HMS PTSA Reflections · 2026–2027
Tell your story. Make it yours.
Create an original work inspired by this year’s theme, “What My Culture Means to Me.” Every HMS student is invited to participate.
Online submissions require the student or parent to sign in to a Google account.
2026–2027 PTA Reflections Theme
More than a contest
Reflections began in 1969 through the vision of Mary Lou Anderson, then president of Colorado PTA. More than 50 years later, it remains one of the nation’s largest student arts programs, with hundreds of thousands of students participating each year.
The program gives students a place to explore their thoughts, feelings, experiences, and identity. Recognition matters, but the heart of Reflections is creative expression: helping every student find a voice and share a story only they can tell.
Six ways to interpret the theme
Students may enter one or more categories. Each entry must be an original work created by the student and connected to “What My Culture Means to Me.” Click on each category to learn more.
Let the student lead
The strongest Reflections entries feel personal. Students should make their own artistic choices and create work that reflects their individual interpretation of the theme.
Parents and adults can encourage, ask questions, and help students understand the rules, but the idea and creative work must belong to the student.
The bridge between the idea and the art
The artist statement is an important part of every entry. It gives judges context they cannot get from the artwork alone and explains how the work connects to the annual theme.
- Write in the student’s own voice.
- Be specific and personal.
- Explain choices, feelings, memories, or ideas represented in the work.
Ready to enter?
Every student must complete the online entry form. Digital entries may be uploaded through the form. Physical artwork may be delivered to the HMS front office. All HMS entries are due Friday, November 20.
Create
Choose a category and make an original work inspired by the theme.
Complete the form
Every student must complete the HMS entry form, including the artist statement.
Submit by November 20
Upload your digital entry through the form. Physical artwork should be labeled with the student’s name and delivered to the HMS front office.
Your story belongs here.
Complete the required HMS form, add your artist statement, and submit your original work by November 20.
