Reflections is a long-standing national PTA arts recognition program designed to encourage students’ creativity and appreciation of the arts. Students create pieces specifically related to the year’s theme. The works must be their own, and accompanied by a short “artist’s statement” explaining how their art relates to the theme.

Entries are accepted in six categories:

• Visual Arts
• Photography
• Literature
• Dance Choreography
• Film Production
• Musical Composition

and judged by grade level:

• Primary (K-2nd)
• Intermediate (3rd-5th)
• Junior (6th-8th)
• Senior (9th-12th)

The deadline for submissions at Lum is usually November 1st. Rules and entry forms can be found in the office soon after the school year begins, or online at PTA Reflections or the California PTA Reflections page.

All participants are recognized for their efforts. Winners from Lum advance to the Alameda Unified School District, then potentially to district/county, regional/state and finally national level. National award recipients are announced and notified in May, and displayed at the National PTA Convention. Please see the website for prize details, which can include cash awards and an expense-paid trip to the convention.

Next year’s theme (2012/13) is “The Magic of the Moment…”

Previous years topics include:

• “Diversity Means…” (2011/12)
• “Together We Can” (2010/11)
• “Beauty Is…” (2009/10)

Questions? Contact Blanche Kim or visit PTA Reflections.