Rules for Submission
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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.
Forms & Resources
2023-2024 Theme
- Printable Student Entry Form 2023-2024
- Downloadable Logos for "I am Hopeful Because"... 2023-2024
- Fillable Posters for "I am Hopeful Because..." 2023-2024
Reflections Program
Create an Original Work of Art
Students submit their new and original works of art in one or all of the available arts categories (only one submission per category per student):
Dance Choreography Film Production Literature
Music Composition Photography Visual Arts
Submit Your Entry
Students interested in participating in the Reflections program should begin by connecting with their local PTA and following all deadlines and instructions. The submission must include a completed Student Entry Form. It is suggested that students give their submissions a title that stands out. The required Artist Statement should describe how the piece relates to the student’s personal interpretation of the theme. The following guiding questions can be useful when developing a title and artist statement:
- How does your work relate to the theme?
- What is your personal connection to the theme?
- What/who was your inspiration?
Student winners from the local and council levels have the opportunity to move up to the state level.
Judging Criteria
Volunteer arts and education experts will review submissions without knowledge of the entrants’ identity. During the evaluation process, judges will consider the following criteria:
- Interpretation: How closely the piece relates to the theme, based on the work itself and the artist statement. Interpretation of the theme is the most important aspect to the judges.
- Creativity: How creative and original the piece is in its conception of the theme and its presentation.
- Technique: The level of skill demonstrated in the basic principles/techniques of the arts area.
First Place winners in each category and age division will move on the national level. National winners are announced on May 1st and celebrated at the National PTA Convention and Expo in June.
Arkansas State PTA Reflections Entry Deadline
All Reflections entries must be in the possession of Arkansas PTA Reflections by 9:00 PM Monday, January 15, 2024 by online submission.
Arkansas PTA looks forward to many creative entries from our students again this year!
Arkansas State PTA Reflections Chair