Whether it’s sports, dances, or events, our school’s history is encapsulated in the Yearbook. The most common misconception of the class is that it’s just about producing a book. In reality, students learn elements of design, business, marketing, and teamwork skills, and how to produce a living document that celebrates the great memories and achievements of the school.
Many students are unaware of the significance of this class since they believe it to be “only” an elective, but in truth it is an Art elective that fulfills graduation and UC placement requirements. According to the K-12 California Arts Standard, this type of education must boost academic achievement, promote social-emotional development, and proficiency in technology related to creative classwork. Yearbook checks off all the boxes of an art class teaching layout, design, negative space, color theory, font, line, angle, photography, and so much more!
After realizing how much art was involved in the class, Ms. Denise Weuve, the yearbook advisor, knew she had to make a change and give it the title it deserved.
“In this class, you have to learn not only how to be an artist yourself, but also how to work as a team,” says Weuve. Due to the important aspects of the class, Weuve went on to get an UC approval for a VAPA credit, officially making Yearbook an art for 10 years now.
Students are encouraged to join this class because of the sense of belonging that comes with it. Along with the true sense of collaboration yearbook instills in you, it also provides a chance to see yourself represented on and outside of campus. Becoming a Yearbook Staff member allows one to provide input in the school’s community and walk out knowing that they weren’t just at school, but a part of school.
Not only does Yearbook give students a greater connection to the school, but it also correlates to the future of their career. Every job out there will require one to communicate whether it be via email, social media, and in person. This class teaches exactly how to do so while being personable at the same time, in addition to the guidance of marketing and business qualities. Yearbook creates social media content via video and is taught how to market them appropriately. It’s the closest class I can think of on campus that puts into practice business skills we will use in our futures.
Yearbook is so much more than words and pictures in a book. It’s about the design skills, community, and the legacy you create throughout the year. When considering what class will expand all aspects of creativity and connection, you have every reason to join Yearbook.
