PTA Reflections

WHERE CREATIVITY COMES TO LIFE

At Justin Elementary PTA, we believe every child has a story worth telling, an image worth capturing, and a song worth singing. The PTA Reflections program gives every JES student the opportunity to explore their creativity, express their unique voice, and share their perspective with the world.

And the best part? There are no wrong answers.

🎨 WHAT IS PTA REFLECTIONS?

PTA Reflections is a national arts program that has inspired millions of students since 1969. Each year, students create original works of art based on a theme - and submit them for recognition at the school, district, state, and even national level!

This isn’t about being the "best" artist. It’s about self-expression, creative thinking, and finding your voice. Every submission is celebrated!

Dance

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Film Production

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Literature

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Music

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Photography

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Visual Arts

Dance · Film Production · Literature · Music · Photography · Visual Arts

🏆 HOW RECOGNITION WORKS

Every student who submits receives recognition for their participation. Outstanding entries advance through the following levels:

School Level → Judged at JES
Council Level → Judged by our local PTA council
State Level → Judged by Texas PTA
National Level → Judged by National PTA

Students can earn:

  • Awards of Excellence

  • Awards of Merit

  • Participant recognition

Every single submission is celebrated at JES… because creative courage deserves recognition!

📋 HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Participating is easier than you think! Here’s how:

Step 1: Choose Your Category
Pick the art form that excites you most - or try more than one! Choose from: Dance, Film, Music, Literature, Photography, Visual Arts, and an Accessible Arts category for students who identify as having a disability and may receive services under IDEA or ADA: Section 504.

Step 2: Explore the Theme
Think about what the theme means to YOU. There are no wrong interpretations!

Step 3: Create Your Work
Make something original that expresses your unique perspective. Have fun with it! (Note: the work must be the student’s own original creation.)

Step 4: Complete the Entry Form
Fill out the student entry form (available below or in the front office)

Step 5: Submit by the Deadline
Turn in your work to the front office by November 1, 2026.

That’s it! You’re a Reflections artist! 🎉

ENTRY FORMS & RESOURCES

STUDENT ENTRY FORM
ENGLISH | SPANISH

HOW TO CRAFT AN ENTRY

OFFICIAL RULES
ENGLISH ‍ ‍|‍ ‍SPANISH

Texas PTA Reflections Website

National PTA Reflections Website

TIPS FOR FAMILIES:

How to Support Your Young Artist:

🎨 Let them lead: This is their creation! Offer encouragement but let their vision guide the work.

💡 Explore the theme together: Ask open-ended questions:
"What does this theme make you think of? How does it make you feel?"

⏰ Give them time: Great art isn’t rushed! Start early and enjoy the creative process.

📚 Visit the library: Our local libraries can be a great place to find inspiration!

🌟 Celebrate the process: Win or lose, the courage to create and share is worth celebrating!

Remember: The goal isn’t perfection - it’s expression!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes! Students can submit one entry per category, meaning they could participate in all six categories if they choose!

  • The work must be the student's own original creation. Parents can offer encouragement and support, but the ideas and execution should come from the student.

  • Nope! Reflections is completely free to enter. 💙

  • Yes! The Reflections program includes a Accessible Arts Division that provides additional opportunities for students with disabilities to participate and be recognized.

  • Reflections celebrates ALL forms of creativity. Every student, every skill level. Writing, music, dance, film - there's something for everyone. Plus, every submission receives recognition!

  • Outstanding entries advance to council judging, then state, then national! We'll notify families if their student's work advances.