Hillcrest Co-Chairs: Lisa Arnett Swantek & Kate Albrecht
The National PTA Reflections program provides opportunities for recognition and access to the arts, which boost student confidence and success in the arts and in life. Each year, more than 300,000 students around the country in Pre-K through Grade 12 create original works of art in response to a student-selected theme. This 50+ year-old program helps them explore their own feelings and ideas, develop artistic literacy and increase confidence.
The 2026-2027 Theme is What My Culture Means to Me
Deadline to turn in projects: Thursday, November 5
New this year: No more paper forms! The Reflections entry process is now digital. Here’s a step-by-step guide for you and your student/s:
1. Review this year’s theme with your child: What My Culture Means to Me
2. Double-check their artwork meets the guidelines. Chat with your child about what they plan to create and make sure it’s within the Contest Guidelines for their chosen category (for example, drawings or paintings have a maximum size; videos have a maximum length and file size, etc.)
3. When their project is complete, have them write their Artist’s Statement (10-10 words) explaining how they made their creation and how they interpreted the theme.
4. It’s time to submit! Click on our submission guide and scroll down to #6 to click on the entry link for Hillcrest. For Dance, Music, Literature and Film, you’re all done after you press submit. For Visual Art and Photography, please submit the digital form and have your child drop off their hard copy artwork with Mrs. Reinhart or Mrs. Mucciolo in the school office. Note: You will need to use a personal email address to submit the Google Form (not a school or work email).
5. Have questions? Check our FAQ or email us directly (see link above). We are here to help!
