2026–2027 Program

Reflections

What My Culture Means to Me

Reflections is a National PTA arts recognition program that encourages students to explore their creativity and express themselves through original artwork inspired by an annual theme.

 

This year's theme What My Culture Means to Me invites students to reflect on the traditions, experiences, people, places, and values that help shape who they are.

Start with your story

Find Your Inspiration

Culture is personal. Think about the experiences, traditions, and connections that make you who you are.

 

Family & Traditions What family traditions, celebrations, or memories are meaningful to you?
Music & Language What songs, words, stories, or sounds connect you to your culture?
Places & Community What places or communities make you feel connected and at home?
Values & Identity What beliefs, experiences, or people have helped shape who you are?

There is no single way to express your culture. Choose an idea that matters to you and bring it to life through your own original artwork.

Choose an art category, create your own original entry, and review the official requirements before submitting your work to Windham PTA.

 

Student & Family Guide
Submission Deadline December 23, 2026
Please submit your completed entry to Windham PTA by the deadline.

Pick Your Art Category

Windham PTA Reflections art categories

Student Divisions

Primary Pre-K–Grade 2
Intermediate Grades 3–5
Middle School Grades 6–8
High School Grades 9–12
Accessible Arts All grades, subject to eligibility

The Rules

  • Follow the requirements for your selected art category and student division.
  • Create original work and follow the official guidelines for submission, labeling, and permitted materials.
  • Check the official rules for copyright and other content restrictions before including material created by someone else.
  • Make sure your entry meets all submission requirements before emailing it to Windham PTA.

How to Submit and Ask a question

Submit Your Entry

Fill out the completed application form here.

Submit your Form

Have a Question?

Contact the Reflections team.

Ask a Question

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate?

Students may participate in the division that corresponds to their grade level, subject to the program's eligibility requirements. Review the official guidelines for details.

When is the deadline?

Windham PTA's submission deadline is December 23, 2026. Please allow enough time to prepare and email your entry.

Does my artwork have to be original?

Entries must meet the originality requirements for the program and category. Consult the official guidelines for complete requirements.

Can a parent or teacher help?

Adults may provide appropriate guidance, but the creative work must meet National PTA's student authorship requirements. Check the official rules for the permitted level of assistance.

Can I use digital tools or AI?

Review the current official guidelines to determine what tools and methods are permitted for your category. Requirements may vary.

Can I use copyrighted music or images?

Copyright and permissions requirements may apply. Review the official rules before including music, images, or other material created by someone else.

Can I submit my entry in another language?

Check the official category guidelines for language, translation, and any required written information accompanying your entry.

What is Accessible Arts?

Accessible Arts provides an option for eligible students with disabilities to participate with appropriate accommodations. Consult the official rules for eligibility details.

Should I put my name on my artwork?

Follow the identification and labeling instructions for your category. Check the official submission requirements before adding identifying information to your artwork.