Pettus Secondary School

     Music education has powerful and undeniable effects on student learning, achievement and lifelong success. Music represents the complexity and meaning of a culture, society and history. Learning music is a discipline that compels one to have a depth of understanding and offers an opportunity for advanced skill development. Research continues to illustrate the demonstrated effects of music education on student achievement. Early and sustained educational experiences in music deliver skills that can be effective predictors of long-term success in college, careers and citizenship. By entering into music education early, students can learn and develop a wide range of applicable life skills that will benefit them beyond music education and into higher education, the workplace, and beyond. 

     The Pettus ISD Band program is one of the shining stars of the district. It is not just about learning music, but a lifetime learning experience that benefits the whole child. Students learn a myriad of soft skills with focus on teamwork and responsibility. The dedication and commitment of the students is apparent with one glance at the trophy shelf. In the last 4 years, the Pettus band has been to UIL Area & State Marching contests and earned the coveted Sweepstakes award for superior ratings in matching, concert, and sight reading contests. Pettus bands have also been state finalists at the ATSSB Outstanding Performance Series competitions in 2024 & 2025. Students have many opportunities for both individual & team success through region auditions, solos, and ensembles. Students have been named to ATSSB All-Region and All-Area concert & jazz bands, and students have performed at the UIL State Solo & Ensemble contest.

     Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera or click this invite link for an invitation to our sportsYou group, our primary method of commuinication with parents about upcoming events.

     Clayton Capello, band director at Pettus ISD, is a proud graduate of Woodsboro High School, Del Mar College, and Texas A&M Corpus Christi, where he received his Bachelor's in Music Education. Known for his commitment to excellence and leadership in music education, Mr. Capello has led the Pettus band program to remarkable achievements, including an appearance at the prestigious UIL State Marching Band Competition and multiple appearances at the ATSSB State Outstanding Performance Series. During the 2023-2024 school year, he guided the band to its first Sweepstakes Award in 50 years, marking a significant milestone in the program’s history. Mr. Capello will also be presenting a clinic at the upcoming Texas Music Education Association convention in San Antonio titled “Making It Work When You’re the One." Mr. Capello's  passion for music and student development continues to inspire and elevate the band program at PISD. Born in New Orleans, LA, Mr. Capello grew up around jazz greats such as Winton Marsalis, Pete Fontaine, and Doreen Ketchens. He has performed with the Del Mar College Jazz Band, the Texas A&M Corpus Jazz Band, and as part of a masterclass with the Rebirth Brass Band of New Orleans.