How Yearbook Class Turns Students into Historians & Designers

At Skyline High School, Yearbook class is more than just an elective — it’s a high-stakes, fast-paced experience that challenges students to think critically and work collaboratively, while creating a lasting record of their school’s history. During Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, we recognize how hands-on, real-world learning opportunities help students build valuable skills for the future. 

“In Yearbook, students are the historians,” says teacher Ben Blakney. “Understanding the role and the importance you play in your world is a lot bigger than you realize. When you land in a position like this, you might feel anxious, but you also have an opportunity to rise to the challenge. By the end of the class, you’ll have a finished product that proves what you’ve accomplished.” 

Creating a yearbook is no small task. With tight deadlines and no second chances, students must learn to adapt quickly. “Flexibility is key,” Blakney explains. “There are no prerequisites for this class, so students come in with a lot of different skills and energy levels. My goal is to help them channel that energy—whether it’s in photography, writing, or layout design—so they can find their strengths and contribute to a larger vision.” 

Beyond flexibility, students build resilience. “One of the biggest takeaways from this class is the mindset of ‘maybe I don’t know this, but I can learn this,’” Blakney says. “That’s something they can carry into any profession.” The third, and perhaps most important skill, is teamwork. “You can’t be solo in a class like this,” he adds. “Because of the variety of responsibilities and the stakes, students learn that they need to contribute to a team and work toward a common goal.” 

Yearbook students develop a combination of technical and soft skills that prepare them for a wide range of careers. The foundation of the class, and of storytelling, rests on three pillars: photography, layout, and journalism. Some students thrive in Associated Press Style writing, mastering the art of interviewing and storytelling. Others are drawn to photography — capturing moments with action, emotion and composition in mind. And for those who love visual organization, layout design provides the opportunity to bring all the elements together into a cohesive, compelling spread. 

Junior Caris Hooppaw enjoys the creative aspect of yearbook, particularly in balancing different design elements and explains, “I love using dark and light photos to create a design that is cohesive and aesthetically pleasing.” 

For others, the class builds confidence in unexpected ways. “At first, going into classrooms and speaking with teachers in a different way than just as a student felt intimidating,” says sophomore Amara Riana. “Now, it’s much more comfortable.” Sophomore Evan Lin says the class requires managing time effectively, and junior Quinn Newman shares that keeping up with yearbook deadlines has strengthened organization and time management skills. 

Yearbook isn’t just about documenting memories — it’s about learning the skills that will last long after high school. No matter what career a student pursues after high school, the lessons of adaptability, teamwork, and perseverance will stay with them. And at the end of the year, they’ll hold in their hands a tangible, lasting testament to their work — one that will be treasured for generations.