by Tim Schodowski
Assistant Superintendent, Cumberland Academy
Addison Petty is a Junior at Cumberland Academy High School. She is a resident of Arp, Texas and has attended Cumberland Academy beginning in the third grade. Addison is the daughter of Michelle and Steven Petty, and she has twin sisters, Ainsley and Ashlynn, who are currently eighth graders at Cumberland Academy Middle School. Addison has held an unwavering interest in the Performing Arts, making Cumberland Academy her school of choice. She is currently pursuing a Fine Arts endorsement for her diploma and has most certainly found her niche at Cumberland Academy. The faculty and facilities of the Fine Arts Department are top notch, making it an excellent space to grow in the arts. Addison is very active on campus and pursues polished perfection in all her endeavors. Her unwavering commitment to her fellow classmates as well as her self-discipline make her a standout student, performer, and person.
Addison is a third-year member of the award-winning Cumberland Academy High School Royals Dance Team. Addison played a vital role in the Royals winning the Sweepstakes Awards in Hip-Hop, Jazz and Contemporary Dance last spring. She currently serves as Captain and is challenging herself by taking on additional creative, administrative, and instructional responsibilities. Addison won the Best Overall Technique Award at the Royals’ most recent dance competition. Addison is also a member of the CAHS Chamber Orchestra where she plays violin. She helped the orchestra earn the Sweepstakes Award at last year’s UIL Concert and Sightreading Contest and earned an individual First Division (Superior) medal at the UIL Regional Solo and Ensemble Competition for her solo violin performance. When opportunities arise, Addison enjoys participating in different theater productions as well.
When she’s not on the stage, Addison has proven herself to be a diligent student and committed to school service. Addison demonstrates a strong work ethic by staying busy with her studies while taking upper-level academic courses. She is a member of CAHS National Honor Society, serves as the CAHS Student Council Vice President, and is enrolled in multiple Tyler Junior College dual credit courses this year. She is currently ranked in the top 10% of her class.
Addison’s teachers comment on her attitude and accomplishments. Jennifer Brosang, CAHS Dance teacher said, “I am inspired by this amazing person. Addison is an exceptionally well-rounded student and outstanding performer. She goes above and beyond to achieve her goals and focuses on improving her technique and skill. She is self-driven and has an optimistic outlook on life.” Shane Almendarez, CAHS Orchestra Director, stated, “I have known Addison since she was in the seventh grade. She is a hard worker and a valuable member of the orchestra. She always comes to class ready to work and contribute. She is involved in many fine arts disciplines at Cumberland Academy and a great example of a leader.” Tim Schodowski, former CAHS principal says, “Addison exemplifies everything it means to be a Cumberland Academy Knight. She sets the example every day and in every way. Addison is the type of student who makes an impact both inside and outside of the classroom. We look forward to her accomplishing phenomenal things in her future.” Pam Eikner, the Cumberland Academy Director of Fine Arts remarked, “From the moment Addison Petty walked into my classroom for the first time five years ago, I knew she was a standout student. Striving for excellence every day in all things, she puts in the hard work to achieve it. With character above reproach, Addison’s humble spirit defines her success. Loved by her peers and teachers, she is a leader with a bright future, making a positive difference in this ever-changing world.”
Addison serves the Tyler community as a Rose City Ambassador. She assists with Azalea Trails, Texas Rose Festival, and numerous other volunteer events. Addison has danced from an early age. Through middle school Addison was a member of the Tyler Junior College Academy of Dance Pre-Professional program gaining a strong foundation in ballet and modern dance. In high school Addison spent a year in the Ballet Company at Artistic Dance Concepts. Addison is committed to dance and trains at the Candy Crocker School of Dance Elite program. She participates frequently in collegiate dance workshops and camps to continue developing as a dancer. Addison is currently working on a contemporary ballet solo she hopes to use for competitions as well as the CAHS Dance Showcase performance.
Passionate about life and learning, Addison is sure to bring a fresh outlook and perspective to everyone and everything she encounters. Demonstrating commitment and contributing to a full and energetic lifestyle, this extraordinary young lady’s service, scholarship, work ethic and exceptional evolving social and personal development are the key descriptive components that give Addison the edge to success. Going above and beyond, she is a bundle of inspiration that is hard to match. Look for Addison to accomplish big things in the future.
After she graduates in May of 2025, Addison plans to attend college and is looking forward to auditioning for a collegiate dance program. She plans to pursue a career in business. In her free time, Addison enjoys spending time with friends, attending sporting events, and relaxing at the beach.