16,875,146

-

6,010,708

-

1,793,469

-

29,803,198

2,291,607

-

-

2,291,607

105,901 7,140,827 3,841,982 27,082,171 38,170,881

32,143,057
32,143,057

3,077,690
3,077,690

105,901 42,361,574
3,841,982 27,082,171 73,391,628

$

62,444,126 $

39,964,617 $

3,077,690 $

105,486,433

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 3 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION RECONCILIATION OF THE GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS BALANCE SHEET
TO THE STATEMENT OF NET POSITION JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "D"

Total fund balances - governmental funds (Exhibit "C")
Amounts reported for governmental activities in the Statement of Net Position are different because:
Capital assets used in governmental activities are not financial resources and therefore are not reported in the funds. Land Construction in progress Buildings and improvements Equipment Land improvements Accumulated depreciation
Some liabilities are not due and payable in the current period and, therefore, are not reported in the funds. Net pension liability Net OPEB liability
Deferred outflows and inflows of resources related to pensions/OPEB are applicable to future periods and, therefore, are not reported in the funds. Related to pensions Related to OPEB
Taxes that are not available to pay for current period expenditures are deferred in the funds.
Long-term liabilities, and related accrued interest, are not due and payable in the current period and therefore are not reported in the funds. Bonds payable Accrued interest payable Unamortized bond premiums
Net position of governmental activities (Exhibit "A")

$

73,391,628

$

9,128,258

13,952,888

200,252,792

23,253,218

17,939,017

(109,868,064)

154,658,109

$

(195,426,458)

(65,178,188)

(260,604,646)

$

95,238,430

(19,770,312)

75,468,118 2,291,607

$

(44,625,000)

(602,700)

(6,336,544)

(51,564,244)

$

(6,359,428)

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 4 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES
GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "E"

REVENUES Property Taxes Sales Taxes Other Taxes State Funds Federal Funds Charges for Services Investment Earnings Miscellaneous Total Revenues
EXPENDITURES Current Instruction Support Services Pupil Services Improvement of Instructional Services Educational Media Services General Administration School Administration Business Administration Maintenance and Operation of Plant Student Transportation Services Community Services Food Services Operation Capital Outlay Debt Services Principal Interest Total Expenditures
Revenues over (under) Expenditures
OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) Proceeds from Sale of Capital Assets Transfers In Transfers Out Total Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Net Change in Fund Balances
Fund Balances - Beginning
Fund Balances - Ending

GENERAL FUND

CAPITAL PROJECTS
FUND

DEBT SERVICE
FUND

TOTAL

$

45,253,288 $

1,091,672

2,450,540

101,736,139

17,863,277

2,532,534

24,623

6,520,769

177,472,842

- $ 17,537,523
840,046 18,377,569

- $ 41,502 41,502

45,253,288 18,629,195
2,450,540 101,736,139
17,863,277 2,532,534 906,171 6,520,769
195,891,913

109,387,919
9,440,381 7,257,335 2,215,384 3,702,935 10,000,308 2,073,990 12,034,186 7,666,840
7,046 7,328,570
98,536
171,213,430 6,259,412

3,371,229 195 -
3,371,424

9,630,836

28,540,045

$

38,170,881 $

335,681
1,079,046 27,242,354
28,657,081 (10,279,512)
(3,963,101) (3,963,101)
(14,242,613)
46,385,670
32,143,057 $

-
-
3,175,000 1,980,819 5,155,819 (5,114,317)

109,723,600
9,440,381 7,257,335 2,215,384 3,702,935 10,000,308 2,073,990 12,034,186 8,745,886
7,046 7,328,570 27,340,890
3,175,000 1,980,819 205,026,330 (9,134,417)

3,962,906
3,962,906
(1,151,411)
4,229,101
3,077,690 $

3,371,229 3,963,101 (3,963,101) 3,371,229
(5,763,188)
79,154,816
73,391,628

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 5 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION RECONCILIATION OF THE GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS STATEMENT OF
REVENUES, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES TO THE STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "F"

Net change in fund balances total governmental funds (Exhibit "E")
Amounts reported for governmental activities in the Statement of Activities are different because:
Governmental funds report capital outlays as expenditures. However, in the Statement of Activities, the cost of capital assets is allocated over their estimated useful lives as depreciation expense. Capital outlay Depreciation expense
The net effect of various miscellaneous transactions involving capital assets (i.e., sales, trade-ins, donations, and disposals) is to decrease net position.
Taxes reported in the Statement of Activities that do not provide current financial resources are not reported as revenues in the funds.
The issuance of long-term debt provides current financial resources to governmental funds, while the repayment of the principal of long-term debt consumes the current financial resources of governmental funds. Neither transaction, however, has any effect on net position. Also, governmental funds report the effect of premiums, discounts and the difference between the carrying value of refunded debt and the acquisition cost of refunded debt when debt is first issued. These amounts are deferred and amortized in the Statement of Activities. Bond principal retirements Bond premium amortization expense
District pension/OPEB contributions are reported as expenditures in the governmental funds when made. However, they are reported as deferred outflows of resources in the Statement of Net Position because the reported net pension/OPEB liability is measured a year before the District's report date. Pension/OPEB expense, which is the change in the net pension/OPEB liability adjusted for changes in deferred outflows and inflows of resources related to pensions/OPEB, is reported in the Statement of Activities. Pension expense OPEB expense
Some items reported in the Statement of Activities do not require the use of current financial resources and therefore are not reported as expenditures in governmental funds. Change in accrued interest
Change in net position of governmental activities (Exhibit "B")

$

(5,763,188)

$

24,865,149

(6,879,188)

17,985,961 (1,065,206) (1,134,747)

$

3,175,000

576,376

3,751,376

$

(12,580,412)

4,871,039

(7,709,373)

99,793

$

6,164,616

The notes to the basic financial statements are an integral part of this statement.

- 6 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

NOTE 1: DESCRIPTION OF SCHOOL DISTRICT AND REPORTING ENTITY
Reporting Entity
The Effingham County Board of Education (School District) was established under the laws of the State of Georgia and operates under the guidance of a board elected by the voters and a Superintendent appointed by the Board. The School District is organized as a separate legal entity and has the power to levy taxes and issue bonds. Its budget is not subject to approval by any other entity. Accordingly, the School District is a primary government and consists of all the organizations that compose its legal entity.
Blended Component Unit
The Effingham College and Career Academy (the "Charter School") is responsible for the public education of all students attending its schools and is an authorized start-up charter school pursuant to the Official Code of Georgia Annotated ("O.C.G.A.") 20-2-2060 et seq., the Charter School Act of 1998. The Charter School was created through an agreement between the School District, the Charter School and the State Board of Education whereby certain State funding associated with the students attending the Charter School and certain specified local funds are turned over to the Charter School to cover the cost of its operations. The Charter School's mission is to create high-tech career focus to better serve students' needs for those entering directly into the workforce from high school and those planning further post-secondary options. The Charter School's policymaking governing board is subject to the control and management of the School District. The financial statements of the Charter School have been reported with the School District's general fund.
NOTE 2: SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The accompanying financial statements of the School District have been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as prescribed by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB). GASB is the accepted standard-setting body for governmental accounting and financial reporting principles. The most significant of the School District's accounting policies are described below.
Basis of Presentation
The School District's basic financial statements are collectively comprised of the government-wide financial statements, fund financial statements and notes to the basic financial statements. The government-wide statements focus on the School District as a whole, while the fund financial statements focus on major funds. Each presentation provides valuable information that can be analyzed and compared between years and between governments to enhance the information's usefulness.
Government-Wide Statements:
The Statement of Net Position and the Statement of Activities display information about the financial activities of the overall School District, and its component unit. Eliminations have been made to minimize the double counting of internal activities. Governmental activities generally are financed through taxes, intergovernmental revenues, and other nonexchange transactions.

- 7 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

The Statement of Net Position presents the School District's assets, deferred outflows of resources, deferred inflows of resources and liabilities, with the difference reported as net position. Net position is reported in three categories as follows:
1. Net investment in capital assets consists of the School District's total investment in capital assets, net of accumulated depreciation, and reduced by outstanding debt obligations related to those capital assets. To the extent debt has been incurred but not yet expended for capital assets, such amounts are not included as a component of net investment in capital assets.
2. Restricted net position consists of resources for which the School District is legally or contractually obligated to spend in accordance with restrictions imposed by external third parties or imposed by law through constitutional provisions or enabling legislation.
3. Unrestricted net position consists of resources not meeting the definition of the two preceding categories. Unrestricted net position often has constraints on resources imposed by management which can be removed or modified.
The Statement of Activities presents a comparison between direct expenses and program revenues for each function of the School District's governmental activities.
Direct expenses are those that are specifically associated with a program or function and, therefore, are clearly identifiable to a particular function. Indirect expenses (expenses of the School District related to the administration and support of the School District's programs, such as office and maintenance personnel and accounting) are not allocated to programs.
Program revenues include (a) charges paid by the recipients of goods or services offered by the programs and (b) grants and contributions that are restricted to meeting the operational or capital requirements of a particular program. Revenues that are not classified as program revenues, including all taxes, are presented as general revenues.
Fund Financial Statements
The fund financial statements provide information about the School District's funds. Eliminations have been made to minimize the double counting of internal activities. The emphasis of fund financial statements is on major governmental funds, each displayed in a separate column.
The School District reports the following major governmental funds:
The general fund is the School District's primary operating fund. It accounts for and reports all financial resources not accounted for and reported in another fund.
The capital projects fund accounts for and reports financial resources including Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST) that are restricted, committed or assigned for capital outlay expenditures, including the acquisition or construction of capital facilities and other capital assets.
The debt service fund accounts for and reports financial resources that are restricted, committed, or assigned including taxes (sales) legally restricted for the payment of general long-term principal and interest.

- 8 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Basis of Accounting
The basis of accounting determines when transactions are reported on the financial statements. The government-wide financial statements are reported using the economic resources measurement focus and the accrual basis of accounting. Revenues are recorded when earned and expenses are recorded at the time liabilities are incurred, regardless of when the related cash flows take place. Nonexchange transactions, in which the School District gives (or receives) value without directly receiving (or giving) equal value in exchange, include property taxes, sales taxes, grants and donations. On an accrual basis, revenue from property taxes is recognized in the fiscal year for which the taxes are levied. Revenue from sales taxes is recognized in the fiscal year in which the underlying transaction (sale) takes place. Revenue from grants and donations is recognized in the fiscal year in which all eligibility requirements have been satisfied.
The School District uses funds to report on its financial position and the results of its operations. Fund accounting is designed to demonstrate legal compliance and to aid financial management by segregating transactions related to certain governmental functions or activities. A fund is a separate accounting entity with a self-balancing set of accounts.
Governmental funds are reported using the current financial resources measurement focus and the modified accrual basis of accounting. Under this method, revenues are recognized when measurable and available. The School District considers all tax revenues reported in the governmental funds to be available if they are collected within 60 days after year-end. The School District considers all intergovernmental revenues to be available if they are collected within 120 days after year-end. Property taxes, sales taxes and interest are considered to be susceptible to accrual. Expenditures are recorded when the related fund liability is incurred, except for principal and interest on general long-term debt, which are recognized as expenditures to the extent they have matured. Capital asset acquisitions are reported as expenditures in governmental funds. Proceeds of general long-term liabilities are reported as other financing sources.
The School District funds certain programs by a combination of specific cost-reimbursement grants, categorical grants, and general revenues. Thus, when program costs are incurred, there are both restricted and unrestricted resources available to finance the program. It is the School District's policy to first apply grant resources to such programs, followed by cost-reimbursement grants, then general revenues.
New Accounting Pronouncements
In fiscal year 2023, the School District adopted Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 96, Subscription-Based Information Technology Arrangements. This statement defines subscription-based information technology arrangements and provides uniform guidance for accounting and financial reporting for transactions that meet that definition. Under this statement, a government is required to recognize a subscription liability and an intangible right-to-use asset for contracts that meet the definition of a subscription-based information technology arrangement. The adoption of this statement did not have a material impact on the School District's financial statements.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, demand deposits, investments in the State of Georgia local government investment pool (Georgia Fund 1) and short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less from the date of acquisition in authorized financial institutions.
- 9 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) 45-8-14 authorizes the School District to deposit its funds in one or more solvent banks, insured Federal savings and loan associations or insured chartered building and loan associations.
Investments
The School District can invest its funds as permitted by O.C.G.A. 36-83-4. In selecting among options for investment or among institutional bids for deposits, the highest rate of return shall be the objective, given equivalent conditions of safety and liquidity.
Investments made by the School District in nonparticipating interest-earning contracts (such as certificates of deposit) and repurchase agreements are reported at cost. Participating interest-earning contracts and money market investments with a maturity at purchase of one year or less are reported at amortized cost. All other investments are reported at fair value.
For accounting purposes, certificates of deposit are classified as investments if they have an original maturity greater than three months when acquired.
Receivables
Receivables consist of amounts due from property and sales taxes, grant reimbursements due on Federal, State or other grants for expenditures made but not reimbursed and other receivables disclosed from information available. Receivables are recorded when either the asset or revenue recognition criteria has been met. Receivables recorded on the basic financial statements do not include any amounts which would necessitate the need for an allowance for uncollectible receivables.
Inventories
Food Inventories
On the basic financial statements, inventories of donated food commodities used in the preparation of meals are reported at their Federally assigned value and purchased foods inventories are reported at cost (calculated on the first-in, first-out basis). The School District uses the consumption method to account for inventories whereby donated food commodities are recorded as an asset and as revenue when received, and expenses/expenditures are recorded as the inventory items are used. Purchased foods are recorded as an asset when purchased and expenses/expenditures are recorded as the inventory items are used.
Restricted Assets
Certain resources set aside for repayment of debt are classified as restricted assets on the Statement of Net Position because their use is limited by applicable debt statutes, e.g. Series 2022 General Obligation (G.O.) Bond sinking funds.
Capital Assets
On the government-wide financial statements, capital assets are recorded at cost where historical records are available and at estimated historical cost based on appraisals or deflated current replacement cost where no historical records exist. Donated capital assets are recorded at the acquisition value on the date donated. The cost of normal maintenance and repairs that do not add to the value of assets or materially extend the useful lives of the assets is not capitalized. The School District does not capitalize book collections or works of art.

