Fifth-grader Rachelle Griffith from Forest Road School was recently presented with the New York State PTA Award of Merit for her dance choreography titled “Coat of Many Colors,” for the intermediate category of the 2016-2017 National PTA Reflections Contest. The ceremony, “Reflections Art Roadshow” was held in in Albany and celebrated the STATE winners of the contest. 

PTA Reflections is a nationally acclaimed student recognition program to encourage artistic creativity in the classroom and at home. The theme, “What Is Your Story” encouraged students throughout the state to share their own stories through a variety of art mediums. Griffith submitted a video of her dance as a fourth-grader. Her dance was inspired by the sacrifices that her and her family have had to make and her appreciation for what she has. 

Griffith’s dance is included on the PTA Reflections website and while in Albany, was available for viewing by all who attended the ceremony.  

“Forest Road was extremely proud to have a student make it to the state level of this competition,” said Principal Erin Malone. “Rachelle is a well-rounded young lady who created and executed the choreography that ‘wowed’ the judges. Her grace, creativity and enthusiasm are remarkable. Forest Road is very lucky to have her as part of our learning community.”