PTA honors students' artistic creativity, skill

More than 30 young artists in the San Diego Unified School District have been honored by the San Diego Unified Council of PTA.

The Reflections Arts Recognition Program is a national arts recognition and achievement program for students. Since 1969, more than 10 million students across the nation have taken part in this popular PTA program.

"This year, 2013-14, we had a wonderful assortment of Reflections entries," said Barbara Flannery, Vice President of Programs for the local PTA. "Our Reflections reception will take place in February."

Award of Merit entries are on display in the Normal Street Central Office foyer. Entries are divided into five levels: Primary (K-2), Intermediate (3-5), Middle School (6-8), High School (9-12) and Special Artist.

"The excitement and enthusiasm that the program generates for students, parents, schools and communities is unmatched with the majority of California PTAs participating in the program at all PTA levels," she said.

The Reflections Program provides an excellent opportunity for students:

• Unleash their creative talents and be inspired;
• Express themselves imaginatively in their artwork;
• Experience the joy and fun of making art;
• Tap into critical thinking skills to create art inspired by the annual theme;
• Receive positive recognition for their original works of art.

As an added bonus, in showcasing and celebrating student talent, the Reflections Program increases community awareness of the importance of the arts in education. Congratulations to the artists have received an award of Excellence and their Reflections Entries have and moved on to the next level which is county wide through Ninth District PTA.

"Thanks to our Reflections volunteers who made this all possible: Ann Mellon, Sabrina Bazzo, Desiree Rauterkus, Rebecca Cosgrove, NiChelle Cannon, Christy Korda and Shawny Sheldon from San Diego High School Art Department; Kristina Alfonso from Children’s Museum; and the Helix High School Music Students," she said.

Students honored were from Mira Mesa High School, Wangenheim, Standley and Challenger middle schools, Language Academy, and Sandburg Elementary schools.
For more information on the program, contact Flannery at  baflannery@yahoo.com.