- 10 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Capital acquisition and construction are recorded as expenditures in the governmental fund financial statements at the time of purchase (including ancillary charges), and the related assets are reported as capital assets in the governmental activities column in the government-wide financial statements.

Depreciation is computed using the straight-line for all assets, except land, and is used to allocate the actual or estimated historical cost of capital assets over estimated useful lives.

Capitalization thresholds and estimated useful lives of capital assets reported in the government-wide statements are as follows:

Capitalization Policy

Estimated Useful Life

Land Land Improvements Buildings and Improvements Equipment Intangible Assets

Any Amount

$

100,000

$

100,000

$

10,000

$

500,000

N/A 15 Years
20 to 40 Years 5 to 10 Years
10 to 20 Years

Deferred Outflows/Inflows of Resources
In addition to assets, the statement of financial position will report a separate section for deferred outflows of resources. This separate financial statement element represents a consumption of resources that applies to a future period(s) and therefore will not be recognized as an outflow of resources (expense/expenditure) until then.
In addition to liabilities, the statement of financial position will report a separate section for deferred inflows of resources. This separate financial statement element represents an acquisition of resources that applies to a future period(s) and therefore will not be recognized as an inflow of resources (revenue) until that time.
Long-Term Liabilities and Bond Discounts/Premiums
In the School District's government-wide financial statements, outstanding debt is reported as liabilities. Bond premiums and discounts and the difference between the reacquisition price and the net carrying value of refunded debt are deferred and amortized over the life of the bonds using the straightline method. To conform to generally accepted accounting principles, bond premiums and discounts should be amortized using the effective interest method. The effect of this deviation is deemed to be immaterial to the fair presentation of the basic financial statements. Bond issuance costs are recognized as an outflow of resources in the fiscal year in which the bonds are issued.
In the governmental fund financial statements, the School District recognizes the proceeds of debt and premiums as other financing sources of the current period. Bond issuance costs are reported as debt service expenditures.
Pensions
For purposes of measuring the net pension liability, deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions, and pension expense, information about the pension plan's fiduciary net position and additions to/deductions from the plan's fiduciary net position have been determined

- 11 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

on the same basis as they are reported by the plan. For this purpose, benefit payments (including refunds of employee contributions) are recognized when due and payable in accordance with the benefit terms. Investments are reported at fair value.
Post-Employment Benefits Other Than Pensions (OPEB)
For purposes of measuring the net OPEB liability, deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to OPEB, and OPEB expense, information about the fiduciary net position of the Georgia School Employees Post-Employment Benefit Fund (School OPEB Fund) and additions to/deductions from School OPEB Fund fiduciary net position have been determined on the same basis as they are reported by School OPEB Fund. For this purpose, benefit payments are recognized when due and payable in accordance with the benefit terms. Investments are reported at fair value.
Fund Balances
Fund balance for governmental funds is reported in classifications that comprise a hierarchy based primarily on the extent to which the government is bound to honor constraints on the specific purposes for which amounts in those funds can be spent.
The School District's fund balances are classified as follows:
Nonspendable consists of resources that cannot be spent either because they are in a nonspendable form or because they are legally or contractually required to be maintained intact.
Restricted consists of resources that can be used only for specific purposes pursuant constraints either (1) externally imposed by creditors, grantors, contributors, or laws and regulations of other governments or (2) imposed by law through constitutional provisions or enabling legislation.
Committed consists of resources that can be used only for specific purposes pursuant to constraints imposed by formal action of the Board. The Board is the School District's highest level of decisionmaking authority, and the formal action that is required to be taken to establish, modify, or rescind a fund balance commitment is a resolution approved by the Board. Committed fund balance also should incorporate contractual obligations to the extent that existing resources in the fund have been specifically committed for use in satisfying those contractual requirements.
Assigned consists of resources constrained by the School District's intent to be used for specific purposes but are neither restricted nor committed. The intent should be expressed by (1) the Board or (2) the budget or finance committee, or the Superintendent, or designee, to assign amounts to be used for specific purposes.
Unassigned consists of resources within the general fund not meeting the definition of any aforementioned category. The general fund should be the only fund that reports a positive unassigned fund balance amount. In other governmental funds, it may be necessary to report a negative unassigned fund balance.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

- 12 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Property Taxes
The Effingham County Board of Commissioners adopted the property tax levy for the 2022 tax digest year (calendar year) on September 6, 2022 (levy date) based on property values as of January 1, 2022. Taxes were due on December 20, 2022 (lien date). Taxes collected within the current fiscal year or within 60 days after year-end on the 2022 tax digest are reported as revenue in the governmental funds for fiscal year 2023. The Effingham County Tax Commissioner bills and collects the property taxes for the School District, withholds 2.5% of taxes collected as a fee for tax collection and remits the balance of taxes collected to the School District. Property tax revenues, at the fund reporting level, during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023, for maintenance and operations amounted to $39,868,397.

The tax millage rate levied for the 2022 tax digest year (calendar year) for the School District was as follows (a mill equals $1 per thousand dollars of assessed value):

School Operations

15.810 mills

Additionally, Title Ad Valorem Tax revenues, at the fund reporting level, amounted to $5,384,891 during fiscal year ended June 30, 2023.
Sales Taxes
Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST), at the fund reporting level, during the year amounted to $17,537,523 and is to be used for capital outlay for educational purposes or debt service. This sales tax was authorized by local referendum and the sales tax must be re-authorized at least every five years.
NOTE 3: BUDGETARY DATA
The budget is a complete financial plan for the School District's fiscal year and is based upon careful estimates of expenditures together with probable funding sources. The budget is legally adopted each year for the general, debt service and capital projects funds. There is no statutory prohibition regarding over expenditure of the budget at any level. The budget for all governmental funds, except the various school activity (principal) accounts, is prepared and adopted by fund, function and object. The legal level of budgetary control was established by the Board at the aggregate function level. The budget for the general fund was prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The budgetary process begins with the School District's administration presenting an initial budget for the Board's review. The administration makes revisions as necessary based on the Board's guidelines, and a tentative budget is approved. After approval of this tentative budget by the Board, such budget is advertised at least once in a newspaper of general circulation in the locality, as well as the School District's website. At the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board after advertisement, the Board receives comments on the tentative budget, makes revisions as necessary and adopts a final budget. The approved budget is then submitted, in accordance with provisions of O.C.G.A. 20-2-167(c), to the Georgia Department of Education. The Board may increase or decrease the budget at any time during the year. All unexpended budget authority lapses at fiscal year-end.
See the General Fund Schedule of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balances Budget to Actual in the Supplementary Information Section for a detail of any over/under expenditures during the fiscal year under review.
- 13 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

NOTE 4: DEPOSITS, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS
Collateralization of Deposits
O.C.G.A. 45-8-12 provides that there shall not be on deposit at any time in any depository for a time longer than ten days a sum of money which has not been secured by surety bond, by guarantee of insurance, or by collateral. The aggregate of the face value of such surety bond and the market value of securities pledged shall be equal to not less than 110% of the public funds being secured after the deduction of the amount of deposit insurance. If a depository elects the pooled method (O.C.G.A. 45-8-13.1) the aggregate of the market value of the securities pledged to secure a pool of public funds shall be not less than 110% of the daily pool balance.
Acceptable security for deposits consists of any one of or any combination of the following:
(1) Surety bond signed by a surety company duly qualified and authorized to transact business within the State of Georgia,
(2) Insurance on accounts provided by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation,
(3) Bonds, bills, notes, certificates of indebtedness or other direct obligations of the United States or of the State of Georgia,
(4) Bonds, bills, notes, certificates of indebtedness or other obligations of the counties or municipalities of the State of Georgia,
(5) Bonds of any public authority created by the laws of the State of Georgia, providing that the statute that created the authority authorized the use of the bonds for this purpose,
(6) Industrial revenue bonds and bonds of development authorities created by the laws of the State of Georgia, and
(7) Bonds, bills, notes, certificates of indebtedness, or other obligations of a subsidiary corporation of the United States government, which are fully guaranteed by the United States government both as to principal and interest or debt obligations issued by or securities guaranteed by the Federal Land Bank, the Federal Home Loan Bank, the Federal Intermediate Credit Bank, the Central Bank for Cooperatives, the Farm Credit Banks, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Association, and the Federal National Mortgage Association.
Categorization of Deposits
Custodial credit risk is the risk that in the event of a bank failure, the School District's deposits may not be returned to it. The School District does not have a deposit policy for custodial credit risk. At June 30, 2023, the School District had deposits with a carrying amount of $61,315,675, and a bank balance of $62,084,023. The bank balances insured by Federal depository insurance were $500,000.
At June 30, 2023, $61,584,023 of the School District's bank balances were exposed to custodial credit risk. Of this balance, $19,851,471 was uninsured and collateralized with securities held by the pledging financial institution's trust department or agent but not in the School District's name. The remaining balance of $41,732,552 was in the State's Secure Deposit Program (SDP).
The School District participates in the State's Secure Deposit Program (SDP), a multi-bank pledging pool. The SDP requires participating banks that accept public deposits in Georgia to operate under the policy and procedures of the program. The Georgia Office of State Treasurer (OST) sets the collateral requirements and pledging level for each covered depository. There are four tiers of collateralization
- 14 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

levels specifying percentages of eligible securities to secure covered deposits: 25%, 50%, 75%, and 110%. The SDP also provides for collateral levels to be increased in the amount of up to 125% if economic or financial conditions warrants. The program lists the types of eligible criteria. The OST approves authorized custodians.
In accordance with the SDP, if a covered depository defaults, losses to public depositors are first satisfied with any applicable insurance, followed by demands of payment under any letters of credit or sale of the covered depository collateral. If necessary, any remaining losses are to be satisfied by assessments made against the other participating covered depositories. Therefore, for disclosure purposes, all deposits of the SDP are considered to be fully collateralized.
Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents balances to carrying value of deposits:

Statement of Net Position Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash held by trustee

$

68,705,873

3,075,444

Total cash and cash equivalents

71,781,317

Less: Cash on hand Investment pools reported as cash and cash equivalents
Georgia Fund 1

30 10,465,612

Total carrying value of deposits - June 30, 2023

$

61,315,675

Categorization of Cash Equivalents
The School District reported cash equivalents of $10,465,612 in Georgia Fund 1, a local government investment pool, which is included in the cash balances above. Georgia Fund 1 is not registered with the SEC as an investment company and does not operate in a manner consistent with the SEC's Rule 2a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940. The investment is valued at the pool's share price, $1.00 per share, which approximates fair value. The pool is an AAAf rated investment pool by Fitch. The weighted average maturity of Georgia Fund 1 may not exceed 60 days. The weighted average maturity for Georgia Fund 1 on June 30, 2023 was 28 days.
Georgia Fund 1, administered by the State of Georgia, Office of the State Treasurer, is not required to be categorized since the School District did not own any specific identifiable securities in the pool. The investment policy of the State of Georgia, Office of the State Treasurer for the Georgia Fund 1, does not provide for investment in derivatives or similar investments. Additional information on the Georgia Fund 1 is disclosed in the State of Georgia Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, which is publicly available at https://sao.georgia.gov/statewide-reporting/acfr.

