PTA Reflections: Within Reach

PTA Reflections is a national program that sparks students’ imagination, curiosity and participation in the arts! Each PTA partners with their school and community to offer activities, events and awards for families to enjoy. Check out these fun ideas on how to bring Reflections to your community—in school and at home.

Reflections at School

Reflections will empower students to take charge of their own learning and make personal connections across their community. Share these ideas with teachers and school leaders to help increase student engagement and deepen learning.

TIP 1: Introduce Reflections at a faculty meeting early in the school year to offer ideas on how the annual theme can align with school and classroom goals.

TIP 2: Connect with student leaders and club sponsors who may be able to offer support to interested students before/after school or during school lunch/recess times.

Offer a Reflections Club. Host a series of after-school workshops for students to explore each arts category. Allow teachers, teaching-artists and community artists to inspire students and lend their expertise in guiding creative ideas and supporting technical skills. Coordinate with your visiting instructors ahead of time to align their activity with this year’s annual theme. Choose a time that doesn’t conflict with curricular and extra-curricular activities and provide supplies for students. Reflections activities can also be hosted by school and community partners (e.g. libraries, scout troops, YMCAs, BGCs, etc.)

Invite the Whole Family to Your Meeting. Dedicate space and provide supplies for students to have fun. Ask student leaders to share their artistic talents and inspire students to use supplies to create their own original works. Provide time at the end of your meeting for students to share their interpretations on the theme. If any works are still in progress, ask students to share their ideas/plans. Don’t forget to send everyone home with an entry form and an invitation to your Reflections celebration!

Host a Family Art Night. Welcome families to explore Reflections, together! Invite teachers, teaching artists and community artists to help you lead art-making activities based on the annual theme. Start small by offering one or two activities (e.g. Visual Arts; Literature). Or, go big by offering all six activities (e.g. Dance Choreography; Film Production; Literature; Music Composition; Photography; Visual Arts). Start the evening by announcing the theme and introducing your station leaders. End the evening by announcing your submission deadline, passing out entry forms and collecting any finished works.

Set Up a Back-to-School Reflections Table. Make sure everyone knows about Reflections when they come back to school! Inspire participation by showcasing past winning works in highly visible locations. Also, dedicate space for distributing materials and collecting entries. Consider displaying a virtual gallery or hosting student performances to draw greater attention to your Reflections station and assign a student leader or parent volunteer to help answer any questions on how to participate.

Reflections at Home 

Share these ideas with parents/guardians to help students find inspiration at home and around their community. Creative sparks can happen anywhere and sometimes all it takes is a little space and time to stretch the imagination and start the arts.

TIP: Dedicate a safe place in your home/community where students can feel welcomed to express their thoughts, feelings and emotions.

Discover Cultural Heritage through Folk and Traditional Arts. The Folk and Traditional Arts remind us of who we are and what we believe as a family or community. They are deeply rooted in history, tradition and culture, allowing us to explore our heritage, language, religion, occupation and geographic region. Discuss your traditions and have a conversation about the types of music, dance, crafts and/or oral expression your family have created and enjoyed across generations.

Lead a Family Arts Club. Whether it’s a structured like a book club or just a discussion around the dinner table, start a conversation about the annual Reflections theme. Yes—that means fun for the adults too! Give your family members an assignment to explore what the theme means to them. Feeling ambitious? Explore an arts category each week leading up to your local entry deadline.

Host a Party for Kids. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a simple get-together, ask your child to invite their peers to join them for an “art party.” Throughout the party, offer activities. Allow kids to share their art with each other and send them home with a treat bag. When the party ends, ask parents to complete their child’s entry form and ensure works are submitted on time.

Take a Family Field Trip. Bring the Reflections theme with you on your next family escapade! Consider places that help kids explore their world, including museums, history centers, art galleries, performance venues, libraries, cultural centers and religious institutions. You can also bring the theme with you to sporting events, playgrounds, parks and even the grocery store. Wherever you go, it’s important to help your family make connections among what they’ve learned or experienced and to the theme.

For more ideas and to access your free digital kit, visit PTA.org/Reflections!

Ethan Clark is the Manager of Education and Arts Initiatives at National PTA. 

“The World Would Be a Better Place If …”: National PTA and ED Honor Student Artists

This blog post was originally published on U.S. Department of Education’s Homeroom blog.

On the inside of high-schooler Maria Quiles’ right wrist is the neatly crafted tattoo of a treble clef, surrounded by notes. Having epilepsy, she relies on the tattoo, coupled with her musical passion, for courage during seizures.

