Reflections

Reflections is a PTA arts program that encourages students to explore their creativity through dance, film, literature, music, photography, and visual arts. Each year, students create original works inspired by a unique theme and have the opportunity to share their talents and ideas.

Watch the 2026-2027 Reflections Invitation Video

What does your culture mean to you?

Maybe it’s a family tradition. A favorite food. A song your grandparents love. A language, holiday, place, story, dance, or memory that makes you who you are.

Reflections is your chance to turn that idea into art!

And it doesn’t have to be complicated. Students can:

  • Take a quick photo

  • Plunk out a brand-new melody on an instrument

  • Create a short dance

  • Film a friend or family member

  • Write a poem or short story

  • Sculpt or build something

  • Draw or paint an amazing picture

Every student who participates gets a FREE Menchie’s frozen yogurt!

So encourage your child to give it a try—even a simple idea can become something wonderful.

Entries are due October 16!

What will your student create?

FAQs

  • The Reflections program invites students to share their voice through unique art forms. This is a rewarding opportunity for students to explore new talents, connect with their community, and gain confidence in their individual expressions.

    Every student (k-12) is invited to reflect on the year's theme (2026-2027: "What My Culture Means to Me") to plan their own project in 2D or 3D Art, Music Composition, Film Production, Literature, Photography, and/or Dance Choreography.

  • Participation is fun and easy!

    The projects can be as simple as snapping a photo on a phone or plunking out a unique melody on a favorite instrument, but each submission must be original to their creator (not using a kit, guide, or copyrighted material). 

    The deadline for this year is October 16th.

    All projects must be submitted online (https://www.utahpta.org/ref), but please review the criteria for the category you are entering. If a submission doesn't meet requirements, a Reflections specialist will reach out to help your student make any necessary adjustments to resubmit. 

    Enthusiastic students may enter several different categories, provided they submit only one piece per category each year (e.g., one dance, one painting, and one song).

  • Judges from another school use a rubric to evaluate entries based on their interpretation of the theme and the student's demonstration of skill.

    Top winners from each age category will receive medals and continue to the next level of the competition. After the school level, submissions will go through another round of judging at the council/district level, potentially advancing at the region, state, or even national levels.

  • ALL participants will be recognized at a school level with a participation award and will be given free Menchies frozen yogurt certificates. Their art will be shared with the school in a short collection video celebrating their creations.

2026 - 2027 Reflections Flyers

Click a flyer below to view full size.

Learn more about the Reflections Program

Visit the National PTA website for program details, rules, tips and inspiration.

For questions, reach out to your school Reflections Specialist: Cynthiaharmon@gmail.com 

We can’t wait to see what you create!