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EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Categorization of Investments

At June 30, 2023, the School District had the following investments:

Investment Type

Fair Value

Investment Maturity

Less Than 1

1 - 5

Year

Years

Debt Securities Treasury Notes

$ 15,716,962 $

14,860,361 $

856,601

The weighted average maturity for the Fund was 8 days.

Fair Value of Investments
The School District measures and records its investments using fair value measurement guidelines established by generally accepted accounting principles. These guidelines recognize a three-tiered fair value hierarchy, as follows:
Level 1: Quoted prices for identical investments in active markets; Level 2: Observable inputs other than quoted market prices; and, Level 3: Unobservable inputs.

At June 30, 2023, the School District had the following investments by fair value level:
U.S. Treasuries of $15,716,962 are valued using a matrix pricing model. (Level 1 inputs)
Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that changes in interest rates of debt investment will adversely affect the fair value of an investment. The School District does not have a formal policy for managing interest rate risk.
Custodial Credit Risk
Custodial credit risk for investments is the risk that, in the event of the failure of the counterparty to a transaction, the School District will not be able to recover the value of the investment or collateral securities that are in the possession of an outside party. The School District does not have a formal policy for managing custodial credit risk.
At June 30, 2023, $15,716,962 of the School District's applicable investments were held by the investment's counterparty, not in the School District's name.
Credit Quality Risk
Credit quality risk is the risk that an issuer or other counterparty to an investment will not fulfill its obligations. State law limits investments to those prescribed O.C.G.A. 36-83-4. The School District does not have a formal policy that would further limit its investment choices or one that addresses credit risk.

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EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

The investments subject to credit quality risk are reflected below:

Rated Debt Investments

Fair Value

Quality Ratings AA+

Debt Securities Treasury Notes

$ 15,716,962 $

15,716,962

Concentration of Credit Risk

Concentration of credit risk is the risk of loss attributed to the magnitude of a government's investment in a single issuer. The School District does not have a formal policy for managing concentration of credit risk. All of the School District's investments are in U.S. Treasuries.

NOTE 5: RESTRICTED ASSETS
The restricted assets represent the cash balances totaling $3,075,444 for the 2022 GO Bond Sinking Fund.

NOTE 6: CAPITAL ASSETS
The following is a summary of changes in the capital assets for governmental activities during the fiscal year:

Governmental Activities Capital Assets,
Not Being Depreciated: Land Construction in Progress

Balances July 1, 2022

Increases

Decreases

Transfers

Balances June 30, 2023

$

7,155,569 $

1,972,689 $

8,746,623

20,221,130

- $ -

- $ (15,014,865)

9,128,258 13,952,888

Total Capital Assets Not Being Depreciated

15,902,192

22,193,819

-

(15,014,865)

23,081,146

Capital Assets, Being Depreciated Buildings and Improvements Equipment Land Improvements
Less Accumulated Depreciation: Buildings and Improvements Equipment Land Improvements

190,021,827 21,263,302 14,054,048

404,100 2,040,349
226,881

1,529,912 50,433 -

11,356,777 -
3,658,088

200,252,792 23,253,218 17,939,017

75,718,781 15,628,352 12,156,882

5,393,833 1,117,679
367,676

476,218 38,921 -

-

80,636,396

-

16,707,110

-

12,524,558

Total Capital Assets, Being Depreciated, Net
Governmental Activities Capital Assets - Net

121,835,162

(4,207,858)

1,065,206

15,014,865

131,576,963

$ 137,737,354 $ 17,985,961 $ 1,065,206 $

- $ 154,658,109

- 17 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Current year depreciation expense by function is as follows:

Instruction Support Services
Educational Media Services School Administration Business Administration Maintenance and Operation of Plant Student Transportation Services Food Services

$
$ 225,660 173,851 183,965 96,647 843,447

4,830,273
1,523,570 525,345

$ 6,879,188

NOTE 7: INTERFUND TRANSFERS

Interfund transfers for the year ended June 30, 2023, consisted of the following:

Transfers to

Transfers From Capital Projects Fund

General Fund

$

195

Debt Service Fund

3,962,906

Total

$

3,963,101

Transfers are used to move ESPLOST revenues from the Capital Projects Fund to the Debt Service Fund to fund debt service payments. The transfer from the Capital Projects Fund to the General Fund was made to clear out the remaining amounts in the 2017 Bond Debt Service Fund.

NOTE 8: LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

The changes in long-term liabilities during the fiscal year for governmental activities were as follows:

Balance July 1, 2022

Governmental Activities

Balance

Additions

Deductions June 30, 2023

Due Within One Year

General Obligation (G.O.) Bonds Unamortized Bond Premium Net Pension Liability Net OPEB Liability

$ 47,800,000 $

- $ 3,175,000 $ 44,625,000 $ 2,155,000

6,912,920

-

576,376

6,336,544

538,270

52,919,693

165,181,233

22,674,468

195,426,458

-

69,969,419

10,242,357 15,033,588

65,178,188

-

$ 177,602,032 $ 175,423,590 $ 41,459,432 $ 311,566,190 $ 2,693,270

The School District had no unused line of credit or outstanding notes from direct borrowings and direct placements related to governmental activities as of June 30, 2023. In the event the entity is unable to make the principal and interest payments, for the general obligation bonds, using proceeds from the ESPLOST, the debt will be satisfied from the general fund or from a direct annual ad valorem tax levied

- 18 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

upon all taxable property within the School District. Additional security is provided by the State of Georgia Intercept Program which allows for state appropriations entitled to the School District to be transferred to the Debt Service Account Custodian for the payment of debt.

General Obligation Bonds
The School District's bonded debt consists of general obligation bonds that are generally noncallable with interest payable semiannually. Bond proceeds primarily pay for acquiring or constructing capital facilities. The School District repays general obligation bonds from voter-approved property and sales taxes. General obligation bonds are direct obligations and pledge the full faith and credit of the School District.

Voters have authorized $55,375,000 in general obligation debt, which was not issued as of June 30, 2023. General obligation bonds currently outstanding are as follows:

Description

Interest Rates Issue Date Maturity Date Amount Issued

Amount Outstanding

General Government - Series 2022 3.00% - 5.00% 2/17/2022

9/1/2047 $ 44,625,000 $ 44,625,000

The following schedule details debt service requirements to maturity for the School District's total general obligation bonds payable:

Fiscal Year Ended June 30:

General Obligation Debt

Principal

Interest

Unamortized Bond Premium

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 - 2033 2034 - 2038 2039 - 2043 2044 - 2048

$

2,155,000 $

2,240,000

2,330,000

2,420,000

2,545,000

6,115,000

7,595,000

8,845,000

10,380,000

1,754,225 $ 1,644,350 1,530,100 1,411,350 1,287,225 5,384,625 3,920,800 2,658,625 1,059,550

538,270 504,555 469,499 433,061 394,974 1,652,228 1,203,065 815,777 325,115

Total Principal and Interest $

44,625,000 $

20,650,850 $

6,336,544

NOTE 9: RISK MANAGEMENT
Commercial Insurance
The School District is exposed to various risks of loss related to torts; theft of, damage to and destruction of assets; errors or omissions; job related illness or injuries to employees; and natural disasters. Except as described below, the School District carries commercial insurance for these risks. Settled claims resulting from these insured risks have not exceeded commercial insurance coverage in any of the past three fiscal years.

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EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Unemployment Compensation

The School District is self-insured with regard to unemployment compensation claims. The School District accounts for claims within the general fund with expenses/expenditures and liability being reported when it is probable that a loss has occurred, and the amount of that loss can be reasonably estimated.

Changes in the unemployment compensation claims liability during the last two fiscal years are as follows:

Beginning of Year Liability

Claims and Changes in
Estimates

Claims Paid

End of Year Liability

2022 $

- $

9,403 $

9,403 $

-

2023 $

- $

6,889 $

6,889 $

-

Surety Bond

The School District purchased a surety bond to provide additional insurance coverage as follows:

Position Covered

Amount

Superintendent

$

100,000

NOTE 10: FUND BALANCE CLASSIFICATION DETAILS

The School District's financial statements include the following amounts presented in the aggregate at June 30, 2023:

Nonspendable

$

Inventories

Restricted

Continuation of Federal Programs $ 7,140,827

Capital Projects

32,143,057

Debt Service

3,077,690

Assigned

School Activity Accounts

2,286,253

Subsequent Year's Budget

1,555,729

Unassigned

105,901
42,361,574 3,841,982
27,082,171

Fund Balance, June 30, 2023

$ 73,391,628

When multiple categories of fund balance are available for an expenditure, the School District will start with the most restricted category and spend those funds first before moving down to the next category with available funds.

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EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

NOTE 11: SIGNIFICANT COMMITMENTS

Commitments under Construction Contracts

The following is an analysis of significant outstanding construction or renovation contracts executed by the School District as of June 30, 2023, together with funding available:

Project

Unearned Executed Contracts (1)

Payments Through June 30, 2023 (2)

Funding Available From
State (1)

EMS HVAC/Roof Replacement

$ 3,201,249 $

HR Arena

5,374,198

ECHS Wing Addition/Tennis Courts

7,112,694

SEMS Wing Addition

2,488,745

SEHS Wing Addition

2,016,689

1,918,500 $ 268,780
1,568,921 5,426,157 3,177,377

1,411,842 -
2,732,794 -

$ 20,193,575 $

12,359,735 $

4,144,636

(1) The amounts described are not reflected in the basic financial statements. (2) Payments include contracts and retainages payables at year-end.
NOTE 12: SIGNIFICANT CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
Federal Grants
Amounts received or receivable principally from the Federal government are subject to audit and review by grantor agencies. This could result in requests for reimbursement to the grantor agency for any costs which are disallowed under grant terms. Any disallowances resulting from the grantor audit may become a liability of the School District. However, the School District believes that such disallowances, if any, will be immaterial to its overall financial position.
Litigation
The School District is a defendant in various legal proceedings pertaining to matters incidental to the performance of routine School District operations. The ultimate disposition of these proceedings is not presently determinable but is not believed to have a material adverse effect on the financial condition of the School District.
NOTE 13: OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS (OPEB)
Georgia School Personnel Post-Employment Health Benefit Fund
Plan Description: Certified teachers and non-certified public school employees of the School District as defined in 20-2-875 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) are provided OPEB through the School OPEB Fund - a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit post-employment healthcare plan, reported as an employee trust fund and administered by a Board of Community Health (Board). Title 20 of the O.C.G.A. assigns the authority to establish and amend the benefit terms of the group health plan to the Board.

- 21 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Benefits Provided: The School OPEB Fund provides healthcare benefits for retirees and their dependents due under the group health plan for public school teachers, including librarians, other certified employees of public schools, regional educational service agencies and non-certified public school employees. Retiree medical eligibility is attained when an employee retires and is immediately eligible to draw a retirement annuity from Employees' Retirement System (ERS), Georgia Judicial Retirement System (JRS), Legislative Retirement System (LRS), Teachers Retirement System (TRS) or Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS). If elected, dependent coverage starts on the same day as retiree coverage. Medicare-eligible retirees are offered Standard and Premium Medicare Advantage plan options. Non-Medicare eligible retiree plan options include Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA), Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP). The School OPEB Fund also pays for administrative expenses of the fund. By law, no other use of the assets of the School OPEB Fund is permitted.
Contributions: As established by the Board, the School OPEB Fund is substantially funded on a payas-you-go basis; that is, annual cost of providing benefits will be financed in the same year as claims occur. Contributions to the School OPEB Fund from the School District were $2,575,800 for the year ended June 30, 2023. Active employees are not required to contribute to the School OPEB Fund.
OPEB Liabilities, OPEB Expense, and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to OPEB
At June 30, 2023, the School District reported a liability of $65,178,188 for its proportionate share of the net OPEB liability. The net OPEB liability was measured as of June 30, 2022. The total OPEB liability used to calculate the net OPEB liability was based on an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2021. An expected total OPEB liability as of June 30, 2022 was determined using standard roll-forward techniques. The School District's proportion of the net OPEB liability was actuarially determined based on employer contributions during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022. At June 30, 2022, the School District's proportion was 0.658154%, which was an increase of 0.012133% from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2021.

