CHULA — Tiftarea Academy won first prize in the Georgia Independent School Association state literary meet March 15, perhaps making a little history. It is believed to be the first state literary title for Tiftarea.

Tiftarea accumulated 37 points to win Class AAA. Southland Academy was second at 31, with Westfield third at 30.33.

The Chula school won in three categories: Chandler Livingston was first in spelling, Ansley Hutto won for dramatic oral interpretation and Sarah Hutto and Collin Reese combined to win duo oral interpretation. In addition, Thomas Holt placed second in impromptu and Reid Phillips was second in humorous oral interpretation.

Holt tied for first with another student but she ultimately earned first. Coach Natalie Rippy said an attorney approached Holt after the meet and encouraged him to go into law.

Meredith Morgan earned third in personal essay, as did John O’Quinn in boys solo. Holt also had a sixth place in piano.

Rippy said a couple of months ago, she asked the boys if someone would volunteer to sing a solo to earn them a point at a literary meet. O’Quinn volunteered. “He had never sang in public,” she said. Rippy said the state meet was only the third time O’Quinn had ever sung in front of an audience.

Morgan came within five points of first place.

The state meet was held at Gordon State in Barnesville.