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Explore the arts and express yourself

Explore the arts and express yourself

This program is for students of all grades and their parents and caregivers.
The National PTA Reflections Program is a nationwide arts recognition and achievement program that encourages students to explore their creativity through the arts. Each year, students create original works inspired by a designated theme in one or more of the following categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, and Visual Arts.
 
The program provides elementary students with an opportunity to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through creative projects while developing confidence, imagination, and artistic skills. Entries are judged based on interpretation of the theme, creativity, and artistic technique. Outstanding works advance through local, regional, state, and national levels of competition.
 
The Reflections Program celebrates every child's unique voice and inspires a lifelong appreciation for the arts, making it an enriching experience for students of all abilities and artistic interests.
 
Students first submit their original artwork to their school PTA, where entries are recognized and judged. Selected entries advance through local PTA, council, and district judging before reaching the California State PTA. At the state level, artworks may receive Outstanding Interpretation, Award of Excellence, or Award of Merit honors. Outstanding Interpretation and Award of Excellence winners then advance to the National PTA Reflections competition.
 
What My Culture Means to Me

"What My Culture Means to Me"

2026-2027 Reflections Theme

Art Categories

  • Visual Arts
  • Dance Choreography
  • Literature
  • Film Production
  • Photography
  • Music Composition
 

Program Divisions

Primary: TK - 2nd
Intermediate: 3rd - 5th

See specific guidelines for each category HERE.

See entry and submission guidelines HERE.

 

Submission deadline: October 2026.

National winners announced May 2027. 

 

Questions and Submissions: 

Contact PTA Reflections chair Rashmi – reflections@ccpta.org