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EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

For the year ended June 30, 2023, the School District recognized OPEB expense of ($2,295,239). At June 30, 2023, the School District reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to OPEB from the following sources:

OPEB Deferred Outflows of Resources

Deferred Inflows of Resources

Differences between expected and actual

experience

$

2,601,626 $

25,617,002

Changes of assumptions

9,926,771

13,182,379

Net difference between projected and actual

earnings on OPEB plan investments

397,569

-

Changes in proportion and differences between School District contributions and proportionate share of contributions

3,603,006

75,703

School District contributions subsequent to

the measurement date

2,575,800

-

Total

$

19,104,772 $

38,875,084

School District contributions subsequent to the measurement date are reported as deferred outflows of resources and will be recognized as a reduction of the net OPEB liability in the year ended June 30, 2024. Other amounts reported as deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to OPEB will be recognized in OPEB expense as follows:

Year Ended June 30:

OPEB

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 Thereafter

$

(6,410,057)

$

(4,855,194)

$

(3,589,231)

$

(4,904,677)

$

(2,354,126)

$

(232,827)

- 23 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Actuarial Assumptions: The total OPEB liability as of June 30, 2022 was determined by an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2021 using the following actuarial assumptions and other inputs, applied to all periods included in the measurement and rolled forward to the measurement date of June 30, 2022:

OPEB:

Inflation

2.50%

Salary increases

3.00% 8.75%, including inflation

Long-term expected rate of return
Healthcare cost trend rate

7.00%, compounded annually, net of investment expense, and including inflation

Pre-Medicare Eligible

6.50%

Medicare Eligible

5.00%

Ultimate trend rate

Pre-Medicare Eligible

4.50%

Medicare Eligible

4.50%

Year of Ultimate trend rate

Pre-Medicare Eligible

2029

Medicare Eligible

2023

The Plan currently uses mortality tables that vary by age, gender, and health status (i.e. disabled or not disabled) as follows:

For TRS members: Post-retirement mortality rates for service retirements and beneficiaries were based on the Pub-2010 Teachers Headcount Weighted Below Median Healthy Retiree mortality table (ages set forward one year and adjusted 106%) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. The rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate. Post-retirement mortality rates for disability retirements were based on the Pub-2010 Teachers Mortality Table for Disabled Retirees (ages set forward one year and adjusted 106%) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. The rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate. The Pub-2010 Teachers Headcount Weighted Below Median Employee mortality table with ages set forward one year and adjusted 106% was used for death prior to retirement. Future improvement in mortality rates was assumed using the MP-2019 projection scale generationally. These rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate.
For PSERS members: Pre-retirement mortality rates were based on the Pub-2010 General Employee Mortality Table, with no adjustment, with the MP-2019 Projections scale applied generationally. Post-retirement mortality rates for service retirements were based on the Pub-2010 General Healthy Annuitant Mortality Table (ages set forward one year and adjusted 101% for males and 103% for females) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. Postretirement mortality rates for disability retirements were based on the Pub-2010 General Disabled Mortality Table (ages set back three years for males and adjusted 103% for males - 24 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

and 106% for females) with the MP-2019 Projections scale applied generationally. Postretirement mortality rates for beneficiaries were based on the Pub-2010 General Contingent Survivor Mortality Table (ages set forward two years and adjust 104% for males and 99% for females) with the MP-2019 Project scale applied generationally.

The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2021 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the pension systems, which covered the five-year period ending June 30, 2018, with the exception of the assumed annual rate of inflation which was changed from 2.75% to 2.50%, effective with the June 30, 2018 valuation.

The remaining actuarial assumptions (e.g., initial per capita costs, health care cost trends, rate of plan participation, rates of plan election, etc.) used in the June 30, 2021 valuation were based on a review of recent plan experience done concurrently with the June 30, 2021 valuation.

Projection of benefits for financial reporting purposes are based on the substantive plan (the plan as understood by the employer and plan members) and include the types of benefits provided at the time of each valuation and the historical pattern of sharing of benefit costs between the employer and plan members to that point. The actuarial methods and assumptions used include techniques that are designed to reduce the effects of short-term volatility in actuarial accrued liabilities and the actuarial value of assets, consistent with the long-term perspective of the calculation.

The long-term expected rate of return on OPEB plan investments was determined using a log-normal distribution analysis in which best-estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return (expected nominal returns, net of investment expense and the assumed rate of inflation) are developed for each major asset class. These ranges are combined to produce the long-term expected rate of return by weighting the expected future real rates of return by the target asset allocation percentage and by adding expected inflation. The target allocation and best estimates of arithmetic real rates of return for each major asset class are summarized in the following table:

Asset Class

Target Allocation

Long-Term Expected Real Rate of Return*

Fixed income Equities
Total

30.00% 70.00%
100.00%

2.00% 9.40%

* Net of inflation
Discount Rate: In order to measure the total OPEB liability for the School OPEB Fund, a single equivalent interest rate of 3.57% was used as the discount rate, as compared with last year's rate of 2.20%. The plan's fiduciary net position was projected to not be able to make all future benefit payments of current plan members. Therefore, the municipal bond rate as used for the long-term rate of return was applied to all periods of projected benefit payments to determine total OPEB liability. This is comprised mainly of the yield or index rate for 20-year tax-exempt general obligation bonds with an average rating of AA or higher (3.54% per the Municipal Bond Index Rate). The projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that contributions from members and from the employers will be made at the current level as averaged over the last five years, adjusted for annual projected changes in headcount. Projected future benefit payments for all current plan members were projected through 2128.

- 25 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Sensitivity of the School District's Proportionate Share of the Net OPEB liability to Changes in the Discount Rate: The following presents the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB liability calculated using the discount rate of 3.57%, as well as what the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB liability would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is 1-percentage-point lower (2.57%) or 1-percentage-point higher (4.57%) than the current discount rate:

1% Decrease (2.57%)

Current Discount Rate (3.57%)

1% Increase (4.57%)

School District's proportionate share

of the Net OPEB liability

$

73,724,357 $

65,178,188 $

57,934,934

Sensitivity of the School District's Proportionate Share of the Net OPEB liability to Changes in the Healthcare Cost Trend Rates: The following presents the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB liability, as well as what the School District's proportionate share of the net OPEB liability would be if it were calculated using healthcare cost trend rates that are 1percentage-point lower or 1-percentage-point higher than the current healthcare cost trend rates:

1% Decrease

Current Healthcare Cost Trend Rate

1% Increase

School District's proportionate share

of the Net OPEB liability

$

56,158,800 $

65,178,188 $

76,262,977

OPEB Plan Fiduciary Net Position: Detailed information about the OPEB plan's fiduciary net position is available in the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, which is publicly available at https://sao.georgia.gov/statewide-reporting/acfr.

NOTE 14: RETIREMENT PLANS
The School District participates in various retirement plans administered by the State of Georgia, as further explained below.

Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS)

Plan Description: All teachers of the School District as defined in O.C.G.A. 47-3-60 and certain other support personnel as defined by O.C.G.A. 47-3-63 are provided a pension through the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia (TRS). TRS, a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan, is administered by the TRS Board of Trustees (TRS Board). Title 47 of the O.C.G.A. assigns the authority to establish and amend the benefit provisions to the State Legislature. The Teachers Retirement System of Georgia issues a publicly available separate financial report that can be obtained at www.trsga.com/publications.

Benefits Provided: TRS provides service retirement, disability retirement, and death benefits. Normal retirement benefits are determined as 2% of the average of the employee's two highest paid consecutive years of service, multiplied by the number of years of creditable service up to 40 years. An employee is eligible for normal service retirement after 30 years of creditable service, regardless of age, or after 10 years of service and attainment of age 60. Ten years of service is required for disability and death benefits eligibility. Disability benefits are based on the employee's creditable service and

- 26 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

compensation up to the time of disability. Death benefits equal the amount that would be payable to the employee's beneficiary had the employee retired on the date of death. Death benefits are based on the employee's creditable service and compensation up to the date of death.
Contributions: Per Title 47 of the O.C.G.A., contribution requirements of active employees and participating employers, as actuarially determined, are established and may be amended by the TRS Board. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. 47-3-63, the employer contributions for certain full-time public school support personnel are funded on behalf of the employer by the State of Georgia. Contributions are expected to finance the costs of benefits earned by employees during the year, with an additional amount to finance any unfunded accrued liability. Employees were required to contribute 6.00% of their annual pay during fiscal year 2023. The School District's contractually required contribution rate for the year ended June 30, 2023 was 19.98% of annual School District payroll, of which 19.96% of payroll was required from the School District and 0.02% of payroll was required from the State. For the current fiscal year, employer contributions to the pension plan were $17,687,169 and $44,048 from the School District and the State, respectively.
Employees' Retirement System
Plan Description: The Employees' Retirement System of Georgia (ERS) is a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan established by the Georgia General Assembly during the 1949 Legislative Session for the purpose of providing retirement allowances for employees of the State of Georgia and its political subdivisions. ERS is directed by a Board of Trustees. Title 47 of the O.C.G.A. assigns the authority to establish and amend the benefit provisions to the State Legislature. ERS issues a publicly available financial report that can be obtained at www.ers.ga.gov/financials.
Benefits Provided: The ERS Plan supports three benefit tiers: Old Plan, New Plan, and Georgia State Employees' Pension and Savings Plan (GSEPS). Employees under the old plan started membership prior to July 1, 1982 and are subject to plan provisions in effect prior to July 1, 1982. Members hired on or after July 1, 1982 but prior to January 1, 2009 are new plan members subject to modified plan provisions. Effective January 1, 2009, new state employees and rehired state employees who did not retain membership rights under the Old or New Plans are members of GSEPS. ERS members hired prior to January 1, 2009 also have the option to irrevocably change their membership to GSEPS.
Under the old plan, the new plan, and GSEPS, a member may retire and receive normal retirement benefits after completion of 10 years of creditable service and attainment of age 60 or 30 years of creditable service regardless of age. Additionally, there are some provisions allowing for early retirement after 25 years of creditable service for members under age 60.
Retirement benefits paid to members are based upon the monthly average of the member's highest 24 consecutive calendar months, multiplied by the number of years of creditable service, multiplied by the applicable benefit factor. Annually, postretirement cost-of-living adjustments may also be made to members' benefits, provided the members were hired prior to July 1, 2009. The normal retirement pension is payable monthly for life; however, options are available for distribution of the member's monthly pension, at reduced rates, to a designated beneficiary upon the member's death. Death and disability benefits are also available through ERS.
Contributions: Member contributions under the old plan are 4.00% of annual compensation, up to $4,200, plus 6.00% of annual compensation in excess of $4,200. Under the old plan, the state pays member contributions in excess of 1.25% of annual compensation. Under the old plan, these state contributions are included in the members' accounts for refund purposes and are used in the
- 27 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