Maria was at the Washington, D.C., headquarters of the U.S. Department of Education (ED) in January to be honored for her musical composition, which won an award in the 2014–15 National PTA Reflections competition celebrating arts learning in schools across the country. Each year hundreds of thousands of entrants from preschool through grade 12 reflect on a common theme to create original art in six mediums — dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and visual arts. Maria’s composition responded to this year’s theme, “The World Would Be a Better Place If … ‘’

ED hosted the National PTA awards ceremony for the ninth year, which this year drew 35 honorees from 21 states and 200 other attendees — families, teachers and school leaders, National PTA staff, National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and other arts leaders, and ED staff. The ceremony ended with a signature ribbon-cutting to officially open the exhibit of Reflections visual arts and literature winners, on display through the end of February.

Maria, from Oviedo, Fla., was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 13; she has endured bullying, depression, and thoughts of suicide. The world would be a better place, she believes, if compassion trumped hurtful nicknames. Through the years, Maria has turned her despair into songs of hope. When a seizure is imminent, she and her mother together grasp Maria’s tattooed wrist and sing or hum her winning composition, which concludes, “Everything will be ok. . . . No matter what’s in my way, I’ll just stay, I’ll Just Stay.” Soon the seizure subsides.

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Maria Quiles and her mother at the opening ceremony to honor Maria and 205 other winners of the 2014–15 National PTA Reflections competition.

Ted Mitchell, ED’s under secretary of education, spoke of “the transformational power of art,” as reflected in Maria’s story:

“Art has a particular ability to raise the volume on the possible, to give us images
and sounds, pictures, words that help describe a world that might not exist yet, but
can, and more importantly, ought to. … Art enables us to create an experience
before we can explain it, and it’s that movement from the experience to the explanation, to the development of work that … is our life’s journey.”

Beyond discovery, educators lauded many other merits of art in education. Jane Chu, NEA chairwoman, cited research indicating that arts-infused schools correlate with improved social skills, higher grades and test scores, better attendance, lower dropout rates, and increased college enrollment. These outcomes are particularly pronounced for low-income students.

Laura Bay, the National PTA president, named additional benefits. Artists learn to create, problem-solve, persevere, and communicate. Art can be woven throughout all academic areas, including science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), to clarify, illuminate, stimulate the imagination, and develop innovations.
Honorees interpreted this year’s competition theme in myriad ways. For example, “The World Would Be a Better Place If … ”

“… [P]eople came together and focused on their similarities, not their differences. The joy of music creates a common bond that brings people together, even people who do not know one another. …If more people focused on the joyous parts of life, like music, the world would have less hatred and would be a better place.” — Kyle Gatesman, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology [Virginia] student, who composed and performed “The Joy of Music” on his keyboard.

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Kyle Gatesman performs his original composition for keyboard, “The Joy of Music.”

“… [W]e all set down our cell phones and got to know each other face-to-face.” —Hanna La Londe, Shawnee Mission West [Kansas] High School student, who choreographed and performed the dance “Losing Touch” to the music of Prince Ea.

Hanna La Londe performs the award-winning dance she choreographed, “Losing Touch.”

Hanna La Londe performs the award-winning dance she choreographed, “Losing Touch.”

“… I could march through life with my brother.” —10-year-old Jarom Garner [Briarwood, Wash.], who, accompanied by his 12-year-old sibling, Adam, performed a cello duet of Jarom’s prize-winning composition, “The Brothers’ March.”

 

 

Jarom Garner, left, and his sibling Adam perform Jarom’s winning musical composition for cello, “The Brothers’ March.”

Jarom Garner, left, and his sibling Adam perform Jarom’s winning musical composition for cello, “The Brothers’ March.”

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Honorees cut the ribbon at the opening of the Reflections art exhibit featuring some 60 pieces of visual art and a collection of literature.


Nancy Paulu is an editor and writer in the Office of Communications and Outreach at the U.S. Department of Education.

All photos are by U.S. Department of Education photographer Joshua Hoover. More photos from the event may be viewed at https://www.flickr.com/photos/departmentofed/albums/72157663336481071

The Department’s
 Student Art Exhibit Program provides students and teachers an opportunity to display creative work from the classroom in a highly public space that honors their work as an effective path to learning and knowledge for all. To visit the exhibits or for information about exhibiting, contact Jackye Zimmermann at jacquelyn.zimmermann@ed.gov.

