ELIGIBILITY. The National PTA Accessible Arts Division is an option for students who identify as having a disability and may receive services under IDEA or ADA: Section 504. The division welcomes students of all ages and offers division-specific accommodations to ensure that every student has the chance to participate fully in the program.

Who qualifies as a disabled individual under the law? The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines an individual with a disability as a person who: (1) Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of that person; (2) Has a record of such an impairment; or (3) Is regarded as having such impairment.

HOW TO ENTER. To participate, students check the box on the Student Entry Form and select an arts category and grade-level division. When relevant, students compete against other students based on the selected grade-level division. By participating in the division, students

• Compete against other students in the Accessible Arts Division and are awarded as part of the division.

• Participate in the Accessible Arts Division for all entries submitted.

• Follow the general rules and arts category guidelines specific to their submissions, modified only by accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

ACCOMODATIONS. Any accommodation should be both specific and limited to the student’s disability and should not impact the artistic process. The following provides a non-exhaustive list of allowable accommodations:

• Allowed Non-Artistic Accommodations

  • • Use of adaptive technology or assistive devices is allowed.

    • While the artist directs the process, assistants (a parent, teacher, other adult) may help with executing the artist's vision with typing, transcribing, etc.

• Allowed Division-Specific Accommodations

  • • Use the “Additional Details” field to provide details about how the student’s disability and/or support needs impacted their entry (10 to 100 words, optional).

    • As necessary, students may select the grade-level division most closely aligned to their support needs. Contact local PTA and/or state PTA for additional details.

Assistants to student artists may not, in any way, involve themselves in the actual artistic process or act without direction from the artist. The following provides a non-exhaustive list of accommodations that are not allowed:

• Personally selecting a title for artwork and/or writing, editing or interpreting a student’s artis statement.

• Drafting/editing language for literature or film; creating/editing footage or music.

• Composing music, writing lyrics, combining sounds; choreographing dance moves.

• Creating/editing visual arts; selecting subjects, edits and camera angles for photos.

All participants must also follow the official rules for participation.

Interested? Let us know here.

VISUAL ARTS includes many art forms that are visual in nature. Through combined elements like color, shape, and texture, visual artwork is not only pleasing to look at but also expresses an idea or thought. Collections are not accepted.

To Portray Your Original Artwork

• Consider the following accepted forms of visual arts: Architecture (2D/3D), carpentry, ceramics, collages (combined non-photographic and/or photographic elements), digital art and graphics (drawings/paintings/illustration), crafts, design, dioramas, drawing, fiberwork, jewelry, kites, metal etching/punch work, mobiles, painting, printmaking, sculpture and wind chimes.

• Avoid the following unaccepted forms of visual: Reproductions or enlargements of other artwork are not accepted.

• Show a clear relation to the theme using art form, use of color, texture, shape, proportion etc. to show a clear relation to the theme.

Do Not have artists full name showing on front of entry!

DIGITAL TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY

Digital technology and/or software may not provide the primary design and/or concept, but can be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry. Entries may not be exclusively created with generative tools (e.g., AI) and/or composed exclusively of elements generated or provided by the technology platform.

Accepted:

• A sound library generated performance of student’s original composed score.

• Use of audio editing platforms to mix, enhance or completely transform original audio.

Not Accepted:

• Algorithmic composition techniques in music submissions.

• Use of templates, formulas, etc. provided by a platform/technology.

Guidelines

• Describe Use of Technology: If digital technology is used, entrants must use the “Additional Details” field to provide a brief description of the tools and method used in the creation process, including any generative elements (10 to 50 words).

• Verify Prohibited Technology: Check if your state PTA prohibits the use of any digital platforms and/or methods (i.e., artificial intelligence).

Interested? Let us know here.

PHOTOGRAPHY is the process of creating an image. By focusing on objects using various lenses, filters and light sources, photographers may demonstrate the use of photographic techniques conventionally or digitally. Collages and collections of photos are not accepted. 

Do not show artist's full name on the front of the art work!

To Portray Your Original Artwork

• Consider the following accepted forms of photography: a single photo, panoramic, photomontage (one print of multiple original photos), a multiple exposure, negative sandwich or photogram and original black-and-white and color images.

• Avoid the following unaccepted forms of photography: entries with added graphics and/or non-photographic elements (e.g., lettering, icons), collages and collections of photos, original film (negatives or transparencies) and multidimensional pieces.

• To show a clear relation of the photo to the theme, use objects, lighting and the location.