computation of the members' earnable compensation for the purpose of computing retirement benefits. Member contributions under the new plan and GSEPS are 1.25% of annual compensation. The School District's total required contribution rate for the year ended June 30, 2023 was 31.01% of annual covered payroll for old and new plan members and 27.47% for GSEPS members. The rates include the annual actuarially determined employer contribution rate of 24.67% of annual covered payroll for old and new plan members and 21.59% for GSEPS members, plus 6.34% adjustment to the old and new plan and a 5.88% adjustment to the GSEPS plan for the commencement of cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) prefunding for certain retired ERS members. Contributions are expected to finance the costs of benefits earned by employees during the year, with an additional amount to finance any unfunded accrued liability. Employer contributions to the pension plan were $52,440 for the current fiscal year.
Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS)
Plan Description: PSERS is a cost-sharing multiple-employer defined benefit pension plan established by the Georgia General Assembly in 1969 for the purpose of providing retirement allowances for public school employees who are not eligible for membership in the Teachers Retirement System of Georgia. The ERS Board of Trustees, plus two additional trustees, administers PSERS. Title 47 of the O.C.G.A. assigns the authority to establish and amend the benefit provisions to the State Legislature. PSERS issues a publicly available financial report that can be obtained at www.ers.ga.gov/financials.
Benefits Provided: A member may retire and elect to receive normal monthly retirement benefits after completion of ten years of creditable service and attainment of age 65. A member may choose to receive reduced benefits after age 60 and upon completion of ten years of service.
Upon retirement, the member will receive a monthly benefit of $15.75, multiplied by the number of years of creditable service. Death and disability benefits are also available through PSERS. Additionally, PSERS may make periodic cost-of-living adjustments to the monthly benefits. Upon termination of employment, member contributions with accumulated interest are refundable upon request by the member. However, if an otherwise vested member terminates and withdraws his/her member contribution, the member forfeits all rights to retirement benefits.
Contributions: The general assembly makes an annual appropriation to cover the employer contribution to PSERS on behalf of local school employees (bus drivers, cafeteria workers, and maintenance staff). The annual employer contribution required by statute is actuarially determined and paid directly to PSERS by the State Treasurer in accordance with O.C.G.A. 47-4-29(a) and 60(b). Contributions are expected to finance the costs of benefits earned by employees during the year, with an additional amount to finance any unfunded accrued liability.
Individuals who became members prior to July 1, 2012 contribute $4 per month for nine months each fiscal year. Individuals who became members on or after July 1, 2012 contribute $10 per month for nine months each fiscal year. The State of Georgia, although not the employer of PSERS members, is required by statute to make employer contributions actuarially determined and approved and certified by the PSERS Board of Trustees. The current fiscal year contribution was $217,633.
Pension Liabilities, Pension Expense, and Deferred Outflows of Resources and Deferred Inflows of Resources Related to Pensions
At June 30, 2023, the School District reported a liability of $195,426,458 for its proportionate share of the net pension liability for TRS ($194,996,231) and ERS ($430,227).

- 28 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

The TRS net pension liability reflected a reduction for support provided to the School District by the State of Georgia for certain public school support personnel. The amount recognized by the School District as its proportionate share of the net pension liability, the related State of Georgia support, and the total portion of the net pension liability that was associated with the School District were as follows:

School District's proportionate share of the net pension liability

$

194,996,231

State of Georgia's proportionate share of the net pension liability associated with the School District

531,241

Total

$

195,527,472

The net pension liability for TRS and ERS was measured as of June 30, 2022. The total pension liability used to calculate the net pension liability was based on an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2021. An expected total pension liability as of June 30, 2022 was determined using standard roll-forward techniques. The School District's proportion of the net pension liability was based on contributions to TRS and ERS during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022.
At June 30, 2022, the School District's TRS proportion was 0.600507%, which was an increase of 0.003836% from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2021. At June 30, 2022, the School District's ERS proportion was 0.006442%, which was an increase of 0.000109% from its proportion measured as of June 30, 2021.
At June 30, 2023, the School District did not have a PSERS liability for a proportionate share of the net pension liability because of a Special Funding Situation with the State of Georgia, which is responsible for the net pension liability of the plan. The amount of the State's proportionate share of the net pension liability associated with the School District is $1,648,208.
The PSERS net pension liability was measured as of June 30, 2022. The total pension liability used to calculate the net pension liability was based on an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2021. An expected total pension liability as of June 30, 2022 was determined using standard roll-forward techniques. The State's proportion of the net pension liability associated with the School District was based on actuarially determined contributions paid by the State during the fiscal year ended June 30, 2022.
For the year ended June 30, 2023, the School District recognized pension expense of $30,214,837 for TRS, $111,156 for ERS and $414,194 for PSERS and revenue of $5,972 for TRS and $414,194 for PSERS. The revenue is support provided by the State of Georgia. For TRS the State of Georgia support is provided only for certain support personnel.

- 29 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

At June 30, 2023, the School District reported deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions from the following sources:

TRS Deferred Outflows of Resources

Deferred Inflows of Resources

ERS Deferred Outflows of Resources

Deferred Inflows of Resources

Differences between expected and actual

experience

$ 8,094,342 $ 1,015,001 $

924 $

3,902

Changes of assumptions

29,353,154

-

76,477

-

Net difference between projected and actual

earnings on pension plan investments

38,311,212

-

49,988

-

Changes in proportion and differences

between School District contributions and

proportionate share of contributions

2,626,561

-

5,066

-

School District contributions subsequent to

the measurement date

17,687,169

-

52,440

-

Total

$ 96,072,438 $ 1,015,001 $

184,895 $

3,902

The School District contributions subsequent to the measurement date for TRS and ERS are reported as deferred outflows of resources and will be recognized as a reduction of the net pension liability in the year ended June 30, 2024. Other amounts reported as deferred outflows of resources and deferred inflows of resources related to pensions will be recognized in pension expense as follows:

Year Ended June 30:

TRS

ERS

2024 2025 2026 2027

$

21,471,290 $

$

16,219,281 $

$

11,687,780 $

$

27,991,917 $

69,839 19,024
1,246 38,444

- 30 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Actuarial Assumptions: The total pension liability as of June 30, 2022 was determined by an actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2021, using the following actuarial assumptions, applied to all periods included in the measurement:

Teachers Retirement System:

Inflation

2.50%

Salary increases

3.00% 8.75%, average, including inflation

Investment rate of return

6.90%, net of pension plan investment expense, including inflation

Post-retirement benefit increases

1.50% semi-annually

Post-retirement mortality rates for service retirements and beneficiaries were based on the Pub-2010 Teachers Headcount Weighted Below Median Healthy Retiree mortality table (ages set forward one year and adjusted 106%) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. The rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate. Post-retirement mortality rates for disability retirements were based on the Pub-2010 Teachers Mortality Table for Disabled Retirees (ages set forward one year and adjusted 106%) with the MP-2019 Projection scale applied generationally. The rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate. The Pub-2010 Teachers Headcount Weighted Below Median Employee mortality table with ages set forward one year and adjusted 106% as used for death prior to retirement. Future improvement in mortality rates was assumed using the MP-2019 projection scale generationally. These rates of improvement were reduced by 20% for all years prior to the ultimate rate.

The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2021 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period July 1, 2013 June 30, 2018, with the exception of the investment rate of return and payroll growth assumption.

Employees' Retirement System:

Inflation

2.50%

Salary increases Investment rate of return

3.00% 6.75%, including inflation
7.00%, net of pension plan investment expense, including inflation

- 31 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Mortality rates are as follows:
The Pub-2010 General Employee Table, with no adjustments, projected generationally with the MP-2019 scale is used for both males and females while in active service.
The Pub-2010 Family of Tables projected generationally with the MP-2019 Scale and with further adjustments are used for post-retirement mortality assumptions as follows:

Participant Type Membership Table

Set Forward (+)/ Setback (-) Adjustment to Rates

Service Retirees General Healthy Annuitant Male: +1; Female: +1

Male: 105%; Female: 108%

Disability Retirees General Disabled

Male: -3; Female: 0

Male: 103%; Female: 106%

Beneficiaries

General Contingent Survivors

Male: +2; Female: +2

Male: 106%; Female: 105%

The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2021 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period July 1, 2014 June 30, 2019.

Public School Employees Retirement System:

Inflation

2.50%

Salary increases Investment rate of return
Post-retirement benefit increases

N/A
7.00%, net of pension plan investment expense, including inflation 1.50% semi-annually

Mortality rates are as follows:
The Pub-2010 General Employee Table, with no adjustments, projected generationally with the MP-2019 scale is used for both males and females while in active service.
The Pub-2010 Family of Tables projected generationally with the MP-2019 Scale and with further adjustments are used for post-retirement mortality assumptions as follows:

Participant Type

Membership Table

Set Forward (+)/ Setback (-) Adjustment to Rates

Service Retirees

General Healthy Below- Male: +2; Female: +2 Median Annuitant

Male: 101%; Female: 103%

Disability Retirees

General Disabled

Male: -3; Female: 0

Male: 103%; Female: 106%

Beneficiaries

General Below-Median Contingent Survivors

Male: +2; Female: +2

Male: 104%; Female: 99%

The actuarial assumptions used in the June 30, 2021 valuation were based on the results of an actuarial experience study for the period July 1, 2014 June 30, 2019.

- 32 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

The long-term expected rate of return on TRS, ERS and PSERS pension plan investments was determined using a log-normal distribution analysis in which best-estimate ranges of expected future real rates of return (expected returns, net of pension plan investment expense and inflation) are developed for each major asset class. These ranges are combined to produce the long-term expected rate of return by weighting the expected future real rates of return by the target asset allocation percentage and by adding expected inflation. The target allocation and estimates of arithmetic real rates of return for each major asset class are summarized in the following table:

Asset Class
Fixed income Domestic large stocks Domestic small stocks International developed market stocks International emerging market stocks Alternative

TRS/ERS/PSERS Target
Allocation
30.00% 46.30%
1.20% 12.30%
5.20% 5.00%

Long-Term Expected Real Rate of Return*
0.20% 9.40% 13.40% 9.40% 11.40% 10.50%

Total

100.00%

* Rates shown are net of inflation
Discount Rate: The discount rate used to measure the total TRS pension liability was 6.90%. The discount rate used to measure the total ERS and PSERS pension liability was 7.00%. The projection of cash flows used to determine the discount rate assumed that plan member contributions will be made at the current contribution rate and that employer and nonemployer contributions will be made at rates equal to the difference between actuarially determined contribution rates and the member rate. Based on those assumptions, the TRS, ERS and PSERS pension plans' fiduciary net position were projected to be available to make all projected future benefit payments of current plan members. Therefore, the long-term expected rate of return on pension plan investments was applied to all periods of projected benefit payments to determine the total pension liability.

- 33 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Sensitivity of the School District's Proportionate Share of the Net Pension Liability to Changes in the Discount Rate: The following presents the School District's proportionate share of the net pension liability calculated using the discount rate of 6.90% and 7.00%, as well as what the School District's proportionate share of the net pension liability would be if it were calculated using a discount rate that is 1-percentage-point lower (5.90% and 6.00%) or 1-percentage-point higher (7.90% and 8.00%) than the current rate:

Teachers Retirement System:

1% Decrease (5.90%)

Current Discount Rate (6.90%)

1% Increase (7.90%)

School District's proportionate share of

the net pension liability

$

294,184,734 $

194,996,231 $

113,995,697

Employees' Retirement System:
School District's proportionate share of the net pension liability

1% Decrease (6.00%)

Current Discount Rate (7.00%)

$

572,711 $

430,227 $

1% Increase (8.00%)
310,408

Pension Plan Fiduciary Net Position: Detailed information about the pension plan's fiduciary net position is available in the separately issued TRS, ERS and PSERS financial report which is publicly available at www.trsga.com/publications and http://www.ers.ga.gov/financials.

Defined Contribution Plan
In March 1999, the School District began an employer paid 403(b) annuity plan for the group of employees covered under the Public School Employees Retirement System ("PSERS"). Recognizing that PSERS was a limited defined contribution and defined benefit plan which did not provide for an adequate retirement for this group of employees, it was the Board's decision to supplement the retirement to this group.
The School District selected VALIC as the provider of this plan. For each employee covered under PSERS, employer matching contributions shall be made by the Board at a rate equal to 50% of the elective deferrals of each eligible employee. An employee's elective deferrals in excess of 6% of compensation shall not be considered for purposes of the employer matching contribution. The employer has the discretion to vary the rate of employer matching contributions from plan year to plan year.
The employee becomes vested in the plan with five years of experience. Employees who had already achieved five years of experience at the time the plan was implemented were vested upon enrollment.
Funds accumulated in the employer paid accounts are only available to the employee upon termination of employment and five years of service to the School District. If an employee terminates employment prior to achieving five years of service, funds paid on behalf of the non-vested employee are credited back to the School District.

