2010–2011 Theme: “Together we can…”

Each year, the PTA Reflections Program challenges students to create art inspired by a specific theme. Themes are selected from hundreds of ideas submitted by students to the PTA Reflections Program Theme Search. Past themes have included "Exploring New Beginnings," "If I Could Give the World a Gift...," "A Different Kind of Hero," and most recently, “I Can Make a Difference by…” and “Wow!” The 2010–2011 theme is “Together we can…”

Students participate in the Reflections Program by submitting entries to a local PTA or PTSA. Nationally, the program has six arts areas—dance choreography, film production, literature, musical composition, photography, and visual arts—and four grade divisions—primary, intermediate, middle/junior, and senior.

How to Sponsor the Reflections Program
Any PTA/PTSA in good standing is eligible to sponsor a Reflections Program. Rules and deadlines differ from state to state; contact your state PTA for more information.

A Great Learning Experience
When children express themselves through words, pictures, music, dance, and other art forms, they grow intellectually and socially. They learn to analyze their thoughts, feelings, and ideas; learn to look at things, people, and experiences in a fresh and exciting way; and become more interested in the ideas and works of others.

The PTA Reflections Program is designed to enhance a quality arts education by providing an opportunity for students to explore their artistic talents and receive positive recognition for their efforts.

General Guidelines
Please note that

• Students may submit entries only through a PTA or PTSA in good standing.
• All entries submitted must be original works and must relate to the current year’s Reflections Program theme.
• Each entry must be the work of only one student. Assistance from teachers, parents, or friends is not permitted except in special cases (such as students with physical disabilities).

A Word to Parents
As with any student activity, parent involvement and support are very important. But parents must remember that student artists need to be responsible for their own work. Children must make their own decisions about what to create and what to enter in the Reflections Program. By producing their own literature, musical compositions, photographs, films, dance routines, and visual artwork, children learn about the arts and, more importantly, they learn about themselves. Students should simply do their best; crooked lines, incorrect musical notes, or misspelled words do not disqualify anyone.

PTA's Reflections Program helps parents encourage the creativity and continuous self-discovery process of their children. Supporting the Reflections Program is one way you can support the arts in your home, school, and community.