DIGITAL TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY

Digital technology and/or software may not provide the primary design and/or concept, but can be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry. Entries may not be exclusively created with generative tools (e.g., AI) and/or composed exclusively of elements generated or provided by the technology platform.

Accepted:

• A sound library generated performance of student’s original composed score.

• Use of audio editing platforms to mix, enhance or completely transform original audio.

Not Accepted:

• Algorithmic composition techniques in music submissions.

• Use of templates, formulas, etc. provided by a platform/technology.

Guidelines

• Describe Use of Technology: If digital technology is used, entrants must use the “Additional Details” field to provide a brief description of the tools and method used in the creation process, including any generative elements (10 to 50 words).

• Verify Prohibited Technology: Check if your state PTA prohibits the use of any digital platforms and/or methods (i.e., artificial intelligence).

Interested? Let us know here.

MUSIC COMPOSITION is the process of creating a new piece of music. The composer (e.g., student submitting entry) is a person who expresses their own thoughts and ideas through the use of sound. Entries in the middle and high school grade divisions must include music score/notation.

To Portray Your Original Composition

• Consider the following musical styles and instruments, A Cappella, Blues, Choral, Country, Electronic, Hip hop, Jazz, Latin, Musical, Orchestral, Pop, R&B, Religious, Rock, Symphonic/Concert Band and Traditional.

• To show a clear relation to the theme, use structure, melody, rhythm, instruments, lyrics, emotion, etc. to show a clear relation to the theme.

• Explore new methods and make use of instruments, sounds, styles and combinations. All are accepted.

Do NOT say or include artist full name on any part of the recording!

DIGITAL TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY

Digital technology and/or software may not provide the primary design and/or concept, but can be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry. Entries may not be exclusively created with generative tools (e.g., AI) and/or composed exclusively of elements generated or provided by the technology platform.

Accepted:

• A sound library generated performance of student’s original composed score.

• Use of audio editing platforms to mix, enhance or completely transform original audio.

Not Accepted:

• Algorithmic composition techniques in music submissions.

• Use of templates, formulas, etc. provided by a platform/technology.

Guidelines

• Describe Use of Technology: If digital technology is used, entrants must use the “Additional Details” field to provide a brief description of the tools and method used in the creation process, including any generative elements (10 to 50 words).

• Verify Prohibited Technology: Check if your state PTA prohibits the use of any digital platforms and/or methods (i.e., artificial intelligence).

Interested? Let us know here.

DANCE CHOREOGRAPHY is the act of creating movement, usually coordinated with music, to represent an idea through dance (e.g., your interpretation of the Reflections theme).

Portray Your Original Choreography

• Consider the following styles and ensembles-Ballet, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Jazz, Tap, Folk Dance, Religious Dance, Dance Ensembles (color guard/indoor guard), Ice Skating/Dancing and Gymnastics-floor Routine. Submission MUST be choreographed by the student not a dance teacher or coach.

• Show clear relation between choreography and the theme with choreographic style and techniques, background song(s), props and the location to show a clear relation of the dance choreography to the theme.

• Do NOT add graphics or digital special effects over the video of your dance!

Do NOT say or print artist full name on any part of the video! 

Video Quality Tips

• Start and end with silence: Leave two seconds of silence at the beginning and end of your recording.

• Do a test recording: Record a short test and listen to it. Make sure the record volume is not too high or too low.

• Remove background noise: Make the room quiet by turning off things like air conditioners, fans and phones.

• Clear background music: If using background music, make sure it sounds clear in the recording. Using an external speaker can help improve the sound quality.

• Use the back camera: If recording with a smartphone, use the back camera for better quality.

• Keep the camera still: Use a tripod to hold the camera steady. Avoid editing, multiple angles and jump cuts, as they can distract from the choreography.

• Choose good angles: Make sure the camera shows all of you. Film in a horizontal position (side-to-side) to show more space. Remember that the camera's height affects how you look.

• Fill the frame: Try to fill the camera frame with your dance without cutting off any part of your body. Don't film too far away so your facial expressions are still visible. Mark the floor to know where the edges of the frame are.

2025-26 Reflections guidelines. https://www.pta.org/home/programs/reflections/craft-an-entry 

• Good lighting: Record in a well-lit space and try to avoid shadows that block any part of your body or choreography. 

DIGITAL TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY

Digital technology and/or software may not provide the primary design and/or concept, but can be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry. Entries may not be exclusively created with generative tools (e.g., AI) and/or composed exclusively of elements generated or provided by the technology platform.

Accepted:

• A sound library generated performance of student’s original composed score.

