City PTSA - Welcome

Students, it's time to Start the Art! Continue City's tradition of great representation at this statewide art competition and program designed to remind us about the importance of the arts, in our schools and in our lives! We announced the theme in August, (Beauty Is...) but it's time to begin your Reflections Art projects in earnest - the deadline is the last day of school before Christmas break! (December 18.) Download the Rules and Entry Form PDF listed below and make sure your work meets all the rules. And check with your TEACHERS to see if extra credit is available for your submission.
This years' judges have been arranged for the following categories: Literature, Visual Art, Photography, and Music Composition. We will only open a Video category if at least three people commit to preparing work by the deadline.

Submissions must be received at the office no later than end of school day Dec. 18, with three attached and completed copies of your entry form, and in the case of photos or visual art, a cardboard & tape "portfolio" to protect your work. Literature and Music submissions may be submitted in a large envelope/and or folder. AN ARTIST STATEMENT must accompany the work, as this year the State of Michigan competition will not accept entries without one.
Click here to download the complete info package: Download file

Please read the entire packet. If you have questions, you may search past Reflections information at http://www.cityptsa.com/NEWS/reflections. If you still have questions, email katem@what-if.com.

Best wishes and have fun!

Posted by Kate at 04:49 PM | Permalink

About Reflections 2009-2010 Theme 'Beauty is,,,'

Each year, the PTA Reflections Program challenges students to create art inspired by a specific theme. Themes are selected from hundreds of ideas submitted by students to the PTA Reflections Program Theme Search.
Past themes have included: 'Exploring New Beginnings...', 'If I Could Give the World a Gift...', 'A Different Kind of Hero...', and most recently, 'I Can Make a Difference by...' and 'Wow!'
The 2009-2010 theme is 'Beauty is...'

Continue reading "Reflections Project - 'Beauty is,,,'" »

Posted by ralstond@grps.k12.mi.us at 01:59 PM | Permalink

"nuf said!

Be in school tomorrow! The September count represents 75% of the per pupil amount we receive from the state. The other 25% comes after the February count.

The legislature is about to take $218. from GRPS (yes, that includes City) per student. DON'T LET THEM TAKE MORE!!!

See you in school tomorrow.

Thanks!

Wayne Glatz
City PTSA president 2009-10

Posted by Wayne Glatz at 03:38 PM | Permalink

About Reflections

The PTA's Reflections Program is a popular arts program that gives kids an opportunity to create works of art for fun and recognition. City PTSA is calling for entries from local students in grades 7-12, as well as help from local parents to organize and coordinate the program.

In its 40-year history, the PTA Reflections Program has encouraged millions of students across the country, in preschool through grade 12, to explore their artistic talents. Children are encouraged to create original works of art based on the year's theme.

The 2009-2010 Reflections Program theme is

Beauty Is...

The entries are placed in six categories:

- Dance Choreography
- Film/Video Production
- Literature
- Musical Composition
- Photography
- Visual Arts

PTA believes that all children deserve a quality arts education. Studies show that there is a direct link between the arts and student achievement. Students who study the arts develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving techniques, and a drive for excellence.

Continue to read Frequently Asked Questions...

Continue reading "REFLECTIONS TOPIC ANNOUNCED for 2009-2010!" »

Posted by Kate at 08:35 AM | Permalink

Oana has won $50. Christmas cash for her role as an "arts agent" nominating Christina Le for the Reflections Art Program. Luckily for Oana, Christina submitted her entry on time! Submissions to Reflections are now in the adjudication process. Winners will be announced in late January. Good luck and thank you to all the students who've helped Start the Art at City!

Posted by Kate at 11:10 AM | Permalink

All students with Reflections entries need to deliver them to the office Monday, Dec. 15, by 2 p.m. in the collection box. Here are a few notes to help make sure YOUR entry is ready for judging:
1. Make sure you've completed the ENTRY FORM for EACH submission. If possible, we'd like 3 copies, but you will not be disqualified if you do not submit in triplicate. PLEASE NOTE you need a parent's signature and that you MUST WRITE AN ARTIST STATEMENT ABOUT YOUR WORK this year. Remember to connect it to the WOW theme.
2. If you do not have an envelope, there is a clip board in the office with large envelopes on it for your use.
3. If you are submitting original artwork, please make sure your entry is attached to the BACK but that it can be removed for copying.
4. Remember, no lamination for artworks!
5. Please make sure your entry complies with the ACCEPTED DIGITAL FORMATS outline on the rule sheet.
6. If a teacher has offered extra credit for your submission, INCLUDE THIS INFORMATION so we confirm receipt.
7. If you'd like an email confirming receipt of your entry, PLEASE ATTACH A NOTE.

