The spirit of creativity and community was on full display recently as the Murray PTA Council honored the talented student winners of the 2025-2026 Reflections program. Under the resonant theme "I Belong!," students from across the Murray City School District explored what it means to find their place in the world through a diverse array of artistic mediums.

The ceremony, which featured Superintendent Covington, celebrated the achievement of students who received the Award of Excellence—a distinction that clears the path for these young artists to move forward and compete at the Region level.

And the Winners Are…

Click here to see each of the winners, their schools, and categories they were recognized in.

A Legacy of Artistic Excellence

The Reflections program is a long-standing national tradition within the PTA, providing millions of students the opportunity to create and be recognized for original works of art. Murray PTA has a proud history of participation in this program, consistently fostering an environment where Career and Technical Education (CTE) and the fine arts can thrive side-by-side.

By encouraging students to interpret a specific theme, the program helps participants develop their unique voices and build confidence in their creative abilities.

The 2025-2026 Theme: "I Belong!"

This year’s theme, "I Belong!," prompted students to reflect on their identity, their families, their schools, and the natural world. The entries showcased a profound depth of thought, with titles touching on themes of found families, the beauty of nature, cultural heritage, and the importance of inclusion. By the Numbers: Categories and Recognition A total of 49 Awards of Excellence were presented across seven distinct categories, representing every level of the district from Primary to High School.

A Bright Future

The success of this year’s Reflections program highlights the vital role the arts play in the Murray City School District. As these Award of Excellence winners advance to the next stage of competition, they carry with them the support of their schools—including Grant, Horizon, McMillan, Parkside, and Viewmont Elementary schools, as well as Hillcrest and Riverview Junior Highs and Murray High School. Congratulations to all the participants for their courage in sharing their perspectives and for reminding us all that, indeed, we belong.