- 34 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
JUNE 30, 2023

EXHIBIT "G"

Employer contributions for the current fiscal year and the preceding two fiscal years are as follows:

Fiscal Year

Percentage Contributed

Required Contribution

2023 2022 2021

Various

$

Various

$

Various

$

42,697 40,879 42,852

NOTE 15: TAX ABATEMENTS
The Industrial Development Authority of Effingham County enters into property tax abatement agreements with local businesses for the purpose of attracting or retaining businesses within their jurisdictions. The abatements may be granted to any business located within or promising to relocate to Effingham County.
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023, Effingham County abated property taxes due to the School District that were levied on September 6, 2022 and due on December 20, 2022 totaling $5,627,497.
Included in that $5,627,497 abated, the following are tax abatement agreement amounts with individual companies that each exceeded 10% of the total amount abated:
Property tax abatements were granted to Georgia Pacific totaling $1,558,211. Property tax abatements were granted to Georgia Power totaling $1,658,423. Property tax abatements were granted to Shaw Industries totaling $706,904. Property tax abatements were granted to Branigar totaling $913,422.
NOTE 16: SPECIAL ITEM
During fiscal year 2023, the School District sold a building with a total original value of $1,529,911 and a net book value of $1,053,693. The building was sold for $3,371,229. The difference between the net carrying value of the capital asset and the proceeds from the sale resulted in a net gain on the disposal of the asset of $2,317,536, which is reported as a special item on Exhibit B of this report.

- 35 -

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EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION SCHEDULE OF PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE NET PENSION LIABILITY TEACHERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "1"

For the Year Ended
June 30

School District's proportion
of the Net Pension Liability (NPL)

School District's proportionate share of the NPL

State of Georgia's proportionate share
of the NPL associated with the
School District

Total

School District's covered payroll

School District's proportionate share of the NPL as a percentage of its covered payroll

Plan fiduciary net position as a percentage
of the total pension liability

2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015

0.600507% $ 194,996,231 $

0.596671% $

52,771,570 $

0.587382% $ 142,286,911 $

0.575664% $ 123,783,326 $

0.570794% $ 105,951,593 $

0.556539% $ 103,434,487 $

0.548649% $ 113,192,406 $

0.545024% $

82,974,492 $

0.541011% $

68,349,604 $

531,241 $ 149,292 $ 441,602 $ 393,930 $ 347,298 $ 641,751 $ 1,153,692 $ 833,514 $ 659,099 $

195,527,472 $ 52,920,862 $
142,728,513 $ 124,177,256 $ 106,298,891 $ 104,076,238 $ 114,346,098 $
83,808,006 $ 69,008,703 $

81,462,458 77,855,456 75,955,636 70,484,349 68,250,711 64,326,077 60,821,411 57,548,651 55,726,279

239.37% 67.78%
187.33% 175.62% 155.24% 160.80% 186.11% 144.18% 122.65%

72.85% 92.03% 77.01% 78.56% 80.27% 79.33% 76.06% 81.44% 84.03%

This schedule is intended to show information for 10 years. Additional years will be displayed as they become available.

- 37 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
SCHEDULE OF CONTRIBUTIONS TEACHERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "2"

For the Year Ended June 30

Contractually required contribution

Contributions in relation to the contractually required
contribution

Contribution deficiency (excess)

School District's covered payroll

Contribution as a percentage of covered
payroll

2023

$

2022

$

2021

$

2020

$

2019

$

2018

$

2017

$

2016

$

2015 (1)

$

2014 (1)

$

17,687,169 $ 16,093,436 $ 14,797,393 $ 16,007,330 $ 14,684,490 $ 11,435,483 $
9,116,248 $ 8,591,692 $ 7,567,648 $ 6,843,187 $

17,687,169 $ 16,093,436 $ 14,797,393 $ 16,007,330 $ 14,684,490 $ 11,435,483 $
9,116,248 $ 8,591,692 $ 7,567,648 $ 6,843,187 $

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

88,624,773 81,462,458 77,855,456 75,955,636 70,484,349 68,250,711 64,326,077 60,821,411 57,548,651 55,726,279

19.96% 19.76% 19.01% 21.07% 20.83% 16.76% 14.17% 14.13% 13.15% 12.28%

(1) The School District has included on behalf payments with the contributions for years 2015 and prior.

- 38 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION SCHEDULE OF PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE NET PENSION LIABILITY EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "3"

For the Year Ended June 30
2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015

School District's proportion of the Net Pension Liability (NPL)

School District's proportionate share of
the NPL

School District's covered payroll

School District's proportionate share of the NPL as a percentage
of covered payroll

0.006442% $ 0.006333% $ 0.005932% $ 0.005559% $ 0.005430% $ 0.005369% $ 0.005306% $ 0.005178% $ 0.004945% $

430,227 $ 148,123 $ 250,031 $ 229,394 $ 223,229 $ 218,053 $ 250,996 $ 209,781 $ 185,468 $

145,064 151,752 149,574 140,124 138,489 131,703 126,910 118,381 111,347

296.58% 97.61%
167.16% 163.71% 161.19% 165.56% 197.77% 177.21% 166.57%

Plan fiduciary net position as a
percentage of total pension liability
67.44% 87.62% 76.21% 76.74% 76.68% 76.33% 72.34% 76.20% 77.99%

This schedule is intended to show information for 10 years. Additional years will be displayed as they become available.

- 39 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
SCHEDULE OF CONTRIBUTIONS EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "4"

For the Year Ended June 30

Contractually required contribution

Contributions in relation to the contractually required
contribution

Contribution deficiency (excess)

School District's covered payroll

Contribution as a percentage of covered
payroll

2023

$

2022

$

2021

$

2020

$

2019

$

2018

$

2017

$

2016

$

2015

$

2014

$

52,440 $ 35,729 $ 37,422 $ 36,885 $ 34,723 $ 34,359 $ 32,676 $ 31,372 $ 25,997 $ 20,555 $

52,440 $ 35,729 $ 37,422 $ 36,885 $ 34,723 $ 34,359 $ 32,676 $ 31,372 $ 25,997 $ 20,555 $

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

169,106 145,064 151,752 149,574 140,124 138,489 131,703 126,910 118,381 111,347

31.01% 24.63% 24.66% 24.66% 24.78% 24.81% 24.81% 24.72% 21.96% 18.46%

- 40 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION SCHEDULE OF PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE NET PENSION LIABILITY PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF GEORGIA

SCHEDULE "5"

For the Year Ended
June 30

School District's proportion of the Net Pension Liability (NPL)

School District's proportionate share
of the NPL

State of Georgia's proportionate share
of the NPL associated with the
School District

Total

School District's covered payroll

School District's proportionate share of the NPL as a percentage of its covered payroll

Plan fiduciary net position as a
percentage of the total pension
liability

2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015

0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $ 0.00% $

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

1,648,208 $ 168,766 $
1,193,917 $ 1,102,331 $ 1,085,070 $ 1,033,324 $ 1,394,981 $
866,916 $ 802,748 $

1,648,208 $ 168,766 $
1,193,917 $ 1,102,331 $ 1,085,070 $ 1,033,324 $ 1,394,981 $
866,916 $ 802,748 $

3,545,972 3,279,334 3,444,976 3,423,668 3,509,610 3,433,985 3,273,873 3,095,063 3,174,796

0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%

81.21% 98.00% 84.45% 85.02% 85.26% 85.69% 81.00% 87.00% 88.29%

This schedule is intended to show information for 10 years. Additional years will be displayed as they become available.

- 41 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION SCHEDULE OF PROPORTIONATE SHARE OF THE NET OPEB LIABILITY
SCHOOL OPEB FUND

SCHEDULE "6"

For the Year Ended
June 30

School District's proportion of the Net OPEB Liability (NOL)

School District's proportionate share
of the NOL

State of Georgia's proportionate
share of the NOL associated with the School District

Total

School District's covered-employee
payroll

School District's proportionate share of the NOL as a percentage of its coveredemployee payroll

Plan fiduciary net position
as a percentage of the total OPEB
liability

2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018

0.658154% $ 0.646021% $ 0.645484% $ 0.627775% $ 0.616690% $ 0.618828% $

65,178,188 $ 69,969,419 $ 94,806,567 $ 77,041,461 $ 78,379,406 $ 86,945,085 $

-

$

65,178,188 $

55,136,085

-

$

69,969,419 $

53,773,311

-

$

94,806,567 $

53,029,924

-

$

77,041,461 $

51,846,115

-

$

78,379,406 $

47,871,572

-

$

86,945,085 $

45,203,504

118.21% 130.12% 178.78% 148.60% 163.73% 192.34%

6.17% 6.14% 3.99% 4.63% 2.93% 1.61%

This schedule is intended to show information for 10 years. Additional years will be displayed as they become available.

- 42 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
SCHEDULE OF CONTRIBUTIONS SCHOOL OPEB FUND

SCHEDULE "7"

For the Year Ended June 30

Contractually required contribution

Contributions in relation to the contractually required
contribution

Contribution deficiency (excess)

School District's covered-employee
payroll

Contribution as a percentage of
covered-employee payroll

2023

$

2022

$

2021

$

2020

$

2019

$

2018

$

2017

$

2,575,800 $ 2,379,721 $ 2,403,089 $ 2,182,876 $ 3,381,007 $ 3,196,242 $ 3,226,616 $

2,575,800 $ 2,379,721 $ 2,403,089 $ 2,182,876 $ 3,381,007 $ 3,196,242 $ 3,226,616 $

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

-

$

58,927,425 55,136,085 53,773,311 53,029,924 51,846,115 47,871,572 45,203,504

4.37% 4.32% 4.47% 4.12% 6.52% 6.68% 7.14%

This schedule is intended to show information for 10 years. Additional years will be displayed as they become available.

- 43 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

SCHEDULE "8"

Teachers Retirement System Change of benefit terms: There have been no changes in benefit terms.
Changes of assumptions: On November 18, 2015, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates of mortality, retirement, disability, withdrawal and salary increases. The expectation of retired life mortality was changed to RP-2000 White Collar Mortality Table with future mortality improvement projected to 2025 with the Society of Actuaries' projection scale BB (set forward one year for males).
On May 15, 2019, the Board adopted recommended changes from the smoothed valuation interest rate methodology that has been in effect since June 30, 2009, to a constant interest rate method. In conjunction with the methodology, the long-term assumed rate of return in assets (discount rate) has been changed from 7.50% to 7.25%, and the assumed annual rate of inflation has been reduced from 2.75% to 2.50%.
In 2019 and later, the expectation of retired life mortality was changed to the Pub-2010 Teacher Headcount Weighted Below Median Healthy Retiree mortality table from the RP-2000 Mortality Tables. In 2019, rates of withdrawal, retirement, disability and mortality were adjusted to more closely reflect actual experience.
On May 11, 2022, the Board adopted recommended changes to the long-term assumed rate of return and payroll growth assumption utilized by the System. The long-term assumed rate of return was changed from 7.25% to 6.90%, and the payroll growth assumption was changed from 3.00% to 2.50%.
Employees' Retirement System Changes of benefit terms: There have been no changes in benefit terms.
Changes of assumptions: On December 17, 2015, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates of mortality, retirement, disability, withdrawal and salary increases. The expectation of retired life mortality was changed to the RP-2000 Combined Mortality Table projected to 2025 with projection scale BB (set forwarded 2 years for both males and females).
A new funding policy was initially adopted the Board on March 15, 2018, and most recently amended on June 18, 2020. Because of this new funding policy, the assumed investment rate of return was reduced from 7.50% to 7.40% for the June 30, 2017 actuarial valuation and further reduced from 7.40% to 7.30% for the June 30, 2018 actuarial valuation.
On December 17, 2020, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System based on the experience study prepared for the five-year period ending June 30, 2019. Primary among the changes were the updates to rate of mortality, retirement, withdrawal, and salary increases. This also included a change to the long-term assumed investment rate of return of 7.00%. These assumption changes are reflected in the calculation of the June 30, 2021 Total Pension Liability.
On April 21, 2022, the Board adopted a new funding policy which, in part, provides that the Actuarial Accrued Liability and Normal Cost of the System will include a prefunded variable Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for eligible retirees and beneficiaries of the System. Under the new policy, future COLAs are provided through a profit-sharing mechanism using the System's asset performance. After studying the parameters of this new policy, the assumption for future COLAs was set at 1.05%. Previously, no future COLAs were assumed. In addition, the funding policy set the assumed rate of return at 7.20% for the June 30, 2021 valuation and established a new Transitional Unfunded Actuarial Accrued Liability as of June 30, 2021 which will be amortized over a closed 20-year period.
Public School Employees Retirement System Changes of benefit terms: There have been no changes in benefit terms.
Changes of assumptions: On December 17, 2015, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates of mortality, retirement and withdrawal. The expectation of retired life mortality was changed to the RP-2000 Blue Collar Mortality Table projected to 2025 with projection scale BB (set forward 3 years for males and 2 years for females).
A new funding policy was initially adopted by the Board on March 15, 2018, and most recently amended on December 17, 2020. Because of this new funding policy, the assumed investment rate of return was reduced from 7.50% to 7.40% for the June 30, 2017 actuarial valuation and further reduced from 7.40% to 7.30% for the June 30, 2018 actuarial valuation.
On December 17, 2020, the Board adopted recommended changes to the economic and demographic assumptions utilized by the System based on the experience study prepared for the five-year period ending June 30, 2019. Primary among the changes were the updates to rates or mortality, retirement, disability, and withdrawal. This also included a change to the long-term assumed investment rate of return to 7.00%. These assumption changes are reflected in the calculation of the June 30, 2021 Total Pension Liability.

