Yearbook vs. Newspaper:

What’s the Difference?

As a veteran yearbook adviser (this year will be my 15^th book, thank you very much!), I never imagined that I would advise a newspaper program. I always considered my counterparts in the newsroom to be, well, bored. I imagined them spending their planning periods poring over dull copy written by introverted students who lacked the creative spirit of my yearbook stars. How wrong I was.

Two years ago I assumed the role of newspaper adviser at my school. And while some days I can barely come up for air, I realized that I did not really have to change my cap. The fundamentals of journalism – accuracy, newsworthiness, deadlines, objectivity, and fairness are essential for all my students, regardless of which publication they work on. I have witnessed my yearbook students shifting their style to one that is more “newsy”, while my newspaper students explore feature pieces that have typically been the hallmark of yearbooks. I enjoy watching all my students experiment with color, design, and typography to create stunning pages that appeal to all kinds of readers. Yearbook students do more than design and newspaper students do more than write.

There is no question that overseeing both programs poses some challenges. Overlapping students, deadlines, and ideas often mean long hours and the occasional weekend work session. Nevertheless, it can be done. The key is to surround oneself with curious, creative school leaders who have stories to tell.

The process may be different, but the purpose is the same for both publications. All student journalists are engaging, inquisitive, and occasionally controversial. They are not afraid to ask questions and are able to see stories from different angles.

Am I busier than ever – well, yes. But I am growing as a journalism teacher by overseeing both publications. And while my first love was yearbook, I must admit that I have come to love advising the paper, as well. I encourage all yearbook advisers to take a fresh look at newspaper. There’s a lot to learn!

Annette Goldstein
Yearbook Advisor
Coral Springs High School