Speak Out Through the Arts and Be Heard

There are things that are not sayable. That’s why we have art.
~ Leonora Carrington, surrealist artist

Illinois PTA Reflections Program 2022-23 Results

The PTA Reflections program provides opportunities for recognition and access to the arts which boosts student confidence. Visual and performing arts naturally align with established Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) goals.

Each year, over 300,000 students in Pre-K through Grade 12 nationwide create original works of art in response to a student-selected theme. This 50+-year-old program helps them explore their own thoughts, feelings, and ideas, develop artistic literacy, increase confidence and find a love for learning that will help them become more successful in school and in life.

Students submit their completed works of art in one or more of the arts categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, and Visual Arts. They participate in their grade division: Primary (Pre-K – Grade 2), Intermediate (Grades 3-5), Middle School (Grades 6-8), High School (Grades 9-12), Special Artist (All grades welcome). Students who identify as having a disability and may receive services under IDEA or ADA: Section 504 may enter in the Special Artist Division or grade division most closely aligned to their functional abilities.

All children and families from across the state are invited to attend and participate in the activities at Spotlight, the Illinois PTA Cultural Arts Celebration, taking place at Millikin University in the Spring.

Visit our 2021-2022 Spotlight Gallery to see last year’s entries advanced to the National PTA level.

If you are a PTA REFLECTIONS CHAIR: please visit the Leadership Resources section of the Website for forms, resources, and additional details.

Need help starting a Reflections Program through your PTA?

Contact Reflections@illinoispta.org to get started.

Fun Art Extras

Reflections Activity Sheet
Reflections Activity Sheet (Spanish)
Reflections Coloring Book
Reflections Crossword Puzzle
Reflections Word Search