Many staffs struggle with theme because they treat it as a design decision instead of a storytelling system. A strong theme is not just a look. It is a concept that shapes organization, copy and visual consistency from cover to closing.
The 2025 President’s Collection training series highlights award-winning books that show how effective theme development works in practice.
Award-Winning Theme Examples from the 2025 President’s Collection
Lone Star, James Bowie High School, Austin, Texas
This book demonstrates the power of intentional pacing. The theme unfolds gradually through the opening pages, using consistent visual cues and layered copy to establish clarity before coverage begins. The result is a theme that feels thoughtful and fully developed.
Fusion, Hagerty High School, Oviedo, Florida
Hagerty’s theme stands out because it is rooted in school culture. By building the concept around language and traditions familiar to students, the theme feels authentic and personal while remaining consistent across sections and spreads.
Chieftain, Jupiter Community High School, Jupiter, Florida
Jupiter shows how theme richness elevates storytelling. Verbal and visual elements work together across openings, dividers and coverage pages, creating a narrative that evolves while staying cohesive.
Ayrie, Liberty North High School, Liberty, Missouri
This book commits fully to tone and personality. Bold graphic choices and consistent visual elements reinforce the theme throughout the book without sacrificing readability or organization.
The Lion, McKinney High School, McKinney, Texas
McKinney proves that restraint strengthens theme. A limited set of design elements is used consistently and creatively, resulting in a clean, confident book that never feels repetitive.
What You’ll Learn in this Theme Video
- How to develop purposeful themes tied to your school’s story
- How theme connects copy, design and coverage
- What separates strong books from award-winning ones
How to Use this Resource
Each video includes a paired lesson plan, making the series easy to use for:
- Bell ringers
- Independent practice
- Skill-building work sessions
- Sub plans
- Inspiration during production
Explore the 2025 President’s Collection training series and start building a theme that strengthens every page of your yearbook.
