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Reflections is a National PTA arts in education program. The program was started in 1969 and is the largest arts program of its kind in the United States. Students have the opportunity to use their creative talents by expressing themselves through their own original works created around a theme that changes each year. 

The theme for the 2026-2027 year is What My Culture Means to Me

 
Reflections is not “just an art contest.”  It helps kids take risks, be inspired, think creatively, and be celebrated for their creativity and work. Studies have shown there is a positive relationship between the arts and well-being. 

reflections 2026

 

Due by November 6, 2026

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Each entry must be an original creation by one student.
Entries are judged on creative ability and interpretation of the theme.
 

A student may submit an entry in any of six categories:

  • Literature:  Works of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, prose, drama, short stories and lyrics.
  • Music Composition: Original musical composition, with or without words.
  • Photography: Color or black and white, included techniques: photogram, negative sandwich, and multiple exposure.
  • Visual Arts:  2D (at least one digital image) - Drawing, painting in tempera, oil, acrylic, watercolor & computer generated art, two-dimensional collage & mixed media, printmaking. We cannot accept 3D art. *Please no stretched canvas more than ¾ in. and please no framed art.*
  • Film/Video: Original works, with or without sound, of animation, narrative, documentary, experimental or music video/film.
  • Choreography/Dance: Originally choreographed dance composition.

    (Click the hyperlinked categories to see the entry guidelines.)

Participation is organized by student age and grade levels. Student works are critiqued against others in the same grade division. 
Primary: Preschool – Grade 2
Intermediate: Grades 3 – 5

For artists needing accommodations to participate, the Accessible Arts Division is an option for students with a disability as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). 

 
Winners from Bell advance to local council (Lake Washington PTSA), then possibly state and national judging. 
 
Digital technology may not provide the primary design, but can be used to develop, enhance and/or present the entry.
 
Each submission is considered complete with a Google Form including uploading digital art within the form
 

For visual arts:

    • Take a clear photo of your art: Make sure your photo is clear and simple. Avoid any extra blank space or distractions around the artwork.
    • No names appearing on/in the submitted art file. (Names & initials are ok on the back of 2D art but not the front).
    • All artists MUST keep their work in presentation condition, or we will not be able to advance the artwork.  Hard copies of finalist selections will be collected to display at LWPTSA's January 2027 Open House.
    • If you are in need of supplies for the visual art category, we have art kits for loan that students can bring home. Fill out the form HERE and we will deliver a kit to your child's teacher.
Reflections entries will be on display at the LWSD Resource Center and can be viewed during operational hours January 21-26, 2027. 
All are welcome to celebrate artists from across Lake Washington School District at the Open House held at the Resource Center on January 21st, 2027 5pm-7pm.

Questions? please email reflections@agbellptsa.org.

 

 

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