Senior quotes are a cherished tradition in many high school yearbooks, but they can become a yearbook adviser’s worst nightmare. Here’s why:
PROBLEMS WITH SENIOR QUOTES
- Inappropriate Content: High school students often push boundaries, and senior quotes can include hidden inappropriate meanings. It’s challenging to catch all innuendos, and mistakes can be costly and embarrassing.
- Not Journalistic: Yearbook senior quotes don’t meet journalistic standards like impact, timeliness, or usefulness. They lack news value and don’t contribute to the yearbook’s overall quality.
- Limited Space: Yearbooks have limited space, and senior quotes can take up room that could be used for more meaningful content like photos or class memories.
- Participation Issues: Not all students submit quotes, leading to awkward spacing and design challenges.
- Limited Resources: Many schools don’t have enough staff to manage and edit senior quotes, adding strain to an already busy team.
ALTERNATIVES TO SENIOR QUOTES
Instead of senior quotes, consider these yearbook ideas:
- Senior Features: Highlight seniors’ accomplishments, clubs, and activities.
- Favorite Memories: Create spreads showcasing seniors’ favorite memories, teachers, and events.
GUIDELINES FOR SENIOR QUOTES
If you must include senior quotes, set clear guidelines:
- No profanities, slang, or inappropriate content.
- No references to drugs, alcohol, or other prohibited topics.
- Ensure quotes are properly cited and free of errors.
ELIMINATING SENIOR QUOTES
To phase out senior quotes, get support from your administration and explain the potential issues. Offer alternatives that focus on celebrating students’ high school experiences in a positive way.
While senior quotes are a beloved tradition, they pose significant risks and challenges. By focusing on more meaningful content, high school yearbooks can better commemorate students’ experiences without the potential pitfalls of senior quotes.