A Great Learning Experience

Reflections Student Art by Vy Nguyen (Grade 5)

Reflections Student Art by Vy Nguyen (Grade 5)

Creating art is a valuable learning process. Artistic exploration and expression enhance and develop intellectual, social and physical skills.

When children express themselves through words, pictures, music, photography and other art forms, they grow intellectually. The National PTA Reflections program helps parents encourage and recognize the continuous self-discovery process of their children.

With art, children learn to analyze their thoughts, feelings and ideas; look at objects, people and experiences in a fresh and exciting way; and develop curiosity for the ideas and works of others.

There are four skills students demonstrate and enhance through their artwork in the Reflections program:

  1. Critical Thinking—Students draw upon many skills and explore the creative process while reflecting on the annual Reflections’ theme. Oftentimes, students solve problems to real-world global issues or identify opportunities and strategies that really work.
  2. Communication—Students hone their writing and communication skills by articulating their thoughts and ideas in an artist statement that is shared with their peers and the greater school community. Reflections will give students a voice (using art) to inform, persuade, motivate and inspire others.
  3. Collaboration—Families and classrooms have fun discussing the annual theme and exploring new art-making techniques. A student choreographer or film director will cultivate leadership skills while working with their peers, and a Reflections Art Night will offer time and space for the whole family. Student leadership and ownership are key for a successful Reflections submission.
  4. Creativity—Students find themselves at the epicenter of their imagination. Reflections artwork is a product of mastering the creative process. Students must brainstorm multiple ideas and even combinations of them by elaborating, refining, analyzing and evaluating. The process allows students to think outside the box and create a tangible, useful work of art that inspires others to be engaged in their own learning.

It’s programs like PTA Reflections that allow students to cultivate and curate creative skills that give them an academic advantage.

Students who participate in arts programs like Reflections show the greatest relative improvement in academic achievement, especially for those in underserved communities. Arts education has the ability to level the playing field because it provides a safe learning environment where students take risks, explore ideas and express their individuality. Students also learn to support their peers in a positive way by breaking down communication barriersprobably because the arts are a universal language (ArtsEdSearch.org).

Reflections is designed to enhance arts education. It provides opportunities for students to express themselves and to receive positive recognition for their artistic efforts. Family members, school personnel and the community all play a critical role in fostering a positive learning environment for children. Supporting a Reflections program in your community is one way adults can help maintain that environment.

I encourage you to support student learning through the arts so that today’s Reflections artists can find their voice and continue to explore their world in creative ways.

Learn more and get started at PTA.org/Reflections.


Ethan Clark is the Manager of Education and Arts Initiatives at National PTA.

Encourage Creativity During #ArtsEdWeek

ArtsEdWeekThis September 14-18, PTAs and schools nationwide encourage creativity during National Arts in Education Week to raise awareness of the value the arts bring to a high-quality, comprehensive education.

The weeklong initiative is designed to celebrate the arts, spotlight the importance of arts education and encourage participation in arts programs and activities like PTA Reflections.

The timing of the week honors National Arts in Education Week as designated by the U.S. House of Representatives, but also serves as the official kickoff celebration for the 2015-2016 National PTA Reflections program.

Each day of the Sept. 14-18 school week, PTAs across the country and in U.S. schools overseas will celebrate arts education by hosting school-wide arts activities based on the 2015-2016 PTA Reflections program theme, Let Your Imagination Fly.

PTA Reflections encourages students to create original artwork that reflects their interpretation on the annual theme and acquire many educational and life-long benefits.

You can introduce the theme at school or at home by starting a conversation. Try these questions to help students explore their world as it relates to the theme.

  • What would happen if you let your imagination fly?
  • Where does your imagination take you?
  • How/when do you use your imagination?
  • Why is your imagination important to you?

Give students time and space to reflect on the theme and offer arts supplies and materials for them to explore the following PTA Reflections categories each day during National Arts in Education Week. Consider the following ideas to encourage creativity:

Monday – Dance Choreography: Choose a time during the school day and invite everyone to dance together. Choose a story based on the theme that is read aloud or song based on the theme and have students create movements to phrases that communicate the theme.

Tuesday – Film Production: Have students create a storyboard/comic based on their interpretation of the theme. Set up a place where students can rehearse and record their skits.

Wednesday – Literature: Students may write a poem/short story related to the theme. Consider inviting a guest author to talk about how they use their imagination.

