PTA Reflections is a nationally acclaimed student program to encourage artistic creativity. Students of all grades and abilities may participate and explore the arts based on the 2026-2027 theme:
What My Culture Means To Me!
Students may choose one or all of the available arts categories: dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and visual arts.
2026-2027 Reflections Contest
Each year, the National PTA Reflections program offers local, regional, state and national opportunities for young artists in PreK through Grade 12 to be recognized for their creativity.
Grade Divisions:
- Primary: Preschool – Grade 2
- Intermediate: Grades 3-5
- Middle School: Grades 6-8
- High School: Grades 9-12
- Special Artist: All grades welcome
Students should download the Program Rules to ensure their art meets the requirements for each art category. Each entry must be accompanied by a completed Student Entry Form (download HERE).
Review Criteria
- Interpretation: How closely the piece relates to the theme, based on the artwork itself and the artist statement.
- 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.
Submissions are considered for local, regional, state and national level awards and prizes. Learn more about state-level and national-level awards and events.
Reflections Program Timeline
Membership Requirement: State and National PTA rules require the participant
or a at least one member of their primary household be be a member of the PTA.
Memberships need to be purchased by Oct 31, 2026.
Student Entry Deadline at the Local level: All entries must be turned in to the art teacher in the Art Room, by Oct 21, 2026.
Reflections Reception: All students who participate will be honored for their achievements at the Preston PTA Reflections Reception on Nov 5, 2026 between 5:30 - 6:30pm in the multipurpose room at Preston Elementary.
Entries Advancing to the Council level: Participants who have entries advancing to the Allen ISD Council of PTAs level will be contacted with more information. Deadline for Council submission is Nov 15, 2026.
Further Advancements: Entries advancing from Council will go on to the Texas PTA level (submission due Jan 15, 2027) and those advancing from the Texas PTA will go on to the National PTA level. Participants reaching these levels will be contacted with more information.
Reflections Theme Search Contest
National PTA Theme Search Contest on Hiatus
There will be no Theme Search Contest during the 2026-2027 program cycle. During the hiatus, National PTA will develop an updated contest structure and process to improve overall efficiency and contest participation.
Past Reflections Program Themes, 1969-2025
Questions?? Contact us at artsineducation@prestonpta.org
