Winning a state championship is extraordinary for any student, but it is exceptional for a freshman competing at her first GHSA (Georgia High School Association) Literary State Meet.

Menaka Reddy of Fayette County High School became the school’s first freshman to win the championship in the girls Extemporaneous Speaking division of the state competition. Her victory gave the school its third state championship in this division, and the first since 2002.

“This is a fantastic accomplishment for anyone, and especially a freshman,” said Jeffrey Miller, mathematics teacher and director of speech and debate at Fayette County High.

Contestants are rated on organization, analysis of topic, subject, reasoning, expression, diction, and delivery.