Thursday – Music Composition: Host time and space for students to participate in a music making activity using instruments or found objects. Provide studio time where students explore sounds/instruments and record their compositions.

Friday – Photography & Visual Arts: Encourage students to take photos of their peers using their imagination to be more creative in class and at home. Have students post their photos on a designated wall that promotes the Reflections theme.

Throughout #ArtsEdWeek, share photos and videos of your #PTAReflections program encouraging creativity in your school. For inspiration, share this video and visit the online art exhibit featuring student interpretations on past years’ themes.

After National Arts in Education Week is over, the fun continues! Family and peer encouragement is key to a student’s success in school and in life and this is what PTA Reflections is all about.

To get involved, join your PTA and visit PTA.org/Reflections to get started! And for more info on National Arts in Education Week, visit PTA.org/ArtsEdWeek.

Reflections: A Gallery of 2014-2015 Student Art

Since 1969, the PTA Reflections program has encouraged students across the nation and in American schools overseas to explore their creativity. Each year, students in preschool through high school are invited to create and submit works of art in the areas of dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and the visual arts. In the 2014-2015 school year, Reflections students shared their artistic interpretations on the theme “The World Would Be a Better Place If…

National PTA Reflections submissions are reviewed by experts in the visual, literary and performing arts. Judges look for personal interpretation on the program theme that best exemplify creativity and technical skill. We are proud to share with you this year’s award winning works of art and invite you to join us at future exhibitions.


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Dance Choreography

Outstanding Interpretation in Dance Choreography –
“The World Would Be a Better Place If everyone Was True to Themselves” by Madison Duellman

When [my friends and I] heard the song “Try” by Colbie Caillat, I was inspired to create a dance about being yourself and not trying to be something you are not. We all feel that if we could dress, look, and be ourselves, we would be happier and if everyone did that, the world would be a better place.” – Madison Duellman

View all of the national award winning dance choreography submissions.


 

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Film Production

Outstanding Interpretation in Film Production –
“Masks” by Jacqueline Fashimpaur

I always noticed that people act differently around others then they do in private. Even Ida Shel Silverstein wrote a poem comparing this phenomenon to wearing masks, and I thought it was a great metaphor. This film shows how “wearing a mask” can lead people to be isolated and lonely. I think that if people felt free to be themselves, there would be more friendship and understanding between people, and the world would be a better place. Hopefully this film inspires some change in that direction.” – Jacqueline Fashimpaur

View all national award winning film production submissions.


 

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Literature

Outstanding Interpretation in Literature –
“The World Would Be a Better Place…” by Sarah Murphy

Poem“The world would be better if hatred, jealousy, war, and disease were eliminated. Focusing on the negative makes life harder. The world has flaws and sadness but we must also see the good to appreciate what we have. I used alliteration in the beginning to show anger and agitation when talking about the “bad” things. The second part has no alliteration to convey accepting the good with the bad. The spacing emphasizes the meaning. The “negatives” are on the left side, the contrasting feelings are on the right. The conclusion is in the middle to combine the two.” – Sarah Murphy

View all national award winning literature submissions.

 

 

 

 


 

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Music Composition

Outstanding Interpretation in Music Composition –
“It’d Be Better” by Fritz Hager

This song [It’d be Better] focuses on the greed that is in the world. My song states that the world would be a better place if we all gave more than we received, and showed love through our giving.” – Fritz Hager

Check out all national award winning music composition submissions. Video coming soon!


 

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Photography

Outstanding Interpretation in Photography –
“Determination” by Cesily Covey

My artwork illustrates my belief that everyone should receive an equal opportunity and equal exposure to the culture around us. Regardless of where we come from, we all come from one planet and that everyone deserves equal access to education and global culture so we can all unite not under the name of a country, but under Earth.” – Cesily Covey

View all national award winning photography submissions.


 

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Visual Arts

Outstanding Interpretation in Visual Arts –
“Unity” by Catherine Park

My artwork illustrates my belief that everyone should receive an equal opportunity and equal exposure to the culture around us. Regardless of where we come from, we all come from one planet and that everyone deserves equal access to education and global culture so we can all unite not under the name of a country, but under Earth.” – Catherine Park

View all national award winning visual arts submissions.


