Arty Spartans Shine In PTA Reflections Arts Program, 3 Students Advance To National Finals

OAK LAWN, IL—Students at Oak Lawn Community High School are earning statewide recognition for their creativity and artistic expression, with several advancing in the prestigious Illinois PTA Reflections program under this year’s theme, “I Belong.”

The Reflections program, now in its 55th year, is a nationally recognized arts initiative that encourages students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 to explore their talents in various arts, including dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and visual arts. Each year, more than 300,000 students across the country participate by submitting original works inspired by a unifying theme. Entries are judged based on interpretation, creativity, and artistic technique.

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OLCHS saw an impressive 37 student submissions this year. Of those, 15 advanced to the state level, with four students receiving honorable mention distinctions. As an added highlight, three students have progressed to the regional level and will now compete nationally.

The students advancing to the state competition include Peyton Marshall, Erin Sprull-Pennington, Josiah Bedolla, Zayra Bustamante, Skye Meyer, Hannah Trigg, Tahj Balock, Molly Castellano, Isabel Juarez, Emily Prado, David Sosa, Ava Urbaniec, Lilian Ibarra, Alanah Martinez, and Addison Clark.

Honorable Mention awards were presented to Jake Herpich, Weronica Makary, Mikayla Vazquez, and Nathaniel Vega.

Leading the group, Addison Clark, Peyton Marshall, and Emily Prado have advanced to the regional level and will move on to national judging. National winners are scheduled to be announced on May 1.

The achievements highlight not only the artistic talents of Oak Lawn High School students but also their ability to interpret and express the powerful theme of belonging through multiple forms of creative expression.

“School officials and community members alike are celebrating the students’ success and eagerly awaiting the results of the national competition,” PTSA President Care Herpich said.