Mount Vernon High Senior Earns Appointment to West Point After Eight School Moves

Alexandria, VA – After attending eight schools across five states during her K-12 education, Audrey Ortiz-Peterson will graduate this June from Mount Vernon High School and continue her journey at United States Military Academy at West Point.

The daughter of a U.S. Air Force pilot, Ortiz-Peterson experienced frequent relocations common among military families, attending schools in New Mexico, Florida, Alaska, Alabama, and Virginia. Despite the challenges of repeatedly starting over, she transformed those experiences into opportunities for leadership, academic achievement, and athletic success.

At Mount Vernon High School, Ortiz-Peterson became deeply involved in both academics and student life. She enrolled in the school’s International Baccalaureate career program and emerged as a leader among military-connected students through the school’s Purple Team organization. Over four years, she served in multiple leadership roles, eventually becoming president of the group dedicated to supporting military families and helping students transition into new school communities.

Ortiz-Peterson also excelled in athletics, becoming captain of the school’s cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track teams during her senior year. Teammates recognized her for encouraging others, organizing practices, and building a stronger sense of unity among athletes.

She credits her success to resilience developed through years of moving, along with support from teachers, coaches, friends, and family.

Ortiz-Peterson said each new school taught her adaptability and perseverance — qualities she plans to carry with her as she begins the next chapter of service and leadership at West Point.