 

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Special Artist

Outstanding Interpretation in Special Artist Division –
“Everything Will be Ok I’ll Just Stay” by Maria Quiles

Giving someone a hurtful nickname, making fun of their medical conditions, claiming you’re their true friends and during all this feeling like not even family cares. Having it lead you fell as well, there is no other choice, suicide is the only possible answer for all this to just end. To ignore these problems, bullies, and this non-stop hurtful pain deep inside. Well no, it’s not. Believe in yourself instead! To continue staying strong, ignore those bullies, those that have no idea what they are even talking about or what your’re truly going through. Tell yourself ‘Everything Will Be OK’.” – Maria Quiles

Learn more about the Special Artist Division for students with disability.

The Art of Supporting Student Success

with co-author Sherri Wilson

Art_EducationA picture is worth a thousand words! Next time you visit your school, take out your phone and take a picture of something around you that shows evidence of student success.

Look at your picture. What elements of the picture lead you to believe that student success is happening in your building? Do you see examples of high quality student work? Do you see evidence that learning standards are met?

The PTA National Standards for Family School Partnerships were developed to empower PTA leaders, parents, educators, community members and students to work together for the educational success of all children. The third of the six standards is Supporting Student Success. Families and school staff should continuously collaborate to support students’ learning and healthy development both at home and at school, and have regular opportunities to strengthen their knowledge and skills to do so effectively.

Arts programs allow for families and school staff to collaborate in ways that prepare students for the next America. The Arts Education Partnership states that, “America’s global stature, culture of innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit depend on the strength of a world-class education system. Perhaps now more than ever—as the country becomes increasingly diverse, the world more interconnected, and the workplace more oriented around technology and creativity—arts education is key to such a system and to ensuring students’ success in school, work, and life.”

Consider the following resources to support students in school, in work and in life:

  • Explore the new National Arts Standards.
  • Host a Creative Career Fair to match student’s interests in the arts with today’s Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math workforce.
  • Apply for a Mary Lou Anderson Grant to support art projects for the whole school community.

The Arts — and the National PTA Reflections® program, in particular — can be a valuable tool for building stronger partnerships in your school community and meeting the Standard for Supporting Student Success.

Read more to learn about each of the National Standards for Family-School Partnerships and the steps you can take with PTA Reflections to meet them. Also, consider enrolling in the National PTA School of Excellence program to gain new ways to engage all families in each of the standards. National PTA School of Excellence is a recognition program that supports and celebrates partnerships between PTAs and schools to enrich the educational experience and overall well-being for all students. Contact excellence@pta.org or call (800)307-4782 for more info.

Now that we’ve learned about the basic elements of supporting student success, take another look at your picture and write an artist statement to accompany your photo. Share your photo with us on twitter (@ClarkEthan & @PTAswilson)!

Third in a series of blog posts co-authored by National PTA’s Senior Manager of Family Engagement Sherri Wilson & Manager of Arts in Education Ethan Clark.

 

The Art of Welcoming All Families

Family School PartnershipsIf you were to paint a picture representing how you felt the first time you entered your child’s school building, what would it look like? Go ahead, take a minute to draw a picture of the feelings you had when you entered the building. We’re serious, go ahead and grab a crayon or marker from your kids’ excessive crayon collection or a trusty pen from that catch-all kitchen drawer.

  • Consider using colors that represent how you felt as you approached the front door. Include people you interacted with and when you’re done, write one sentence describing what your picture represents.
  • Take a photo and upload it to you favorite social media site like Twitter, Facebook or Instragram and use the hashtag #StartTheArts.

The National Standards for Family-School Partnerships provide a framework for strengthening family engagement programs to focus on what parents, schools and communities can do together to support student success. Welcoming All Families into the school community is the first of the six standards.

When schools are successful in meeting this standard, families are active participants in the life of the school, and feel welcomed, valued and connected to each other, to school staff, and to what students are learning and doing in class. When families walk into the school building, they should feel it’s a place where they belong. Also, all of the school policies and programs should reflect, respect and value the diversity of the families in the community.

The arts — and the National PTA Reflections program, in particular — can be a valuable tool for building stronger partnerships in your school community and meeting the Standard for Welcoming All Families.

#StartTheArts with PTA Reflections and bring families together during National Arts in Education Week — the second full week in September. Learn more about PTA Start the Arts Week and use the Reflections Toolkit to get started today.

Read more to learn about each of the National Standards for Family-School Partnerships and the steps you can take with PTA Reflections to meet them. Also, consider enrolling in the National PTA School of Excellence program to gain new ways to engage all families in each of the standards. National PTA School of Excellence is a recognition program that supports and celebrates partnerships between PTAs and schools to enrich the educational experience and overall well-being for all students. Contact excellence@pta.org or call (800)307-4782 for more info.


