Explore the Arts and
Express Yourself
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National PTA has a long-standing commitment to arts education. The Reflections program provides opportunities for recognition and access to the arts which boost student confidence and success in the arts and in life.
Each year, over 300,000 students in Pre-K through Grade 12 create original works of art in response to a student-selected theme. This 50+ year-old program helps them explore their own thoughts, feelings and ideas, develop artistic literacy, increase confidence and find a love for learning that will help them become more successful in school and in life.
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Categories and Divisions
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Students submit their completed works of art in one or all of the available arts categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, Visual Arts
GRADE DIVISIONS. Students may enter in the appropriate division for their grade (Primary: Pre-Kindergarten-Grade 2; Intermediate: Grades 3-5; Middle School: Grades 6-8; High School: Grades 9-12;
Accessible Arts: All grades welcome). The Accessible Arts division invites students who identify as having a disability and may receive services under IDEA or ADA: Section 504 to enter in the Accessible Arts Division or grade division most closely aligned to their support needs. The division offers non-artistic accommodations (e.g. adaptive technology; transcribing) for students to participate fully in PTA Reflections. Assistants must refrain from being involved in the artistic process (e.g. developing an artist statement, choreography, music lyrics, storyboards, etc.). Student recognition and awards are announced as part of the Accessible Arts Division.
Entries are due January 17, 2025
All entries must be submitted to Alabama PTA electronically (No exceptions)
Background:
Started in 1969 by the Colorado PTA President Mary Lou Anderson, Reflections has encouraged millions of students to express themselves by giving positive recognition for their artistic efforts. Students in preschool through grade 12 may create and submit works of art in six categories: dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and visual arts. Any PTA in good standing is eligible to sponsor Reflections on their campus.
Participate:
The Reflections program recognizes students at the Local, Council/Region, State and National PTA levels. At each level, all entries are judged on interpretation of the theme, creativity and artistic merit. Eligible students must attend a school with a PTA in good standing with Alabama PTA.
Students may enter any or all of the six art categories. Multiple entries within a single arts category is permitted. Each entry must be the original work of one student and created specifically for the Reflections program based on the national theme. Each entry must also conform to the guidelines developed by the National PTA.