- 44 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION NOTES TO THE REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

SCHEDULE "8"

School OPEB Fund Changes of benefit terms: There have been no changes in benefit terms.
Changes in assumptions: June 30, 2020 valuation: Decremental assumptions were changed to reflect the Employees' Retirement System's experience study. Approximately 0.10% of employees are members of the Employees' Retirement System.
June 30, 2019 valuation: Decremental assumptions were changed to reflect the Teachers Retirement System's experience study.
June 30, 2018 valuation: The inflation assumption was lowered from 2.75% to 2.50%.
June 30, 2017 valuation: The participation assumption, tobacco use assumption and morbidity factors were revised.
June 30, 2015 valuation: Decremental and underlying inflation assumptions were changed to reflect the Retirement Systems' experience studies.
June 30, 2012 valuation: A data audit was performed and data collection procedures and assumptions were changed.
The discount rate was updated from 3.07% as of June 30, 2016 to 3.58% as of June 30, 2017, to 3.87% as of June 30, 2018, back to 3.58% as of June 30, 2019, and to 2.22% as of June 30, 2020, and 3.57% as of June 30, 2022.

- 45 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION GENERAL FUND
SCHEDULE OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES, AND CHANGES IN FUND BALANCES BUDGET AND ACTUAL
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

SCHEDULE "9"

REVENUES Property Taxes Sales Taxes Other Taxes State Funds Federal Funds Charges for Services Investment Earnings Miscellaneous Total Revenues
EXPENDITURES Current Instruction Support Services Pupil Services Improvement of Instructional Services Educational Media Services General Administration School Administration Business Administration Maintenance and Operation of Plant Student Transportation Services Community Services Food Services Operation Capital Outlay Total Expenditures
Excess of Revenues over (under) Expenditures
OTHER FINANCING SOURCES(USES) Other Sources Other Uses Total Other Financing Sources (Uses)
Net Change in Fund Balances
Fund Balances - Beginning
Fund Balances - Ending

NONAPPROPRIATED BUDGETS

ORIGINAL (1)

FINAL (1)

ACTUAL AMOUNTS

VARIANCE OVER/UNDER

$

44,966,591 $

44,966,591 $

45,253,288 $

-

-

1,091,672

2,200,000

2,200,000

2,450,540

94,958,015

94,969,991

101,736,139

8,621,979

9,222,644

17,863,277

1,821,500

1,821,500

2,532,534

-

-

24,623

650,000

650,000

6,520,769

153,218,085

153,830,726

177,472,842

286,697 1,091,672
250,540 6,766,148 8,640,633
711,034 24,623
5,870,769 23,642,116

95,966,444
9,771,660 5,357,577 2,218,050 3,065,566 9,640,587 1,795,804 9,997,717 6,783,046
7,992,963 2,092,000 154,681,414 (1,463,329)

1,500,000 (1,500,000)
-

(1,463,329)

17,387,739

$

15,924,410 $

96,151,906
9,783,483 5,424,332 2,218,050 3,066,739 9,640,587 1,795,804 9,997,717 6,783,046
7,992,963 2,092,000 154,946,627 (1,115,901)
1,500,000 (1,500,000)
-
(1,115,901)
28,291,174
27,175,273 $

109,387,919
9,440,381 7,257,335 2,215,384 3,702,935 10,000,308 2,073,990 12,034,186 7,666,840
7,046 7,328,570
98,536 171,213,430
6,259,412
3,371,424 -
3,371,424
9,630,836
28,540,045
38,170,881 $

(13,236,013)
343,102 (1,833,003)
2,666 (636,196) (359,721) (278,186) (2,036,469) (883,794)
(7,046) 664,393 1,993,464 (16,266,803) 7,375,313
1,871,424 1,500,000 3,371,424
10,746,737
248,871
10,995,608

Notes to the Schedule of Revenues, Expenditures and Changes in Fund Balances Budget and Actual
(1) Original and Final Budget amounts do not include the budgeted revenues or expenditures of the various principal accounts. The actual revenues and expenditures of the various principal accounts are $4,340,646 and $3,974,841, respectively.
The accompanying schedule of revenues, expenditures and changes in fund balances budget and actual is presented on the modified accrual basis of accounting which is the basis of accounting used in the presentation of the fund financial statements.

See notes to the basic financial statements.

- 46 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES OF FEDERAL AWARDS
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

SCHEDULE "10"

FUNDING AGENCY PROGRAM/GRANT Agriculture, U. S. Department of
Child Nutrition Cluster Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education Food Services School Breakfast Program National School Lunch Program COVID-19 - National School Lunch Program Total Child Nutrition Cluster
Other Programs Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education Food Services State Administrative Expenses for Child Nutrition Total U. S. Department of Agriculture
Education, U. S. Department of Education Stabilization Fund Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education COVID-19 - American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund COVID-19 - American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund - Homeless Children and Youth Total Education Stabilization Fund
Special Education Cluster Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education Special Education Grants to States Preschool Grants Total Special Education Cluster
Other Programs Pass-Through From Georgia Department of Education Career and Technical Education - Basic Grants to States Career and Technical Education - Basic Grants to States English Language Acquisition State Grants English Language Acquisition State Grants Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies Total Other Programs Total U. S. Department of Education
Federal Communications Commission, U.S. Direct COVID-19 Emergency Connectivity Fund Program
Health and Human Services, U. S. Department of Pass-Through From Bright From the Start Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning COVID-19 - Child Care and Development Block Grant

ASSISTANCE LISTING NUMBER

PASSTHROUGH
ENTITY ID
NUMBER

EXPENDITURES IN PERIOD

10.553 10.555 10.555

235GA324N1199 $ 235GA324N1199 225GA324N1099

1,030,524 5,073,390
385,752 6,489,666

10.560

235GA904N2533

5,889 6,495,555

84.425U 84.425W

S425U210012 S425W210011

6,144,843
18,781 6,163,624

84.027A 84.173A

H027A220073 H173A220081

84.048A 84.048A 84.365A 84.365A 84.367A 84.010A 84.010A

V048A210010 V048A220010 S365A210010 S365A220010 S367A210001 S010A210010-21A S010A220010

32.009

2,446,988 71,752
2,518,740
5,956 107,077
6,529 37,212 298,854 12,118 1,916,431 2,384,177 11,066,541
1,277,940

93.575

2210GACCC5

135,000

- 47 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF EXPENDITURES OF FEDERAL AWARDS
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

SCHEDULE "10"

FUNDING AGENCY PROGRAM/GRANT
Defense, U. S. Department of Direct Department of the Air Force R.O.T.C. Program Department of the Navy R.O.T.C. Program Total U.S. Department of Defense
Total Expenditures of Federal Awards

ASSISTANCE LISTING NUMBER

PASSTHROUGH
ENTITY ID
NUMBER

EXPENDITURES IN PERIOD

12. UNKNOWN 12. UNKNOWN

76,820

84,114 160,934

$

19,135,970

Notes to the Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards
Note 1. Basis of Presentation
The accompanying schedule of expenditures of federal awards (the "Schedule") includes the federal award activity of the Effingham County Board of Education (the "Board") under programs of the federal government for the year ended June 30, 2023. The information in this Schedule is presented in accordance with the requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Because the Schedule presents only a selected portion of the operations of the Board, it is not intended to and does not present the financial position or changes in net position of the Board.
Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Expenditures reported on the Schedule are reported on the modified accrual basis of accounting. Such expenditures are recognized following the cost principles contained in the Uniform Guidance, wherein certain types of expenditures are not allowable or are limited as to reimbursement.
Note 3. Indirect Cost Rate
The Board has elected not to use the 10-percent de minimis indirect cost rate as allowed under the Uniform Guidance.
Note 4. Transfers Between Funds
Funds totaling $120,717 were transferred from the Student Support and Academic Enrichment program (ALN 84.424A) and expended in the Title I Grants to Local Educational Agencies program (ALN 84.010A) during Fiscal Year 2023.

See notes to the basic financial statements.

- 48 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF STATE REVENUE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023
AGENCY/FUNDING GRANTS Bright From the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning Pre-Kindergarten Program Education, Georgia Department of Quality Basic Education Direct Instructional Cost Kindergarten Program Kindergarten Program - Early Intervention Program Primary Grades (1-3) Program Primary Grades - Early Intervention (1-3) Program Upper Elementary Grades (4-5) Program Upper Elementary Grades - Early Intervention (4-5) Program Middle School (6-8) Program High School General Education (9-12) Program Vocational Laboratory (9-12) Program Students with Disabilities Gifted Student - Category VI Remedial Education Program Alternative Education Program English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Media Center Program 20 Days Additional Instruction Staff and Professional Development Indirect Cost Central Administration School Administration Facility Maintenance and Operations One Time QBE Adjustment Categorical Grants Pupil Transportation Regular Nursing Services Vocational Supervisors Education Equalization Funding Grant Other State Programs Computer Science Capacity Grant (CS4GA) Grant Food Services Math and Science Supplements Preschool Disability Services Pupil Transportation - State Bonds School Security Grant Teachers Retirement Vocational Education Office of the State Treasurer Public School Employees Retirement
See notes to the basic financial statements.

SCHEDULE "11"

GOVERNMENTAL FUND TYPE
GENERAL FUND

$

3,075,230

4,984,968 407,396
11,190,077 1,599,060 5,190,198 1,174,940 9,443,742 8,024,374 2,870,364
17,002,228 4,294,309 724,454 677,645 455,608 1,714,903 508,309 326,272
1,998,464 2,962,924 3,548,055 2,993,490

1,350,945 296,876 24,244
12,793,400

4,576 302,660 107,557 340,875 528,660 325,000
44,048 232,655

217,633

$

101,736,139

- 49 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF APPROVED LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX PROJECTS
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

SCHEDULE "12"

PROJECT SPLOST VI
Adding to, remodeling, renovating, improving, and equipping existing and new educational buildings, properties, and facilities and acquiring property, both real and personal, necessary therefore, including athletic and physical education improvements, HVAC improvements and equipment.
School buses and maintenance vehicles.
Computers and related technology purchases; textbooks (including e-books and other electronic instructional materials); band, vocational, fine arts, media, food service and security safety equipment.
Total

ORIGINAL ESTIMATED
COST (1)

CURRENT ESTIMATED COSTS (2)

$

60,000,000 $

60,000,000

5,000,000

5,000,000

10,000,000

10,000,000

$

75,000,000 $

75,000,000

ESTIMATED COMPLETION
DATE
6/1/2027 6/1/2027
6/1/2027

- 50 -

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF APPROVED LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX PROJECTS
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

SCHEDULE "12"

PROJECT SPLOST VI

AMOUNT EXPENDED IN CURRENT YEAR (3) (4)

AMOUNT EXPENDED IN PRIOR YEARS (3) (4)

TOTAL COMPLETION
COST

EXCESS PROCEEDS NOT
EXPENDED

Adding to, remodeling, renovating, improving, and equipping existing and new

educational buildings, properties, and facilities and acquiring property, both real and

personal, necessary therefore, including athletic and physical education

improvements, HVAC improvements and equipment.

$

24,671,640 $

8,820,237 $

- $

-

School buses and maintenance vehicles.