First in a series of blog posts co-authored by National PTA’s Senior Manager of Family Engagement Sherri Wilson & Manager of Arts in Education Ethan Clark.

Reflections: A Gallery of 2013-2014 Student Art

Since 1969, the PTA Reflections program has encouraged students across the nation and in American schools overseas to explore their creativity. Each year, students in preschool through high school are invited to create and submit works of art in the areas of dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and the visual arts. In the 2013-2014 school year, Reflections students shared their artistic interpretations on the theme “Believe, Dream, Inspire.”

National PTA Reflections submissions are reviewed by experts in the visual, literary and performing arts. Judges look for personal interpretation on the program theme that best exemplify creativity and technical skill. We are proud to share with you this year’s award winning works of art and invite you to join us at future exhibitions.

Reflections Icon_Dance

Dance Choreography

Outstanding Interpretation in Dance Choreography –
“One World” by Ella Carter-Klauschie

“The words Believe, Dream, and Inspire make me think of Peace on Earth. I Believe that it can happen. I Dream that people can make a difference. I’m Inspired by dances from other cultures. Dance can bring people together. This dance represents Brazil, Senegal, India and the U.S. as separate cultures to cherish. We come together to respect each other’s cultures, and learn new things. Learning about one another helps us find our similarities, and celebrate our differences. This piece includes Contemporary, West African,Samba-Reggae, Bollywood, Bhangra, and Hip-Hop dance. I shaped the traditional styles to show connection.” – Ella Carter-Klauschie

View all national award winning dance choreography submissions.

 

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Film Production

Outstanding Interpretation in Film Production –
“Dream Walking” by Eric Gillespie

“The film I created is about my Dad. My dad still dreams of running marathons. My dad inspires me very much. My dad believes in things that he didn’t think he could do before. When we believe in our dreams we can do the difficult things that are inspiring.” – Eric Gillespie

View all national award winning film production submissions.

 

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Literature

Outstanding Interpretation in Literature –
The Girl Who Called the Moon” by Biz Rasich

Literature_Award

“My piece was an experiment. I used a new style and a new voice, challenging myself to let my muse direct me instead of vice versa. The idea of Delia really spoke to me–her indignation at having been left behind, her hope that the moon would bring her father back, all of her spitfire, four-year-old naivety–resulting in the story essentially writing itself. Such moments of clarity are rare for me. That’s the struggle of writing, I suppose: inspiration comes at the most unexpected times and with such unexpected ferocity.” – Biz Rasich

View all national award winning literature submissions.

 

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Music Composition

Outstanding Interpretation in Music Composition –
“Live Your Dreams” by Joseph Codispoti

“This piece is about people who are afraid to take chances and live their dreams. This work expresses the struggle and frustration that comes with doubting yourself, but shows the benefits of chasing your dreams in the end.” – Joseph Codispoti

Listen to all national award winning music composition submissions.

 

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Photography

Outstanding Interpretation in Photography –
“Ink Mirage” by Hannah Shoultz

Hannah Shoultz OIA Photograph_2

“In this photo, a self-portrait, the pages of a book form an almost mask-like covering over my face to mirror the idea that inspiration covers, it reaches all depths of the mind and urges you on to greater heights. The pages are translucent, lending a dream-like quality to the photo and illustrating the idea that inspiration lends itself to dreaming: imagining new worlds, new experiences, and new lives. When one finds themselves in a place where they are truly inspired and able to dream, they can then finally begin to believe, and with that, a belief in themselves.” – Hannah Shoultz

View all national award winning photography submissions.

 

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Visual Arts

Outstanding Interpretation in Visual Arts –
“Dream and Inspiration” by Daniel Chang

 Daniel Chang OIA VisArtwork

“The title of my artwork is “Dream and Inspiration.” I dream about being a great scientist. I can create the future and change the world better. Thomas Edison inspires me the most. “Genius is one percent inspiration ninety-nine percent perspiration.” – Daniel Chang

View all national award winning photography submissions.

 

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Special Artist

Outstanding Interpretation in Special Artist Division –
“Imagine” by Jessica Clay

“I choreographed my dance to the song “Imagine,” because the song is about having no lines and the world living as one. This is an integrated dance which brings people with and without disabilities together. I believe everyone should be equal. I hope my dance can educate and open people’s minds. Also, I hope to inspire some social change and make a difference in this world.” – Jessica Clay

Learn more about the Special Artist Division for students with disability.