Later this week we will announce the Winner of the Arts Agent draw for $50!
Good luck, City Artsies! And thanks for letting your talent SHINE.

Posted by Kate at 07:09 AM | Permalink

Calling all artsy students...it's time to let your talent shine! The PTSA's Reflections Art program is your opportunity to paint, write, photograph, choreograph, compose music or produce a film or video in response to this year's theme of "Wow." New this year is the requirement that EACH entry is accompanied by an "Artist's Statement" that helps judges understand what inspired your work and how it relates to the WOW theme. Winning entries in each category will be submitted to the Michigan State competition and the artists will have a chance to have their work reviewed at the National level. In addition to local recognition and a record of your accomplishment on your file, one entrant from City will be chosen for the Outstanding Entry Award for $100 cash prize. Start the art this weekend and WOW us!
To get started, download the 2008 rules and entry form. Finish your piece according to the rules, attach the form in triplicate, and be sure to include your Artist's Statement. Bring your work to the Office at 2 p.m. December 15 for submission. Ask your teachers in related subjects for extra credit and we'll confirm receipt of your entry!
Follow this link to download rules and forms.
Email Kate McCrindle katem@what-if.com if you have any questions.

Posted by Kate at 07:04 AM | Permalink

If you have, THANKS and GOOD LUCK on the cash draw coming up after Dec. 8th! If you haven't, there's still time. Read the full post in the REFLECTIONS category link in the right column, where you can find RULES and ENTRY FORMS for this great Arts program. Here's a quick refresher course on how to enter the draw for "Agent Cash":
1. Think of someone you know (yourself included) who: dances, draws, writes, composes music, makes videos or takes photographs. You may choose multiple people.
2. Fill out a ballot (available at the office counter) to nominate yourself or your friend(s) as "Most Likely To Art." Make sure YOUR email and THE ARTIST'S email is on the ballot.
3. Make sure the nominee SUBMITS their entry to the Reflections program by Dec.8.
4. YOUR name as the nominator will be entered in the "agent" lottery for a cash prize of $50, which will be drawn and awarded at the holiday break assembly. Even if you nominate yourself, you will be eligible for the prize drawing, provided your entry is submitted by the deadline and meets all the division rules.

Posted by Kate at 10:03 AM | Permalink

The Reflections Competition is back for 2008-2009! This year's theme to which artists who paint, write, draw, choreograph, compose, make videos or take pictures respond is:
WOW...

So, what makes you say wow? What can you create that will make the Reflections judges think "Wow!" for this year?

PARENTS -- Encourage your children to CREATE an original photograph, artwork, literature, musical composition, dance choreography or film/video production inspired by this year's theme: "WOW..."

STUDENTS -- Read the rules for your category of choice online, download the submission form, and START YOUR ART for submission BY DEC. 08. Nominate yourself as well using the ballots in the office (see the post about the Arts Agent lottery.) All grades are welcome. Juniors and Seniors, remember that this is an opportunity to DISTINGUISH yourself in your field for college applications.

TEACHERS -- Encourage your students to express their talents by offering extra credit, if appropriate to your curriculum, or extra support developing their response to the theme.

PARTICIPATE: By supporting the REFLECTIONS celebration, you are not only celebrating creativity, diversity and talent. You are also communicating to our legislatures that the Arts enhance learning and promote student achievement. Did you know that studies show a positive correlation between enrollment in arts courses and SAT math and verbal scores?

To read NEW RULES FOR 2008-2009, visit the REFLECTIONS "download rules" submenu on the News Sidebar.

