Academy for Academic Excellence officials announced senior Natalie Ritter, an Air Force Junior ROTC cadet, has been awarded a prestigious aviation scholarship.
Ritter will graduate in 2025 and attend an accredited aviation university that summer, according to the Apple Valley-based school.
This scholarship allows Ritter to participate in a private pilot license training program and earn her private pilot certification.
The scholarship valued at approximately $27,000 covers all expenses, including transportation, room and board, academics, and flight hours necessary to earn a private pilot license potentially.
Out of 1,203 applicants worldwide, Ritter is one of 194 cadets selected for the program, school officials stated.
Additionally, senior Connor Dawly was appointed to the United States Merchant Marine Academy. He received a full-ride scholarship for college and will major in engineering. After graduation, he will be commissioned as an officer, school officials said.
The Flight Academy Scholarship Program is an Air Force-level initiative designed to address the national pilot shortage in both civilian and military sectors.
Through an eight-week summer course hosted by partner universities, this program allows cadets to achieve their private pilot’s certification at no cost. Participants incur no military obligation and can also earn college credit.
The Air Force Junior ROTC program’s mission is to develop citizens of character, and cadet Ritter’s success exemplifies this commitment, school officials stated.
The last student at Academy for Academic Excellence to earn the aviation scholarship was former senior Alejandro Aguirre in 2022.
Academy for Academic Excellence is a TK to 12th grade charter school established in 1997 as a Lewis Center for Educational Research school.
The academy is recognized for its rigorous academic curriculum, focus on STEM education, and commitment to preparing students for college and career success.
“The school’s mission is to create global citizens who thrive academically, socially, and personally,” school officials stated. “AAE is proud to celebrate Cadet Ritter’s exceptional accomplishment and looks forward to seeing her soar to new heights in the field of aviation.”
