Senior Spotlight: GWUOHS Student Peyton Balances Ballet and Academics with the Flexibility of GWUOHS

At George Washington University Online High School (GWUOHS), students don’t have to choose between their education and their passion. Just ask senior Peyton G. who has spent the past two years mastering high-level academics while training—and now performing—at the highest levels of classical ballet.

“Joining GWUOHS at the beginning of my sophomore year turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” said Peyton. “My experience has been truly transformative, both academically and personally.”

Peyton recently accomplished a remarkable milestone, earning a coveted spot as an apprentice with the New York City Ballet. She credits GWUOHS for providing the structure, flexibility, and academic excellence that helped her balance two demanding worlds.

Flexibility That Fuels Passion and Purpose

A student at the prestigious School of American Ballet, Peyton needed a high school program that could support her unique schedule—early morning rehearsals, intensive training, and frequent performances—without compromising her academic goals.

“Managing both ballet and school was certainly demanding,” she said. “But the personalized support and understanding of the GWUOHS faculty made it possible.”

Thanks to the adaptable learning environment at GWUOHS, Peyton was able to commit fully to her training while staying on track academically. Weekly live classes, engaging coursework, and accessible instructors helped her thrive.

“Despite being in an online environment, I felt connected to my teachers and classmates through meaningful discussions, help desks, and weekly lessons,” Peyton said. “The courses challenged me intellectually and helped me develop essential life skills like time management, accountability, and self-discipline.”

A Personalized Online High School Experience

Chelsea Crawford, Peyton’s academic advisor at GWUOHS, worked closely with her throughout her high school journey.

“Peyton is a shining example of how GWUOHS empowers students to pursue their passions while maintaining strong academic performance,” Crawford shared. “She attends live classes, actively engages with teachers for support, and consistently meets with me to stay on track.”

Peyton’s dedication to both her academics and her dance training illustrates what makes GWUOHS unique: an education model that meets students where they are and supports where they want to go.

Looking Ahead: College and Career as a Professional Dancer

This fall, Peyton will begin taking courses at Fordham University’s School of Professional and Continuing Studies while continuing her apprenticeship with the New York City Ballet.

“I’ll be taking one or two courses per semester to maintain balance,” she said. “My goal is to continue growing both as a dancer and a student. In the next year, I hope to be promoted to the corps de ballet.”

With plans to pursue higher education and a professional dance career simultaneously, Peyton embodies the kind of ambition and discipline that GWUOHS was designed to support.

Discover What’s Possible at GWUOHS

Whether your child is a competitive athlete, a performing artist, or simply seeking a more personalized academic environment, GWUOHS provides the flexibility and support to help students thrive. Explore how GWUOHS can help your student achieve their goals—no matter where their passions lead.