September 15-19 designated PTA Start the Arts Week to celebrate arts education and kick off the 2014-2015 National PTA Reflections program

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Sept. 15, 2014) — To raise awareness of the value the arts bring to a high-quality, comprehensive education, PTAs and schools nationwide will be hosting a variety of events and activities from Sept. 15 through 19 as part of PTA Start the Arts Week. The weeklong initiative is designed to celebrate the arts, spotlight the importance of arts education, and encourage participation in arts programs and activities. The timing of the week honors National Arts in Education Week as designated by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2010. PTA Start the Arts Week also kicks off the 2014-2015 National PTA Reflections® arts in education program.  

“Research shows that involvement in the arts is closely associated with students’ academic achievement, social and emotional development, and civic engagement. The arts as a core academic subject is essential for a complete and balanced education for all students,” said Otha Thornton, president of National PTA. “PTA has long supported the arts, and it is a top priority of the association to ensure that all children have access to arts programs and classes. PTA Start the Arts Week and the National PTA Reflections program provide students the opportunity to experience and be involved in the arts.”

Throughout the week, PTAs and schools will host events and activities for students and families focusing on various aspects of the National PTA Reflections program and based on the 2014-2015 Reflections theme: “The World Would Be a Better Place if…”

The National PTA Reflections program encourages students of all ages and abilities to explore and be involved in the arts in an educational way. Through the program, National PTA and PTAs across the country urge students in preschool through grade 12 to create and submit original works of art in the medium of their choice — dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography and visual arts — reflecting on a specific theme. There also is a special artist division option for students with disabilities to ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in the program. Students are recognized each year for their artistic ingenuity to bring the theme to life in a way that is personal and meaningful.

Since 1969, the National PTA Reflections program has inspired millions of students to explore their talents and be involved in the arts by creating works for fun and recognition. For more information about PTA Start the Arts Week and the 2014-2015 Reflections program, visit PTA.org/Reflections. 

About National PTA

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.