1,079,046

-

-

-

Computers and related technology purchases; textbooks (including e-books and

other electronic instructional materials); band, vocational, fine arts, media, food

service and security safety equipment.

2,906,395

-

-

-

Total

$

28,657,081 $

8,820,237 $

- $

-

(1) The School District's original cost estimate as specified in the resolution calling for the imposition of the Local Option Sales Tax. (2) The School District's current estimate of total cost for the projects. Includes all cost from project inception to completion. (3) The voters of Effingham County approved the imposition of a 1% sales tax to fund the above projects and retire associated debt.
Amounts expended for these projects may include sales tax proceeds, state, local property taxes and/or other funds over the life of the projects. (4) In addition to the expenditures shown above, the School District has incurred interest to provide advance funding as follows:

Prior Years Current Year

$

-

1,878,415

Total

$

1,878,415

See notes to the basic financial statements.

- 51 -

Section II Compliance and Internal Control Reports

Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING AND ON COMPLIANCE AND OTHER MATTERS BASED ON AN AUDIT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS PERFORMED IN ACCORDANCE WITH GOVERNMENT AUDITING STANDARDS
The Honorable Brian P. Kemp, Governor of Georgia Members of the General Assembly of the State of Georgia Members of the State Board of Education
and Dr. Yancy Ford, Superintendent and Members of the Effingham County Board of Education
We have audited the financial statements of the governmental activities and each major fund of the Effingham County Board of Education (School District) as of and for the year ended June 30, 2023, and the related notes to the financial statements, which collectively comprise the School District's basic financial statements, and have issued our report thereon dated November 12, 2024. We conducted our audit in accordance with the auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS) and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States.
Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
In planning and performing our audit of the financial statements, we considered the School District's internal control over financial reporting (internal control) as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances for the purpose of expressing our opinions on the basic financial statements, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control. Accordingly, we do not express an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control.
A deficiency in internal control exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent, or detect and correct, misstatements on a timely basis. A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the School District's financial statements will not be prevented, or detected and corrected, on a timely basis. A significant deficiency is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control that is less severe than a material weakness, yet important enough to merit attention by those charged with governance.
Our consideration of internal control was for the limited purpose described in the first paragraph of this section and was not designed to identify all deficiencies in internal control that might be material weaknesses or significant deficiencies and therefore, material weaknesses or significant deficiencies may exist that were not identified. We did identify a certain deficiency in internal control, described in the accompanying Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs in finding FS 2023-001 that we consider to be a material weakness.
270 Washington Street, SW, Suite 4-101 Atlanta, Georgia 30334 | Phone (404) 656-2180

Report on Compliance and Other Matters
As part of obtaining reasonable assurance about whether the School District's financial statements are free from material misstatement, we performed tests of its compliance with certain provisions of laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements, noncompliance with which could have a direct and material effect on the financial statements. However, providing an opinion on compliance with those provisions was not an objective of our audit, and accordingly, we do not express such an opinion. The results of our tests disclosed no instances of noncompliance or other matters that are required to be reported under Government Auditing Standards.
School District's Response to Findings
Government Auditing Standards requires the auditor to perform limited procedures on the School District's response to the finding identified in our audit and described in the accompanying Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs. The School District's response was not subjected to the other auditing procedures applied in the audit of the financial statements and, accordingly, we express no opinion on the response.
Purpose of this Report
The purpose of this report is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control and compliance and the results of that testing, and not to provide an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control or on compliance. This report is an integral part of an audit performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards in considering the School District's internal control and compliance. Accordingly, this communication is not suitable for any other purpose.
Respectfully submitted,
Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
November 12, 2024

Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT ON COMPLIANCE FOR EACH MAJOR FEDERAL PROGRAM AND ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER COMPLIANCE REQUIRED BY THE UNIFORM GUIDANCE
The Honorable Brian P. Kemp, Governor of Georgia Members of the General Assembly of the State of Georgia Members of the State Board of Education
and Dr. Yancy Ford, Superintendent and Members of the Effingham County Board of Education
Report on Compliance for Each Major Federal Program
Opinion on Each Major Federal Program
We have audited the Effingham County Board of Education's (School District) compliance with the types of compliance requirements identified as subject to audit in the OMB Compliance Supplement that could have a direct and material effect on each of the School District's major federal programs for the year ended June 30, 2023. The School District's major federal programs are identified in the Summary of Auditor's Results section of the accompanying Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs.
In our opinion, the School District complied, in all material respects, with the compliance requirements referred to above that could have a direct and material effect on each of its major federal programs for the year ended June 30, 2023.
Basis for Opinion on Each Major Federal Program
We conducted our audit of compliance in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAS); the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards issued by the Comptroller General of the United States; and the audit requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance). Our responsibilities under those standards and the Uniform Guidance are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of Compliance section of our report.
We are required to be independent of the School District and to meet our other ethical responsibilities, in accordance with relevant ethical requirements relating to our audit. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion on compliance for each major federal program. Our audit does not provide a legal determination of the School District's compliance with the compliance requirements referred to above.
270 Washington Street, SW, Suite 4-101 Atlanta, Georgia 30334 | Phone (404) 656-2180

Responsibilities of Management for Compliance
Management is responsible for compliance with the requirements referred to above and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of effective internal control over compliance with the requirements of laws, statutes, regulations, rules and provisions of contracts or grant agreements applicable to the School District's federal programs.
Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of Compliance
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether material noncompliance with the compliance requirements referred to above occurred, whether due to fraud or error, and express an opinion on the School District's compliance based on our audit. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with GAAS, Government Auditing Standards, and the Uniform Guidance will always detect material noncompliance when it exists. The risk of not detecting material noncompliance resulting from fraud is higher than for that resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Noncompliance with the compliance requirements referred to above is considered material, if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, it would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user of the report on compliance about the School District's compliance with the requirements of each major federal program as a whole.
In performing an audit in accordance with GAAS, Government Auditing Standards, and the Uniform Guidance, we:
Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.
Identify and assess the risks of material noncompliance, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the School District's compliance with the compliance requirements referred to above and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.
Obtain an understanding of the School District's internal control over compliance relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances and to test and report on internal control over compliance in accordance with the Uniform Guidance, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the School District's internal control over compliance. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.
We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and any significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in internal control over compliance that we identified during the audit.
Report on Internal Control over Compliance
A deficiency in internal control over compliance exists when the design or operation of a control over compliance does not allow management or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned functions, to prevent, or detect and correct, noncompliance with a type of compliance requirement of a federal program on a timely basis. A material weakness in internal control over compliance is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over compliance, such that there is a reasonable possibility that material noncompliance with a type of compliance

requirement of a federal program will not be prevented, or detected and corrected, on a timely basis. A significant deficiency in internal control over compliance is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over compliance with a type of compliance requirement of a federal program that is less severe than a material weakness in internal control over compliance, yet important enough to merit attention by those charged with governance.
Our consideration of internal control over compliance was for the limited purpose described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of Compliance section above and was not designed to identify all deficiencies in internal control over compliance that might be material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in internal control over compliance. Given these limitations, during our audit we did not identify any deficiencies in internal control over compliance that we consider to be material weaknesses, as defined above. However, material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in internal control over compliance may exist that were not identified.
Our audit was not designed for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of internal control over compliance. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.
The purpose of this report on internal control over compliance is solely to describe the scope of our testing of internal control over compliance and the results of that testing based on the requirements of the Uniform Guidance. Accordingly, this report is not suitable for any other purpose.
Respectfully submitted,
Greg S. Griffin State Auditor
November 12, 2024

Section III Auditee's Response to Prior Year Findings and Questioned Costs

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION AUDITEE'S RESPONSE
SUMMARY SCHEDULE OF PRIOR AUDIT FINDINGS YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

PRIOR YEAR FINANCIAL STATEMENT FINDINGS

FS 2022-001 Internal Controls over Financial Reporting

Finding Status:

Unresolved

The School District has made multiple changes as a result of the FY 2022-001 finding. As stated in the corrective action plan for this finding, we have coordinated with the capital projects contractors to submit June 30th invoices with no cross-year billing.
Beginning fiscal year 2024, the School District will be utilizing a different financial statement preparer, which is a change from the previous year's practices. This change aims to enhance the accuracy and transparency of financial reporting. The net position classification will be provided by the Effingham County Board of Education's Finance Department, to the financial statement preparer.
Providing the net position details along with changing the invoice dates to June 30th will complete the implementation of the corrective action plan for finding FS 2022-001.
PRIOR YEAR FEDERAL AWARD FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS

No matters were reported.

Section IV Findings and Questioned Costs

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

I SUMMARY OF AUDITOR'S RESULTS

Financial Statements

Type of auditor's report issued: Governmental Activities and Each Major Fund

Internal control over financial reporting: Material weakness(es) identified?
Significant deficiency(ies) identified?

Noncompliance material to financial statements noted:

Federal Awards

Internal control over major programs: Material weakness(es) identified?
Significant deficiency(ies) identified?

Type of auditor's report issued on compliance for major programs:

All major programs

Any audit findings disclosed that are required to be reported in accordance with 2 CFR 200.516(a)?

Identification of major programs:

Assistance Listing Number Assistance Listing Program or Cluster Title

10.553,10.555 32.009 84.425

Child Nutrition Cluster Emergency Connectivity Fund Education Stabilization Fund

Dollar threshold used to distinguish between Type A and Type B programs:

Auditee qualified as low-risk auditee?

Unmodified Yes
None Reported No
No None Reported
Unmodified No
$750,000 No

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023

II FINANCIAL STATEMENT FINDINGS

FS 2023-001 Internal Controls over Financial Reporting

Internal Control Impact: Repeat of Prior Year Finding:

Material Weakness 2022-001

Description: The School District did not have adequate internal controls in place over the financial statement reporting process. The original financial statements as presented for audit, contained significant errors and omissions.
Criteria: Management is responsible for having adequate controls over the preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). The School District's internal controls over GAAP financial reporting should include adequately trained personnel with the knowledge, skills, and experience to prepare GAAP based financial statements and include all disclosures as required by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB).
GASB Statement No. 34, Basic Financial Statements Management's Discussion and Analysis for State and Local Governments (Statement), requires governments to present government-wide and fund financial statements as well as a summary reconciliation of the (a) total governmental funds balances to the net position of governmental activities in the Statement of Net Position, and (b) total change in governmental fund balances to the change in the net position of governmental activities in the Statement of Activities. In addition, the Statement requires information about the government's major and nonmajor funds in the aggregate, to be provided in the fund financial statements.
Chapter II 2, Annual Financial Reporting of the Financial Management for Georgia Local Units of Administration provides that the School Districts must prepare their financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
Condition: The following errors and omissions were noted in the School District's financial statements, note disclosures, required supplementary information, and supplementary information.
Construction costs for numerous capital outlay projects completed during the fiscal year were not properly capitalized. A material adjustment was proposed by the auditors and accepted by the School District, to correct capital assets and expenses in the amount of $15,014,865 on the government-wide financial statements.
An adjustment totaling $2,317,536 was proposed by the auditors and accepted by the School District to properly report the net gain on the sale of an asset on the government-wide financial statements.
A reclassification entry totaling $33,027,219 was proposed by the auditors and accepted by the School District to properly classify net investment in capital assets, net position restricted for capital projects and unrestricted net position on the government-wide financial statements.
Other correction and reclassification entries were proposed by the auditors and accepted by the School District to properly present the School District's financial statements, note disclosures, required supplementary information and supplementary information.

EFFINGHAM COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION SCHEDULE OF FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2023
Cause: These deficiencies were caused by not adequately reviewing the financial statements before submission and not recording construction related liabilities that were based on invoice periods that included amounts of work performed in the current year and other errors.
Effect: Material and significant misstatements were included in the financial statements presented for audit. The lack of controls and monitoring could impact the reporting of the School District's financial position and results of operations.
Recommendation: The School District should strengthen the internal controls and review procedures over the financial process to ensure that the financial statements presented for audit are complete and accurate. These procedures should include a detailed review of construction in progress and construction related liabilities at fiscal year-end. The School District should also consider implementing the use of a review checklist to assist in the review process over the financial statements.
Views of Responsible Officials: We concur with this finding.
lll FEDERAL AWARD FINDINGS AND QUESTIONED COSTS
No matters were reported.

Section V Management's Corrective Action