Since 1969, the National PTA Reflections Program has encouraged millions of students across the nation and in American schools overseas to explore their artist talents. The goal of the Reflections program is participation and appreciation for the arts.  Although the Reflections Program follows a "contest" format, winning should not be the emphasis.  Last year throughout California 65,000 students participated in Reflections. 

The Reflections Program is a great way for students to explore and learn about various art forms. Creating art is a valuable learning process that challenges students to use their critical thinking skills as well as their creative talents to create art that supports a specific theme.  Students may submit an entry in any of following six arts areas:  Literature, Musical composition, Photography, Visual Arts, Dance Choreography and Film/Video Production. Only original works of art are accepted. Depending on local PTA guidelines, students may enter more than one work of art.

Please remember 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 annual 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 for those with visual or physical disabilities)
• Participation encourages creativity and exploration. Students should do their best, but crooked lines, incorrect musical notes, or misspelled words do not disqualify anyone.

             
The timeframe of the Reflections Program is:

Future Reflections Theme Contest
The National PTA is looking for a theme for its next Reflections Program. A student's suggestions for the theme ideas may be sent to the California State PTA by the individual student or by a local PTA/PTSA. The submission deadline is November 1, 2011. The theme may include a wide variety of subjects that will appeal to students in preschool through grade 12. The winning student will receive $100 and recognition at the National PTA Convention held in June. http://www.capta.org/sections/programs/downloads/Reflections12-13ThemeSearch.pdf

New Rules this year for all Reflections entries given to the 32nd District

• Title Required
• Artist Statement Required
• Consent Form is Required If - a person’s recognizable image and/or voice is included in the original works of art
• Naming of and Labeling of Entries

Direct link to Reflections section on California PTA website
    www.capta.org/sections/programs/reflections.cfm

Reflections Ribbons, Certificates, Pins, Medallions, and Stickers from the California PTA Store
    www.captastore.com/reflections.php

Mary Lou Anderson Arts Enhancement Grant due Friday, October 14, 2011
    www.pta.org/artsgrants

For more information please contact 32ND District Reflections Chair, Carol Mascali at
(925) 352-7640 or cpmascali@aol.com