Reflections!

Not sure what reflections are? For over 50 years, this arts program has been a beacon for creativity in schools, thanks to our dedicated Local PTAs. Millions of students have explored their talents in dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and visual arts!

With a focus on positive recognition rather than competition, Reflections allows students of all ages and abilities to express themselves and share their unique stories.

Want to join in? Learn more and find the entry form at TXPTA.org: https://shorturl.at/6CEFT

All entries are due electronically by November 1st to programs@wolfranchpta.org, and make sure to include the student entry form found at the link above. Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation email!

Judging for our Wolf Ranch submissions will take place from November 4th - 10th, with the top entries announced on November 11th and sent to the Council/District level.

Pumpkin Decorating Contest

It’s pumpkin decorating time! Get ready for our exciting pumpkin decorating contest! Students can let their creativity shine by transforming their pumpkins into something they love—whether it’s a favorite character, hobby, or special item. We can’t wait to see your amazing creations!

Judging Date: October 31st by our student council.

Contest Rules:
- All pumpkins should be created at home.
- Artificial pumpkins are required (plastic or foam—no ceramics, please!).
- Choose any size pumpkin or assemble multiple pumpkins for your design, as long as you can carry it into school by yourself.
- Pumpkins may be painted and/or include additional materials—be creative!
- The pumpkin must be the main element of the project.
- Legibly write your full name and teacher's last name on the BOTTOM of your pumpkin/design where it cannot be seen.
- Please fill out an entry form and return it with the pumpkin.
- Pumpkins must be dropped off the morning of October 28th-30th. NO late entries will be allowed! PTA volunteers and Student Council members will be available from 7:30-8:00 a.m. to help students fill out an entry form (if not already completed) and place their pumpkins in the designated grade-level area on the learning stairs.

JUDGING
1. All pumpkins will be judged on October 31st by the student council.
2. Winners will be announced at the end of the day
3. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners for each grade level will receive a
certificate, ribbon, and small prize.

This is a STUDENT contest, NOT a parent project. Entries will be judged by grade level, so a winning Kindergarten project is NOT expected to be as detailed as a 5th grade winning project. Adult assistance may be necessary when certain materials (hot glue gun, etc.), but students are responsible for the majority of the work.

Pumpkins can be picked up before dismissal on the 31st or on November 4th. Any pumpkins remaining at the end of the day on November 4th will be thrown away
Let’s make this a spooktacular celebration! Happy decorating!

Pippin the Science Pioneer- Science Fair

Date: Thursday, March 6th, 2025
Project Turn-In: March 5th, 2025 at the learning stairs

We are excited to announce the Wolf Ranch Elementary Science Fair! This is a great opportunity for our students to explore scientific concepts and share their findings with classmates and the school community. Below are the details and instructions for participation.

Science Fair Topics

Students can choose from the following topics to base their projects on:

  1. Solids, Liquids, Gas
    Explore the properties and characteristics of solids, liquids, gas. How do solids change under different conditions?

  2. Heat and Light

Study the relationship between heat and light. How does heat impact the behavior of light sources, like lightbulbs or lasers? You could investigate how light intensity changes when different materials are heated or examine how heat affects the brightness and color of light.

  1. Push and Pull

Push and pull are basic forces that affect movement.         `

  1. Simple Machines
    Investigate the different types of simple machines (levers, pulleys, wheels and axles, etc.) and how they make work easier.

  2. Solar System
    Create a project about the solar system, planets, moons, or space exploration. What makes our solar system unique?

  3. Rock Types
    Learn about different types of rocks (igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic). How do they form, and what are their uses?

  4. Food Chain
    Examine the relationships between producers, consumers, and decomposers in an ecosystem. How does energy flow through a food chain?

Project Guidelines

  • Participation:
    Open to all students in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Students can work individually or with a partner.

  • Projects should be based on one of the listed topics.

  • Project Format:
    Students should prepare a visual display that includes:

    • A Title

    • Students Name

    • Grade level and Teacher Name

    • A Description of the project (What is your question or hypothesis? What did you learn?)

    • Materials Used

    • Results or Findings

    • Pictures, Diagrams, or Models (if applicable)

  • Project Size:
    Projects should be able to fit in a 3ft by 3ft space. Keep displays manageable so they can be easily set up on tables.

  • Prizes:
    Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each grade group (K-5th).

  • Judging Criteria:

    • Creativity and originality

    • Scientific accuracy and understanding

    • Presentation and visual appeal

    • Overall effort and quality

Important Dates

  • Project Turn-In: Wednesday, March 5th at the learning stairs

  • Science Fair Viewing & Presentation: Thursday, March 6th during STEM night. Families and guests are welcome to view the Science Fair exhibits in the gym.

Additional Tips for Success

  • Start Early: Begin planning and working on your project as soon as possible! You want to make sure you have time to test things, adjust, and prepare your display.

  • Be Creative: The more creative and unique your project is, the better! Think outside the box.

  • Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about your project or need help, ask your teacher or family members for advice. They’ll be happy to assist you.

We can't wait to see the amazing projects that our students will create. This is a great opportunity for our students to learn, explore, and share their discoveries with others!

If you have any questions, please contact president@wolfranchpta.org.