Posted by Kate at 12:57 PM | Permalink

To commemorate National Start the Art Week and kick off the 2008-2009 Reflections Art Competition, we're giving all City students a chance to win cash while helping City's talent shine. Even if you're not an artist, YOU can be an "Arts Agent." Here's how:
1. Think of someone you know (yourself included) who: dances, draws, writes, composes music, makes videos or takes photographs. You may choose multiple people.
2. Fill out a ballot (available at the office counter starting Oct. 6) to nominate yourself or your friend(s) as "Most Likely To Art." Make sure YOUR email and THE ARTIST'S email is on the ballot.
3. Make sure the nominee SUBMITS their entry to the Reflections program by Dec.8. RULES FOR SUBMISSIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD HERE. All submissions are collected in a large box in the office between DEC. 1 AND DEC. 8 only.
4. YOUR name as the nominator will be entered in the "agent" lottery for a cash prize of $50, which will be drawn and awarded at the holiday break assembly. Even if you nominate yourself, you will be eligible for the prize drawing, provided your entry is submitted by the deadline and meets all the division rules.

BUT WAIT...There's more. You'll have a SECOND chance to win a $50 agent award if the person you nominated is selected by the Reflections Community judging panel for the new OUTSTANDING ENTRANT award, which is a $100 additional award given to ONE of all the artists who are selected for submission to the STATE Reflections competition. In the event that several people have nominated the same artist, a drawing will be held to determine the winner.
Visit the REFLECTIONS section of the message center for more information about the program, and Start The Art today!

Posted by Kate at 12:16 PM | Permalink

Congratulations are in order for eight extraordinary City High-Middle students whose entries to the maiden Reflections Art Program have won our school-wide competition and have proceeded to the Michigan State Reflections competition for consideration. Our winners will be acknowledged locally on March 15, 2008 during the City PTSA Auction live auction. Turn out to see the kind of programs your donations support!
State winners will be announced and acknowledged April 19, so stay tuned.
Special thanks to our great judges, Steve Talaga, Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk, Tricia Macdonald and Sue Stauffacher. (More on the judges at the continued entry.) Kudos also to super enthusiastic teachers (such as Ms. Miske) who "inspired" our kids to get on the court.

Without further ado, the winners are:

LITERATURE
Award of Excellence: Emily Oxford, for short story "Better Silent than Dead"
Award of Merit: Emily Riippa, Gr. 10, for short story "Unconventional"
Award of Merit: Mike McCrindle, Gr. 11, for poem "The Difference Made"
Award of Merit: Rachel Schrotenboer, Gr. 11, for poem Untitled

MUSIC COMPOSITION
Award of Excellence (tie): Alec Spaulding, Gr. 10, composition for piano, "Ripples in a Pond"
Award of Excellence (tie): Mike McCrindle, Gr. 11, contemporary multi-instrument score "Simple Machines"
Award of Merit: Stuart Smith, (instrumental part), Gr. 12, contemporary multi-instrument score "Dipsomania"

VISUAL ART
Award of Merit: Alejandro Potter, Gr. 8, for pencil drawing "New York, September 11, 2001"
Award of Merit: Oana Damacus, Gr. 10, for pencil and charcoal drawing "Love Makes All the Difference"

Fabulous job, guys and gals! Congrats!

Continue reading "REFLECTIONS WINNERS ANNOUNCED" »

Posted by Kate at 02:59 PM | Permalink

The Reflections Program is happy to announce it has received outstanding submissions in the Literature and Music Composition categories, which are now in the judging process. A big THANK YOU to the talented students and the teachers who supported them!

The program did not, however, receive any submissions in the following categories: VISUAL ART, PHOTOGRAPHY, FILM/VIDEO and DANCE. Yet we know that City is rife with talent in these arts, and as busy as you've been, you now have TWO WEEKS FREE to express yourself. For this reason, and with the grace of our judges, we are extending a SECOND CHANCE CALL FOR ENTRIES in these categories, with very specific submission rules to accommodate the lack of preparation time for judges.

NEW DEADLINE: January 8th, 2 p.m. Delivered TO THE FILE BOX IN THE OFFICE

NEW IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENT: Each entry must now use your STUDENT ID NUMBER on materials for quick cross-referencing so that we can get the material to the judges.

NEW MULTIPLES RULE: MUST SUBMIT THREE COPIES: Three signed copies of the ENTRY FORM with your STUDENT NUMBER on it in a prominent location. We will also need THREE COPIES OF DVDs for the FILM category and DANCE category, with only your STUDENT NUMBER identifying it. We do NOT need multiple copies of original artwork or photography.