 

Upcoming Exhibitions: Reflections at the U.S. Department of Education

Join us Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at 11:00am for the annual Reflections Exhibit Opening & Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at the U.S. Department of Education, adjacent to the National Mall in Washington, DC. Exhibit will feature national award winning works of art in film production, dance choreography, literature, music composition, photography and visual arts from the 2013-2014 school-year theme: Believe, Dream, Inspire. To RSVP, email reflections@pta.org.

The public exhibit is open Monday-Friday, except federal holidays, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., January 6 – February 25, and is located in the LBJ Education Building, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20202. To schedule a visit, contact Nicole Carinci, Management & Program Analyst at the U.S. Dept. of Education, at nicole.carinci@ed.gov or call (202)453-5585.

The Reflections Believe, Dream, Inspire exhibit will also be featured at the National PTA Convention June 26-27 in Charlotte, NC. Save the date!

Please email reflections@pta.org for questions regarding Reflections student art exhibits.

 

Reflections Celebrates Month of the Asian American Child

In May, National PTA’s Every Child in Focus campaign celebrates the arts and culture of Asian American/Pacific Islanders. Educators, families and PTAs are encouraged to deepen family engagement using the PTA National Standards for Family-School Partnerships and provided resources.

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Student Artist Narhee Kim “Epiphany”

Explore additional arts and cultural resources for Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month provided by The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

To help paint the picture of family engagement, The National PTA Reflections award recipient Jordan Whitmer shares his original film titled “Forever Family” based on the 2013-2014 program theme: Believe, Dream, Inspire.

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Jordan Whitmer and family

“Approximately ten years ago, in a snow-covered village in mainland China, a baby girl was born. Sadly, her parents were not able to keep her. Left in a basket in a very public place, this girl was found, and brought to an orphanage.  One year later, this baby girl met her forever family. She will always be my sister.” – Jordan Whitmer

Watch Jordan’s award winning film production Forever Family.”

“We are passionate about family.  As parents, we pour into our kids every day, knowing that we only have a few short years to invest in their lives before they become adults.  We are intentional about experiences that provide our kids with a chance to learn about a big world.  As a family, we enjoy serving others in our local public schools, on a missions trip, or at our local food pantry.

We are so grateful for the partnership we have with our local public schools when it comes to the arts.  Through band, choir, and PTA Reflections, our kids have had some amazing opportunities to learn and grow as young musicians and production artists.  We have found this to be a great way to make a difference in the lives of others!” –Rick and Lisa Whitmer, parents of Jordan, Blake and Jenna Whitmer.

Interested in providing PTA Reflections in your school community? Visit PTA.org/Reflections to get started.

Email Reflections@pta.org to tell us your Reflections story.

Reflections: A Gallery of 2012-2013 Student Art

Since 1969, the PTA Reflections program has encouraged students across the nation and in American schools overseas to explore their artistic talents. Each year, students in preschool through high school are invited to create and submit works of art in the areas of dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and the visual arts.

In the 2012-2013 school year, Reflections students shared their artistic interpretations on the theme “The Magic of a Moment.” We received a wide variety of deeply felt and beautifully executed original works of art that express the importance of family, the simplicity of nature and the buoyant feelings of hope, adventure and achievement as seen through the eyes of a child. We are proud to share with you this year’s Outstanding Interpretations in each art category, the top honor Reflections bestows upon our young artists.

Dance Choreography

Outstanding Interpretation
in Dance Choreography

Student Artist: Demiana Remick
“The Power of Just One Moment” 

 

 

Demiana_Reflections_Dance
Demiana Remick: This song has personal meaning to me because my life as a dancer consists of moment after moment of making choices that can create magic or possible havoc. For example, selecting a certain dance prospect can create opportunity or cause injury; and I have experienced both. Dance is “all I live for, the air I breath,” as the song says, “I keep on shuffling on and on” from one moment to the next trying to create the magic and avoid the turmoil.

 

Film Production

Outstanding Interpretation
in Film Production

Student Artist: John General
“Painted Love”

 

 

John_Gen2

John General: A broken hearted graffiti artist is shocked to find his art work come to life and tell the story behind his broken love life.  After hard work and overcoming the obstacles in his way during a failing romance, the artist finds the true magic in a moment when he finds the sensation and happiness in fulfilling his heat’s desire.  His swelling heart basks in the magic of the moment when his heart is put back together.

