Reflection Entry is now CLOSED!

Reflection Entry is now CLOSED!

Reflections Arts Program

Purple poster for a children's arts and self-expression contest titled "I Belong!" with colorful puzzle piece graphics representing various arts like dance, music, painting, drawing, video, and puzzles. Includes details about the 2025-2026 call for entries by the PTA, with a call to learn more at PTA.org/Reflections.

Reflections Arts Program: “I Belong”2025-2026 Theme

The National PTA Reflections Program is a nationwide arts recognition initiative that encourages students to explore their creativity and express themselves through original works of art. Since 1969, the program has celebrated the importance of the arts in education and given students an opportunity to shine.

Each year, the program is centered around a specific theme, this year’s inspiring theme is “I Belong.”

How It Works:

All students at PTA sponsored schools are invited to participate by creating original works of art inspired by the annual theme. Submissions are judged in divisions based on grade level to ensure fair and age-appropriate recognition.

Students can submit entries in any of the following six categories:

  •  Visual Arts

  •  Photography

  •  Literature

  •  Film Production

  •  Dance Choreography

  •  Music Composition

What to Expect at Our School:

The Reflections Program runs during the first few weeks of school and is completed by the end of September. Here's what typically happens:

  • Kickoff: Promotion begins during the first week of school to give students plenty of time to get inspired and start creating.

  • Creative Recess Sessions: A few optional recess sessions are offered where students can work on their projects using provided materials.

  • School Showcase & Breakfast: We host a morning showcase where students’ artwork is displayed. A light breakfast is served, and students are recognized in front of their peers and families.

  • Awards: Participants receive ribbons, certificates, or awards during a morning assembly on the same day as the showcase.

  • Advancement: Selected projects are submitted to the district level for further judging.

  • Yearbook: Photos are taken for inclusion in the school yearbook.

Logo for the National PTA Reflections program, featuring a stylized profile of a girl's face with flowing hair in maroon and pink colors.

To make this event a success, we’re looking for dedicated volunteers.

Here’s what we’re hoping to offer with your support:

*Promoting the program at the start of the school year

*Organizing and supervising recess art sessions

*Coordinating the school showcase and breakfast

*Acquiring qualified judges for each art category

*Preparing and distributing awards

*Submitting selected entries to the district level

*Taking and sharing photos for the yearbook

The Reflections Program is a short-term commitment with a big impact. Let’s celebrate our students’ creativity together!

If you’re interested in helping with this rewarding program, we’d love to have you on the team.

Ready to participate?

Purple background poster with colorful puzzle pieces and text promoting arts exploration for children, with logos and call for entries for the 2025-2026 PTA Reflections program.

Important Details

Deadline for Entries: Monday, September 29th
Questions? reflections@viejopta.org

Participate easily online! Use our digital entry form to submit your artwork and entry details (no paper needed)

Promotional flyer for PTA Reflections art program featuring colorful artwork and text encouraging students to create art and be recognized, with categories like dance, music, film, literature, photography, and visual arts, along with information on awards, theme contest, and contact details.
Promotional poster for PTA Reflection Arts program, featuring images of students dancing, painting, and engaging in artistic activities, with information on categories, awards, and participation details.

FAQ

Who can enter? All Viejo students.


Can I enter more than one category? Yes; submit a separate entry form for each.


Do I need an artist statement? Yes, 10–100 words describing your work and how it relates to the theme.


Can adults help? Only with non-artistic tasks (e.g., typing, recording). The creative work must be the student’s.


How do I submit? Fill out the digital entry form and upload your artwork or, if necessary, print and drop it off in the front office.

Upcoming Reflections Workshops!

A colorful poster with a purple background advertising art projects and workshops. It features puzzle pieces with icons representing dance, music, painting, photography, writing, and video recording. The event is titled "I Belong! Explore the arts and express yourself!" and calls for entries for the 2025-2026 National PTA Reflections. Parent volunteers will help with entry forms, supplies, and student projects. Two workshops are scheduled for September 9 and September 16.
Purple background with colorful puzzle pieces and icons representing arts, music, painting, photography, dance, drawing, and video production. Text in Spanish encouraging participation in art exploration and expression for students, with dates for two clinics on September 9 and September 16.