Round Rock ISD is proud to announce that three students from the McNeil, Westwood, and Stony Point Vertical Learning Communities are moving on to the 2026 National PTA Reflections Competitions!
PTAs, or the many Parent Teacher Associations across the nation, all fall under the National PTA, which is the oldest and largest child advocacy association in America.
This program starts with a new theme each year; this year’s is “I Belong.”
At the local level, PTA groups host a competition among all the district’s student entries in areas of choreography, film, literature, music composition, photography, and other visual arts related to the theme.
Reflections Chair of the Round Rock ISD Council of PTAs, Shannon Probe, said the reason why she supports this program.
“One of the best things about reflections is the many forms in which students are able to express themselves, be it through many different mediums and art practices, with the theme of the contest changing each year.”
This program is divided into four divisions: Primary (Pre-K-2nd Grade), Intermediate (3rd Grade-5th Grade), Middle School (6th Grade-8th Grade), and High School (9th Grade-12th Grade). There is also an “Accessible Arts” division, which is open to students who identify with having a disability and may receive services under ADA Section 504, which offers division-specific accommodation to ensure every student has the ability to participate fully.
As students place within the local, state, and national levels, they may receive an Overall Award of Excellence, Award of Excellence, Award of Merit, or Honorable Mention.
As a former educator, Probe explains her thoughts on the art entries she’s reviewed.
“While looking at reflection art, I have smiled wholeheartedly, laughed, and teared up. There’s a wealth of talent in your own school district, and I know there’s a wealth of talent in every school district, but I feel such an honor to witness the talents and efforts of our young people through their art.”
After the local level, selected students then advance to the state-level judging. This year, 870 student entries advanced, and over 600 were awarded state-level awards. All Overall Award of Excellence entries will then be advanced to National PTA for the final round of judging.
The three students who will be representing Round Rock ISD at the national level’s work are featured below.
"I Belong,” a Short Film by Gavin B.
"I'm Home," a Music Composition by Gavin B.
“I Belong to the Canvas,” by Phoebe C.
“From Reflection to Connection: I Belong,” by Daniela D.