 

Literature

 There was nothing so peculiar about New York City on a bone-chilling, winter morning. Like a set of ringing alarms, New York City was set adrift ubiquitously at the exactly prescribed time. The enthusiastic street sellers were seducing the passing crowed with flashy merchandise and then some, while the bustling street were rowdy with impatient businessmen and women, curious, quick-paced tourists, and avid shoppers who were all anxious to arrive at their destinations, whether it was the next grand sale at the nearest mall, the majestic Empire State Building, or the desolate offices and cubicles that English its prisoners in fatigue and boredom.         Read more…
Outstanding Interpretation
in Literature

Student Artist: Jenny Pham
“A Cup of Hope”

 

 

Jenny Pham headshotJenny Pham: Losing hope, an orphan embarks on a journey to a new life and meets a woman who teaches him that there is always a silver lining in a thundercloud. The theme, “Magic of a Moment,” is proven through the forever changed lives of the boy and woman because of their selfless actions. This story was inspired by events in my home country, Vietnam, and Howard Kelly’s milk story. I truly hope that this story inspires others to do kind deeds without ever expecting a reward because I know that the best things in life are never given – they are earned. 

 

Music Composition

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Outstanding Interpretation
in Music Composition

Student Artist: Savannah Du
“Daybreak Over A Pond”

 

 

Savannah Du PianoSavannah Du: Sometimes, I get up early in the morning and wait for the sun to rise. Most days, the sky is cloudy grey, the water still and unclear, the sun hidden from view, and I walk home cold and disappointed. But once in a while, the sky is deep maroon, the water hits the shore in ripples, and ducks dance across the surface of the pond. And when the first light of the sun rests upon my face, there are no sounds to describe the warmth of the magical moment of sunrise.

 

Photography

Tatum Long Artwork
Outstanding Interpretation
in Photography

Student Artist: Tatum Long
“Skiing in Style”

 

 

Tatum Long Headshot

Tatum Long: This past year, I learned to both snow ski and water ski.  I was thinking it feels magical the moment you learn how to do something difficult for the very first time.  I wanted to show myself snow skiing but I couldn’t figure out how to take a picture of myself while I was ‘actually’ skiing.  That’s when I decided to create an imaginary world of skiing in my bedroom with things I could find around my house.

 

Visual Arts

 artwork 12.25x19.5 OS TFA_BLOG
Outstanding Interpretation
in Visual Arts

Student Artist: Alice Abrams
“Imagination”


 

Alice Abrams HeadshotAlice Abrams: My painting reflects the excitement and wonder that comes with a young imagination.  In my painting, the little girl is escaping her dull, “Black & White” world and stepping into a colorful world fueled by her imagination.  One of the most magic times of a young child’s life is that moment when they realize that they aren’t condemned to this world and can be and do whatever they can imagine.  This little girls is just realizing that the sky is the limit with her dreams.

 

 

Special Artist

Special Artist Division

Sarah Kahn
“Sarah’s Friendship”

 

Sarah Khan Headshot 2Sarah Khan: It hasn’t been easy for me to make friends and keep them.  When I am able to make a connection with someone and they remain a loyal friend, it’s wonderful and as we say here magical.  The way I dance is mostly ballet.  I like to take what I learn, and embrace the meaning of the music and words.  I take what I am feeling inside and show in dance and the lessons I learned in friendship.  When I am dancing, the feeling, the steps I take, and the meaning I have inside joined together that is magic for me.  When I dance it expresses how I feel and uses the steps that I have learned in Ballet during the year.

 

Reflections at the U.S. Department of Education

Join us in celebrating arts in education by attending the Reflections Exhibit at the U.S. Department of Education between January 7, 2014- February 27, 2014.  The public exhibit is open Monday-Friday, except federal holidays, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and is located in the LBJ Education Building, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20202. To schedule a visit, contact Nicole Carinci, Management & Program Analyst at the U.S. Dept. of Education, at nicole.carinci@ed.gov or call (202)453-5585. National PTA thanks the thousands of parent volunteers and the U.S. Department of Education’s Student Art Exhibit Program for this opportunity to showcase award winning Reflections.

Student artwork will also be featured at the National PTA Convention June 19-22 in Austin, Texas. Save the date!

View all Reflections dance choreography film production, photography and visual arts award winners on the National PTA Flickr Album.

Please email reflections@pta.org for questions regarding Reflections student art exhibits.

 


Ethan Clark is the Manager of Arts in Education for National PTA in Alexandria, VA. Contact Ethan at eclark@pta.org.