Calling All High School Artists!

What does "diversity" mean to you? We'll find out soon in an upcoming arts competition.

The Clinton PTA is proud to launch a tremendous opportunity for Morgan School students to compete in a range of artistic venues for local, state and national recognition.

The program, titled Reflections, is a National PTA program that encourages student pursuit and expression of artistic talent in the categories of: literature, visual arts (painting and drawing), photography, film production, dance choreography and musical composition.

Clinton PTA Reflections Chairperson MaryJo Phelps is passionate about encouraging and honoring those students who are not always in the limelight. She shares, “We don't all march to the same drummer, this program supports the philosophy of the whole child education.”

In its 40 year history, the program has showcased the talents of millions of students across the country.

Each year has a theme and this year it is “Diversity Means...”

Students are encouraged to express themselves in interpretation of what this means to them. First, second and third place winners are selected by local experts in each field. The first place winners in each category will then compete at the state level.

The best of the best go on to compete on the national level where each year awards for Outstanding Interpretation, Excellence, Merit and Honorable Mention are given. The awards vary by degree, but include cash and online gallery exhibition.

When entry forms and details for each category were distributed recently at the Morgan School, student interest was piqued. Some boldly announced their talent and interest, others were less sure, but intrigued nonetheless and picked up applications.

Teachers in the arts were also provided detailed packages to share with their students, as were guidance counselors. An entry or award winner in such a competition adds weight to an application and portfolio. Principal Keri Hagness said she embraced the opportunity for the school.

Clinton PTA Vice President Shelby Auletta hopes that local businesses related to the specific artistic categories will consider donating prizes to local winners. Honoring creative talent is a direct reflection of the PTA message, “Every Child, One Voice.”  For more information on the Clinton PTA visit their website.

Parenting Magazine is the National Media Sponsor and hosts online galleries that feature an exclusive selection of artwork from the program.

All submissions are due by December 20th, 2011. Specifications for each category can be picked up at the guidance office at Morgan or downloaded online at www.ptareflections.org.

For specific details or questions, readers can contact Mary Jo Phelps, Clinton PTA Reflections Chair at maryjo_phelps@sbcglobal.net.