Sward Fifth-Grader Wins National PTA's Reflections

OAK LAWN, IL -- A Sward fifth-grader has placed in the National PTA’s Reflections program that helps students explore their own thoughts, feelings and ideas, develop artistic literacy. Justin Canvin became the first Sward School and Dist. 123 student to go to the nationals.

The theme of the 2019-2020 program is Look Within. Students submit their completed works of art in one or all of the available arts categories on the local level. Justin’s winning photograph, a portrait of his father’s hands, took top honors in Illinois and placed in the nationals.

Justin wrote to describe the picture:

“What do you see is this picture? Some people see dirty boots, construction vest or dirty hands. What I see is working hands. These hands are my Dad’s hands and he works on a construction site ever day for my family and me. Everyday these hands work to earn money for food, shelter and clothing. They also give jugs, play catch, give pats on the bank and so much more. Everything these hands provide I couldn’t ask for anything more as a child. I hope tou have hero hands in your life! My dad is my hero!”

This isn’t Justin’s first go-round on the national level. In 2017 he advanced but didn’t place, his mother Jamie Canvin told Patch

“Justin participated again this year and we just found out that he placed in nationals,” Jamie said. “Such a huge honor and the only student in Illinois for photography that placed.”

Justin’s photograph will be displayed at different events throughout the year.