- Happy holidays, and have an ARTFUL reprieve : )

Posted by Kate at 12:11 PM | Permalink

TEACHERS! Please take a minute to remind students to submit their REFLECTIONS art entries by Dec. 21, 2007. If you are giving extra credit for submission, email katem@what-if.com to receive an ENTRY CONFIRMATION list for your records. This will be produced prior to January 8.

ENTRANTS! Make sure you're ready to let your artistic talent shine and get your entries in on time. Good luck!

Posted by Kate at 11:12 AM | Permalink

If you plan on entering REFLECTIONS and missed the Reflections meeting Wed. and are planning to enter, here's what you need to know:
1. Make sure you review the rules for your category. You may submit in multiple categories.
2. All visual art is 2-dimensional only. No sculpture accepted.
3. There is now a Reflections Drop Off Box in the office beneath the PTSA mailbox. It is a large file box marked "Reflections." You may submit your work early.
4. Make sure your entry form is attached - use the form available for download online at http://www.cityptsa.com/NEWS/2007/10/rules_and_entry_form_for_refle.html
5. Protect your entry with envelopes or plastic covering but not shrinkwrap or lamination.
6. If possible, submit an EXTRA copy -- eg. audio, video CD or DVD, literature, photograph submissions. For original artwork, this is not necessary. This will help us in our prep time. Extra copies of your submission form would also help us, but are not required. Do make sure we have ALL your contact information.
7. Consider submitting an Artist Statement as your work will be shown in the future and viewers will want to know a little bit about you. You may download tips on writing an artist's statement (all mediums) and samples in the extended entry of this post. (Read more).
8. Reflections performing entrants (e.g. dance, music composition or recital of work) are invited to audition for the City Talent show series scheduled for January Contact Ms. Peterson at City a.s.a.p. to arrange an audition time.
9. Please email: katem@what-if.com once you've dropped off your artwork so I can confirm your submission. DEADLINE IS DEC. 21 BY END OF SCHOOL DAY, NO EXCEPTIONS.
10. Celebrate the Arts at City and let your light shine! Don't miss the entry deadline.

Continue reading "REFLECTIONS UPDATE FOR ENTRANTS!" »

Posted by Kate at 09:37 AM | Permalink

There will be a brief meeting Wed., Nov. 28, at 2 p.m. in the Library at City for all entrants to the Reflections Art Program. Artist statements will be discussed, followed by a brief question and answer period. Note that many of the entrant expressions of interest have not included email addresses. Please attend whether or not you've received an email invitation. New entrants are also welcome. The Dec. 21 deadline approaches. Contact katem@what-if.com for further information.

Posted by Kate at 10:25 AM | Permalink

Artists, (and poets, writers, photographers, dancers, musicians and cinematograhers...) start your engines! The 2007-2008 Reflections deadline, Dec. 21, is a mere month away! So far we've received an EXCELLENT response from students intending to compete. It's not too late to register your intent, which helps us determine the number of helpers we need for judging preparation. In the mean time:

1. Make sure you download the RULES for the category(s) in which you wish to submit. Your artwork MUST comply with the rules to qualify for submission to the statewide competion. Some of these rules can be quite detailed in some genres.

2. Start preparing your artwork! Give yourself the time to let your talent shine! City will share our creative verve come Auction Night (March 15, 2008) and at a special ceremony next fall!

3. Begin to fill out the ENTRY form provided as a download online. We will need THREE COPIES with your submission.

4. Consider writing the optional "Artist's Statement" about your work and the interpretation of the theme: "I Can Make a Difference By..."

5. Watch your Pegasus Pulse next week for an announcement for an ENTRANT'S MEETING to be held the week following Thanksgiving (time T.B.A. upon confirmation with the school.)

6. If you do not receive a personal invitation to the meeting by email, make sure that we've received the registration of your interest and have your correct information on file. Do this by emailing: katem@what-if.com, and include your grade, your competition category and contact information.

Have a fabulous holiday next week and remember to start the art!