• Use of audio editing platforms to mix, enhance or completely transform original audio.

Not Accepted:

• Algorithmic composition techniques in music submissions.

• Use of templates, formulas, etc. provided by a platform/technology.

Guidelines

• Describe Use of Technology: If digital technology is used, entrants must use the “Additional Details” field to provide a brief description of the tools and method used in the creation process, including any generative elements (10 to 50 words).

• Verify Prohibited Technology: Check if your state PTA prohibits the use of any digital platforms and/or methods (i.e., artificial intelligence).

Interested? Let us know here.

LITERATURE is the art of writing. The author (e.g., student submitting the entry) is a person who expresses their own thoughts and ideas through the use of words. Collections of literary work, such as multiple poems or short stories are not accepted.

Do not show artist's full name on the front of the literary work!

To Portray Your Original Writing

• Consider the following literary styles, Prose, Poetry, Drama, Reflective Essay, Narrative, Short Story.

• To show a clear relation to the theme, use fiction or non-fiction, plot and characterization, setting and imagery, style, symbolism, etc. Illustration, Translation & Transcription Illustration

The following uses of illustration are acceptable:

• Originality: Illustrated entries are acceptable if the visual content is created by the student artist. Only literary content is judged.

• Prioritize Your Writing: The plot or purpose of an illustrated entry must be explained through written content, not illustration. For example, an illustrated comic may be accepted, but only the written plot, dialogue, and descriptions will be reviewed.

Dictation, Transcription and Translation

As necessary, the following uses of dictation, transcription and translation are acceptable. Collaborate with your PTA/PTSA or state PTA on any additional needs.

• Translation: Students may submit in their preferred language. An interpretive translation in English must accompany the entry.

• Transcription: Based on the student’s grade and/or support needs, entries may be dictated to another person and printed or typed in exact words as provided by the student.

• Accuracy: Translators/transcribers should make every attempt to retain the same level of language and accuracy that is reflected in the student’s original work.

DIGITAL TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY

Digital technology and/or software may not provide the primary design and/or concept, but can be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry. Entries may not be exclusively created with generative tools (e.g., AI) and/or composed exclusively of elements generated or provided by the technology platform.

Accepted:

• A sound library generated performance of student’s original composed score.

• Use of audio editing platforms to mix, enhance or completely transform original audio.

Not Accepted:

• Algorithmic composition techniques in music submissions.

• Use of templates, formulas, etc. provided by a platform/technology.

Guidelines

• Describe Use of Technology: If digital technology is used, entrants must use the “Additional Details” field to provide a brief description of the tools and method used in the creation process, including any generative elements (10 to 50 words).

• Verify Prohibited Technology: Check if your state PTA prohibits the use of any digital platforms and/or methods (i.e., artificial intelligence).

Interested? Let us know here.

FILM PRODUCTION is the process of making a film. The producer (student submitting the entry) is not required to appear in the film but if the student chooses a tripod may be used. All screenwriting, directing and editing must be done by the student producer. PowerPoint presentations are not allowed.

To Portray Your Original Film

• Consider creating your film in using the following styles:

  • • • Animation: Demonstrates motion by sequencing still objects or using computer-generated graphics.

      • Narrative: Tells a fictional story developed by the student.

      • Documentary: Presents facts and information.

      • Experimental: Explores movement, light and montage.

      • Multimedia: Uses a combination of different contents (text, audio, still images, animation, etc.).

• To show a clear relation to the theme, develop a work of fiction or nonfiction and make use of plot and characters, visuals (setting, costumes, animation), sound and background music, editing, etc.

Do NOT say or print artist full name on any part of the video!

DIGITAL TOOLS AND TECHNOLOGY

Digital technology and/or software may not provide the primary design and/or concept, but can be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry. Entries may not be exclusively created with generative tools (e.g., AI) and/or composed exclusively of elements generated or provided by the technology platform.

Accepted:

• A sound library generated performance of student’s original composed score.

• Use of audio editing platforms to mix, enhance or completely transform original audio.

Not Accepted:

• Algorithmic composition techniques in music submissions.

• Use of templates, formulas, etc. provided by a platform/technology.

Guidelines

• Describe Use of Technology: If digital technology is used, entrants must use the “Additional Details” field to provide a brief description of the tools and method used in the creation process, including any generative elements (10 to 50 words).

• Verify Prohibited Technology: Check if your state PTA prohibits the use of any digital platforms and/or methods (i.e., artificial intelligence).

Interested? Let us know here.