Calling All CJMS Artists!
The ’26-’27 National PTA Reflections Program is now accepting submissions with this year’s theme, “What My Culture Means to Me” and Cabin John PTSA is delighted to be able to offer this opportunity to students again this year.
Students can express their creativity through Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, or Visual Arts.
This contest provides students a platform for self-expression, helping them hone their creative talents and explore different art forms. It offers an opportunity to showcase their work, fostering pride and accomplishment.
Submission Deadline: 11:59 pm on December 7, 2026
Submission Instructions:
Reflect on the theme, “What My Culture Means to Me”
Choose an art category (dance, film, literature, music, photography or visual arts)
Create your project.
Complete the Student Entry Form
Complete the Online Submission Form (Note: Form Submission Not Permitted Using MCPS Student Account). You will be asked to upload your Student Entry Form and the artwork in an acceptable digital format (MP4, JPG, PDF, etc.).
If you have questions or need assistance with the online submission form, please contact Reflections Program Chair, Claire Andrews.
Students submitting to more than one category must complete the entry and online submission form for each entry.
For more details, contest rules, and submission guidelines, please visit the National PTA Reflections website.
Timeline:
October 2026: Reflections program launch
December 7, 2026: Submission deadline
December 22, 2026: CJMS Winners announced & submitted to next stage
Spring 2027: CJMS Reflections Art Show and Awards
Winner Selection:
Only three (3) entries per category can move on to the Montgomery County PTA level. From there, contestants compete at the state in consideration for the national level. If there are more than three entries in a category, an independent committee will review them to determine which will move forward.
Judging Criteria:
Judging of Reflections entries uses blind judging (i.e., no names are shared) and a scoring rubric. Submissions will be evaluated for:
Interpretation of Theme
Merit/Creativity
Mastery/Technique
For more details on judging, please review the National PTA Review Criteria.