Frequently Asked Questions
Is Reflections for visual art only?
No! Entries can be:
- Dance Choreography — Originally choreographed dance composition presented in a video entry
- Film Production — Original works, with or without sound, of animation, narrative, documentary, experimental or multimedia
- Literature — Original works of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, prose, drama, reflective essay, narrative or short story. Entries must be a single literary work; collections are not accepted.
- Music Composition — Original musical composition, with or without words, presented in an audio recording
- Photography — Color or black and white. Included techniques: Photogram, panorama, photomontage (one print of multiple original photos), single or multiple exposure, negative sandwich.
- Visual Arts — Drawing; painting in tempera, oil, acrylic, watercolor or T-shirt paints; computer-generated art; two-dimensional collage; printmaking; needlework; leather tooling (see link for all accepted visual art forms). NOTE: LWPTSA Council is accepting ONLY 2D visual art.
What ages/grades are eligible?
The Wilder Reflections contest supports Wilder students from Preschool through 5th grade for the 2024-2025 school year.
What is the Special Artist Division?
Students with disabilities who receive services under IDEA or ADA: Section 504 have the opportunity and accommodations to participate fully in the program. In fact, we can advance up to 6 qualifying Wilder students to the next round! The Special Artist Division offers modified rules and guidelines to ensure that every student has the chance to be part of the National PTA Reflections® program. We’ll work w/ you to make sure your entry is seen!
Can I do a group project?
Each entry must be the work of a single named author/creator. You can however enlist actors, singers, etc to perform the work you create and direct.
Are there prizes?
Yes! Entries submitted by October 1st will get an early bird certificate.
AND, artists will be recognized with personalized award certificates in a banquet at Wilder in November!
What about money?
Actually, yes! The national winner receives an $800 Young Artist Scholarship, and $200 for the Wilder PTSA.
Can I enter multiple times?
This contest is one entry per student.
Can I redo my entry?
Yes, as long as it’s before the November 1st deadline you can reach out to [email protected] and coordinate a swap of your entry.
How many rounds of competition are there in Reflections?
There is a Wilder Reflections PTSA Contest from which qualifying entries continue on to (in order) the Lake Washington PTSA Contest, the Washington State PTA Contest, and the National PTA Contest. At each phase there is opportunity for awards and recognition!
How much time should I spend?
You can spend as much or little time on your entry as you’d like. Just make sure your work embraces the current theme is your best work in your chosen medium, and captures your unique, original thoughts.
How detailed does my work need to be?
Any level of detail works! Again, see the tips and judging criteria to create a great entry!
Do I have to enter?
No, this is an optional contest!
To learn more, visit
Other questions? Please contact [email protected]