Each year students from schools around the country compete in the PTA Reflections Program. To participate, students must submit an original work of photography, visual artwork, literature or musical composition. The work submitted by the students must reflect the theme designated for that year’s competition. The theme for the 2004-2005 program is “A Different Kind of Hero.”
The Reflections Program also provides an opportunity to increase community awareness of the importance of the arts in education.
Fort Hunt Elementary is one of only eight schools in the metropolitan area that partners with The Kennedy Center through its Changing Education Through the Arts Program. While the arts are integrated into all areas of the curriculum at Fort Hunt Elementary, the Reflections Program affords students an opportunity to create and be recognized for their individual efforts.
Almost 60 works of art displaying the students’ varied visions of a hero were entered into the contest. Nine first-place winners were selected to advance for competition at the County PTA level.
Six of those entries also received awards from the County Council in their age divisions: Eric Costantino and Erin Slatery received the Outstanding Interpretation Award (1st place) for their musical compositions; Lucas Stewart and Erin Slatery each received the Award of Excellence (2nd place) for their photographs; and Emma Anderson and Erin Slatery received the Award of Merit (3rd place) for their visual arts entries.
The PTA is awaiting further results for the musical compositions, which have been forwarded to the District competition between the winners from Fairfax County, Arlington County and the City of Alexandria.
Carol Coose, principal, is thankful for the support of many local businesses; the students were rewarded with prizes and a reception. Particular thanks go to Roseina’s, 7-Eleven Stores, Dale Photo, Krispy Kreme, Alexandria Music Company, and Michaels Arts & Crafts for their sponsorship of the Reflections Program at Fort Hunt.