2026-2027 Reflections theme:
“What My Culture Means to Me”

Digital entries are due Thursday, October 15, 2026.

For more than 50 years, PTA Reflections has encouraged students to express themselves through the arts. Independence Elementary students may create original work inspired by this year’s theme in one or more of six categories:

• Dance Choreography

• Film Production

• Literature

• Music Composition

• Photography

• 2D Visual Arts

Who Can Participate?

Reflections is open to all Independence Elementary students in the following divisions:

• Primary: Pre-K–Grade 2

• Intermediate: Grades 3–5

• Accessible Arts: All grade levels

To participate, the student or at least one person in the student’s primary household must be a current member of the Independence Elementary PTA. Join Independence Elementary PTA

Rules and Entry Requirements

Students may enter one or more categories and may submit multiple entries within a category. Each entry must:

• Be the original work of one student

• Be created specifically for the 2026–2027 Reflections program

• Relate to the theme, “What My Culture Means to Me”

• Include a title and an artist statement of 10–100 words

• Follow the requirements for its selected arts category

Please review the rules carefully before beginning an entry:

View the 2026–2027 Official Rules and Arts Category Guidelines

View Texas PTA Eligibility and Participation Information

Accessible Arts

The Accessible Arts division welcomes students who identify as having a disability and may receive services under IDEA or Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This division provides accommodations so students of all abilities can participate fully. Accessible Arts requirements and accommodation guidelines are included in the official rules packet linked above.

How to Submit

Independence Elementary submissions can be dropped off at the front office or delivered via EMAIL. All entries must include the STUDENT ENTRY FORM and be submitted Thursday, October 15, 2026.

Judging and Recognition

Entries are evaluated primarily on interpretation of the theme, creativity, and artistic vision. Qualifying entries may advance from the school level to council, state, and national judging.

Families of Independence Elementary finalists will be notified by email after local judging. Texas PTA results are typically announced in March, followed by National PTA results in May.

Questions? Contact IndependenceElemPTA@gmail.com.