Just about every girl growing up dreams of being prom queen.
So did Andii Viveros, who had her wish become a reality when she was crowned McFatter High School's prom queen Friday night.
Viveros, who for the past two years has gone by the names Andii and Andrew, is a transgender student. Viveros said she doesn't identify completely as either a female or male, and her parents still refer to her as a male. Viveros fought to get her name on the prom queen ballot.
"I was in shock," Viveros said. "I was just smiling."
Viveros received the most votes over 14 girls for the coveted title at the technical school.
A few students didn't think Viveros should have been allowed to compete for the title and started a petition to get her name off the ballot for prom queen. Viveros, who is also president of the school's Gay-Straight Alliance, wrote a speech to explain why she had a right to run.
"Why would I run for prom king? I'll have to wear a tux, which I'm not going to do," Viveros said. "I'm going to wear an evening gown."
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The prom king, Juan Macias, is also a member of the Gay-Straight Alliance.
Viveros' parents were also proud of their child's accomplishment.
"He's my child and I'm going to love him no matter what," Viveros' mom, Bernadette Viveros said.
Now, Andii hopes the crown and sash helps pave the way for other teens like her.
"It can open up doors for others who don't have a lot of encouragement," Viveros said.
