Echo Lake Elementary School PTA

The Reflections Art Contest is a national PTA program that encourages students to explore their creativity and express themselves through art. Echo Lake Elementary students have the opportunity to participate by submitting original artwork in one or more of the following categories:

• Dance Choreography
• Film Production
• Literature
• Music Composition
• Photography
• Visual Arts

This year’s theme is “I Belong”, and we can’t wait to see how students interpret this theme through their art! Every student who participates will receive a prize, and winning entries will move on to the next level of competition for further recognition.

1. Create your artwork: Reflect on the theme “I Belong” and express your unique ideas in one of the six available categories.
2. Complete the Entry Form: Make sure to fill out the official Reflections Entry Form (you can edit it directly on the computer and save the completed copy to attach with your digital submission). You can find the form in English and Spanish.
3. Submit your artwork digitally: Take a high-quality photo, video, or digital scan of your artwork, then upload it through our Digital Submission Form. Submissions are due by Friday, November 14, 2025.

Note: If your artwork is handwritten or handmade (such as visual art or a written story), be sure to take clear photos or scans before submitting.

• Submission Deadline: Friday, November 14, 2025
• School-Level Awards Celebration: Date TBD
• Regional Judging: Early Winter 2025
• Virginia State Awards: Spring 2026
• National Awards Announcement: May 2026

• Visual Arts: Includes drawings, paintings, sculptures, and mixed media art. [Learn more] (link to category rules) (en español).
• Literature: Original stories, poems, or essays exploring the theme. [Learn more] (link to category rules) (en español).
• Photography: Capturing moments through a camera lens. [Learn more] (link to category rules) (en español).
• Music Composition: Create an original song or instrumental piece. [Learn more] (link to category rules) (en español).
• Dance Choreography: Express the theme through movement and dance. [Learn more] (link to category rules) (en español).
• Film Production: Create a short film or video that brings your interpretation of the theme to life. [Learn more] (link to category rules) (en español).

Reflections gives students a chance to:

• Explore and express their creativity.
• Gain recognition for their artistic talents.
• Build confidence by sharing their ideas and artistic voice.

Remember, every student who participates will be celebrated! Whether your child loves to draw, write, sing, dance, or create in other ways, the Reflections contest offers a way for them to share their unique perspective.

• Start early! Give your child plenty of time to brainstorm ideas, experiment with different mediums, and develop their entry.
• Focus on the theme: The theme “I Belong” is central to the contest, so encourage your child to think deeply about what the theme means to them and how they can creatively interpret it.
• Encourage creativity: Remind your child that this contest is all about expressing themselves—there are no right or wrong ways to approach the theme!

If you have any questions or need assistance with submitting artwork, feel free to reach out to our Reflections program coordinator at reflections@elespta.com. We’re here to support your child’s artistic journey!