Learn how to create and submit your artistic interpretation of “I Belong!” for each of the six categories below
Dear River Vale Families,
We are thrilled to announce the launch of the 2025-2026 PTA Reflections Program, themed "I Belong!" For over 50 years, the Reflections program has inspired students nationwide to connect with the arts in meaningful ways. Watch this video to learn more about the program and read this article to learn about the origins of this year’s theme.
This nationwide arts contest invites students in Pre-K through 12th grade to creatively explore what belonging means to them across six categories: visual arts, music composition, literature, photography, dance choreography, and film production. They are encouraged to communicate their interpretation of "I Belong!" through whatever medium speaks to them.
There are four divisions, and each division category will have a total of 4 winners who will be announced in January 2026
Primary (K through grade 2)
Intermediate (grades 3-5),
Middle School (grades 6-8)
Accessible Arts (students K – 8 with a disability and/or receive services via an IDEA or ADA: Section 504).
These students will advance to the County Level, and then the County Level winners will be announced in February and advance to the State Level. The State PTA will advance 30 submissions to the National Level, and those winners will be announced in spring 2026. Students can win a multitude of prizes on the District and National Levels ranging from gift certificates to performance opportunities as well as monetary rewards.
Entries are due by Wednesday, December 3, 2025 and must be submitted using the online entry form. (Use the “SUBMIT YOUR WORK HERE” button on this page.) Students must adhere to the category guidelines and submit their entry in the required format. Please see the buttons on the left for more details and guidelines for each category. One individual per entry; no group submissions please.
We will visit each school over the next week to spread the word and discuss this incredible opportunity. If you have any questions, please contact co-chairs, Jen Haggerty or Stephanie Aud at rvptareflections@gmail.com.
We believe every child has a unique voice and can’t wait to see their artistic talents shine!
Warm regards,
Jen Haggerty & Stephanie Aud
