Through the annual Reflections Art Contest, PTSA enables students to express themselves creatively and potentially earn national recognition, PTSA vice president of student programs Preethi Ramaiya said. The competition opens from Sept. 12 to Oct. 12 and allows students to participate in six different categories, which consist of visual, written and performing arts, Ramaiya added. 

When finalizing the theme, PTSA looked for a message that would emphasize building community and ultimately decided on “I Belong,” Ramaiya said. 

“[The theme] ties to things like identity and community, and how [students] identify themselves in that context,” Ramaiya said. “There are so many different ways that you can interpret that theme, and it is a rich theme we can hopefully explore this year.” 

With previous experience in the Reflections Art Contest, sophomore Charlyse Phan plans to express herself through literature. When searching for possible submissions, she first gathers inspiration through self-reflection and works to find how it relates to the contest theme, Phan said. 

“I view contests as a way to exercise my creativity,” Phan said. “It’s a challenge, and I don’t expect much from it, but it’s exciting to participate in.” 

This year, junior James Pablo plans on submitting an entry for the film category about his nostalgic experience at a summer program. 

“I’ve been getting into film a lot recently,” Pablo said. “I wanted to put my work out there more so I can get feedback and see how far I’ve come from when I first started.”

In past years, Pablo has participated in multiple categories, including photography, literature, film and music composition. Meeting new people and having his work admired was a fun experience, Pablo said, especially when his entries were recognized at the state level. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing the submissions this year,” Pablo said. “People should express their creativity and see how far it can take them.”

Ultimately, the Reflections Art Contest offers a way for students to showcase their identity and abilities without having to worry about the outcome, Ramaiya said. 

“You have nothing to lose, and it doesn’t have to be perfect,” Ramaiya said. “I always look forward to seeing what students can bring forth.”