The Local Arts Chairs’ Guide (see PDF below) contains the basic information a local PTA needs to know to host the Reflections Program at its school. Also contact your state PTA office for deadlines and state-specific rules and requirements before starting your planning.

Your PTA does not have to accept entries in all six arts areas, but you should be familiar with all rules and submission requirements for the arts areas you do promote and judge.
Promotion
Promotion is fundamental to ensuring that the Reflections Program has strong participation. Here are three steps to creating a promotional plan for your program.
 

1. Conduct a program analysis

• What do your members want/need/expect from the Reflections Program?
• What portions of your Reflections Program have been successful (and less successful) and why?
• What will motivate people to participate, and what might prevent them from doing so?
• What resources (money, volunteers, etc.) do you have to promote this program?

2. Choose a promotional strategy

Always keep in mind your target audience; who they are will determine what promotional methods are most appropriate. Also consider your goal. Are you looking to attract more Reflections Program participants in general? To reach a specific segment of the community? To increase participation in a particular arts area? Strategize accordingly.

3. Create a promotional plan

Outline what will be done, when it will begin and be completed, and who is responsible. Cover all stages of the program, from encouraging submissions to recognizing winners.

In your promotions, keep the following in mind:

• Include contact information on all Reflections Program fliers, posters, and other materials so people can ask questions, or even volunteer to help.
• Get the support of the school principal, teachers, parents, and community members. They can all be powerful allies in encouraging student submissions.
• Distribute Reflections Program deadlines and rules to all students at your school.
• Emphasize the current Reflections Program theme in your promotions and encourage student creativity. Submissions are judged primarily on how the student uses his or her artistic vision to portray the theme.

Local Arts Chairs’ Guide (PDF) [link]