Posted by Kate at 12:35 PM | Permalink

The Reflections Art Program is off to a great start. If you haven't yet registered your intent to enter, see a teacher next week. In November, the sign up sheets will be collected and students contacted for a post-Thanksgiving Artist Statement tips session and Question/Answer meeting. Don't forget to start your art. Also, if you're in the photography division, the correct Rule Set is now posted for download. The deadline is December 21st, 2007, no exceptions. For information, contact Kate McCrindle, katem@what-if.com

Posted by Kate at 10:59 AM | Permalink

The Reflections Arts program is now open for registration! Let us know if you intend to submit your visual artwork, photography, musical composition, dance choreography, literature or film/video animation. Sign up sheets are available in Classrooms at City. Next month, we'll host a meeting for registered artists to give you tips on creating an Artists' statement and going over the rules. Final deadline for completed artwork and entry forms is December 21st. Start the Art at City by signing up today! For questions, contact Chair Kate McCrindle at katem@what-if.com

Posted by Kate at 09:19 AM | Permalink

Help the maiden voyage of the Reflections Program at City High Middle when you "steal this poster!"

Please print and distribute Reflections posters to fellow City students or City parents.
Thanks for your help!
To volunteer for the Spring Reflections Gallery Gala, contact Kate McCrindle at katem@what-if.com
We'd ESPECIALLY like to hear from student council types such as Sam CP : )

Download Student Poster file
Download Parent Poster file

Posted by Kate at 03:12 PM | Permalink

The State and National PTAs use the Reflections program as both a tool to recognize the outstanding talents of our youths and as an opportunity to express the value of arts education within our schools. Read this summary by the national PTA and the Americans For the Arts organization to consider the influence of the oft under-funded arts on the lives of our students. After you've read it, share it!

Continue reading "Reflections as an Arts Advocacy Tool" »

Posted by Kate at 03:03 PM | Permalink

The PTA's Reflections Program is a popular arts program that gives kids an opportunity to create works of art for fun and recognition. City PTSA is calling for entries from local students in grades 7-12, as well as help from local parents to organize and coordinate the program.
In its nearly 40-year history, the PTA Reflections Program has encouraged millions of students across the country, in preschool through grade 12, to explore their artistic talents. Children are encouraged to create original works of art based on the year's theme.

The 2007-2008 Reflections Program theme is

I Can Make a
Difference by...

- Dance Choreography
- Film/Video Production
- Literature
- Musical Composition
- Photography
- Visual Arts

PTA believes that all children deserve a quality arts education. Studies show that there is a direct link between the arts and student achievement. Students who study the arts develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving techniques, and a drive for excellence.
Continue to read Frequently Asked Questions...

Continue reading "About Reflections" »

Posted by Kate at 02:36 PM | Permalink

Welcome to the Reflections Rules and Entry form download area for use by students, parents or teachers supporting arts in education through participation in the Reflections competition. Follow this link for downloads and details.

Continue reading "Rules and Entry Form For Reflections" »

Posted by Kate at 02:20 PM | Permalink

To Celebrate the national PTA's "Start The Art Week Oct. 8-12", the City PTSA is excited to introduce our City High Middle REFLECTIONS competition. This is the first time City's participated in this STATE and NATIONAL celebration of student TALENT.
Here's how you can help launch this maiden voyage for state and national recognition of our tremendously talented students:

PARENTS -- Encourage your children to CREATE an original photograph, artwork, literature, musical composition, dance choreography or film/video production inspired by this year's theme: "I CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE BY..."

STUDENTS -- Read the rules for your category of choice online, download the submission form, and START YOUR ART for submission by December 21st. All grades are welcome. Juniors and Seniors, remember that this is an opportunity to DISTINGUISH yourself in your field for college applications.

TEACHERS -- Encourage your students to express their talents by offering extra credit, if appropriate to your curriculum, or extra support developing their response to the theme.

PARTICIPATE: By supporting the REFLECTIONS celebration, you are not only celebrating creativity, diversity and talent. You are also communicating to our legislatures that the Arts enhance learning andpromote student achievement. Did you know that studies show a positive correlation between enrollment in arts courses and SAT math and verbal scores?

Read all about the REFLEECTIONS categories, submission forms, rules, and the value of Arts in Education online in the REFLECTIONS category of the Message Center.
For more information, contact katem@what-if.com

Posted by Kate at 01:44 PM | Permalink