“I don’t even remember the season. I just remember walking between them and feeling for the first time that I belonged somewhere.” ~ Stephen Chbosky, The Perks of Being a Wallflower~

Illinois PTA Reflections

Get ready for the 2025–2026 PTA Reflections theme “I Belong!”

If your child is interested in participating in the Reflections cultural arts program, you’ll find some resources below. Your PTA/PTSA will be able to access many more materials to plan for a successful and rewarding program for students in Illinois PTA Leadership Resources.

The PTA Reflections program provides opportunities for recognition which can boost student confidence and access to the arts improves focus. Visual and performing arts naturally align with established Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) goals.

Each year, over 300,000 students in Pre-K through Grade 12 nationwide create original works of art in response to a student-selected theme. Entering its 56th year, this program helps them explore their own thoughts, feelings, and ideas, develop artistic literacy, increase confidence, and find a love for learning that will help them become more successful in school and in life.

Students submit their completed works of art in one or more of the arts categories: Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, Visual Arts. They participate in their grade division: Primary (Pre-K – Grade 2), Intermediate (Grades 3-5), Middle School (Grades 6-8), High School (Grades 9-12), Accessible Arts (All grades welcome). Students who identify as having a disability and may receive services under IDEA or ADA: Section 504 may enter in the Accessible Arts Division or grade division most closely aligned to their functional abilities.

Need help starting a Reflections Program through your PTA? Contact Reflections@illinoispta.org to get started.

Illinois PTA Reflections Program 2024-25 State Advancement Results

Further Advancement of Illinois PTA Entries at the National Level