30 Dec 2023 Youth of the Month: Caleb Pettis

By Mary Eggart

Following his graduation in May 2024, Caleb Pettis is looking forward to a bright future; however, he knows that he will be leaving a big part of his heart at Searcy High School as he crosses over into the next phase of life. 

Pettis is an outstanding student who goes above and beyond in all aspects of his life. Throughout his high school career, Pettis has taken an active role as a student leader. He has been a member of FCCLA (Future Career and Community Leaders of America), FTA (Future Teachers Association), Key Club, Student Council and Partners Club. In fact, Pettis is the current Student Council President, and he takes great pride in serving and representing his fellow students. He said, “I help represent Search High School and the bright, intelligent students who make it what it is.” 

Pettis said his senior year “has been one to remember so far. I have created bonds with so many new friends and helped build a positive community while doing so.” Pettis credited his teachers for their roles in his life throughout high school and stated, “I will miss my amazing teachers who have taught me many useful life lessons. They really go underappreciated, and I will forever be thankful for them.”

Tennis is another one of Pettis’ passions. He has been playing since he was 8 years old. when he was introduced to the sport by a good friend. He credits his experiences playing tennis for opening up doors to many new experiences that he otherwise would not have had. Pettis said that his favorite part of playing and competing is the connections he has made over the years. He said, “Playing opponents from schools nearby has helped me make new friends from other schools that I will have by my side for the rest of my life.” He has been awarded All-Conference honors and competed at the state level.

Pettis credits his mother for all his success and said she is the most influential person in his life. He stated, “She comes to all my sporting events and activities and always knows the right thing to tell me. She has taught me to be passionate about my abilities in a sport I love while never going against my morals to do so. I am so thankful for her and who she has helped me to become.”

Not only is Pettis active within his high school, but he is also a dedicated dance instructor at Searcy School of Dance, where he choreographs competitive routines for his students. He has truly enjoyed every minute of working with his students and seeing their progress and success. Pettis teaches solo, duet and trio routines as well as large group dances to put on stage. He has thoroughly enjoyed attending competitions with his students, which have taken him all over the country. Most of their competitions have been in Arkansas, but Pettis’ favorite competition location has been New York.

Pettis’ skills as a dance instructor come from many years of being a dancer himself. He began dancing competitively when he was 5 years old. He has competed in tap, ballet, hip-hop, lyrical, contemporary and many other styles of dance.  

After graduation, Pettis plans to attend the University of Arkansas. His plan is to study psychology and/or marketing and advertising. Psychology appeals to Pettis because of his love of people and serving others. Pettis said, “I love helping people out and thought that [psychology] would be a great way to have a career in something I love.” He believes that the U of A is a great fit for him because it’s far enough away from home that he can experience a different lifestyle in Northwest Arkansas, but it is close enough to home that he can see his family and friends whenever he likes. Pettis said that he loves the university’s campus and the entire atmosphere it brings. He is looking forward to gaining new friendships and opportunities to serve others.