By Barbara Augsdorfer, Editor for the Effingham Herald

After 20 years on the Effingham County School District Board of Education Lamar Allen is stepping down.

Allen was first elected in 2004, to the seat held by his father George. In 2025, the seat will still be held by an Allen – this time Lamar’s son Troy.

The video tribute presented at the Dec. 4 meeting featured accolades by fellow board members, family, and district employees who highlighted the elder Allen’s passion for education – notably his push to bring specialty schools and programs to the district.

“Mr. Lamar has left an indelible mark on our community,” ECSD Superintendent Dr. Yancy Ford began his remarks. “His vision helped bring to life the Effingham College and Career Academy, STEM programs, CTAE, Crossroads Academy and EnCompass Academy.”

Allen also worked to purchase and develop the Honey Ridge Agricenter and adding the show arena.

Ford added that it was Allen’s vision to create EnCompass Academy so those students would no longer have to be put on a bus for an hour-long ride to Savannah.

“(It was) those initiatives that continue to provide students with opportunities where they can excel and have success,” Dr. Ford added.

In the 20 years that Allen has been a member of the board and chairman, more than 16,000 students have graduated from Effingham County and South Effingham high schools, Crossroads and Encompass; representing Allen’s “unwavering belief of providing every child with a pathway to success after they leave high school,” Dr. Ford said. “Mr. Allen’s life of service is rooted in his deep love for Effingham County.”

Troy Allen summed up what his father's legacy means to the district.

“The shoes you’ve left to fill will be just about impossible for me to fill,” Board member-elect Allen said. “But it just proves how much you love this community; and definitely how much you love this school system.

“I’m proud of you. It’s been a great 20 years,” the younger Allen added. “Now you can sit back and enjoy and tell me what to do.”