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Photo By Zoe Yim

February 18, 2026

How Award-Winning Yearbooks Use Design with Purpose

Written By: Danielle Finch
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Strong yearbook design is not about decoration. It is about structure, clarity and intentional choices that support storytelling. When design is done well, it guides the reader, reinforces theme and elevates coverage without distracting from the content.

The 2025 President’s Collection Training Series features award-winning books that demonstrate how purposeful design choices strengthen every spread.

Award-Winning Design Examples from the 2025 President’s Collection

The Talon, Hendrickson High School, Pflugerville, Texas

This book stands out for its strong sense of hierarchy and structure. Grids are used consistently to organize content, while typography and spacing create clear entry points for readers. The result is a design system that feels polished and easy to navigate.

The Spectator, Liberty High School, Liberty, Missouri

Liberty’s design success comes from cohesion. Theme elements, color choices and typography work together across the book, creating visual consistency without sacrificing variety. Every spread feels connected to the larger story.

Silvertip, Rocky Mountain High School, Meridian, Idaho

This book demonstrates how clean design enhances storytelling. White space, balance and intentional photo placement allow content to breathe, giving stories room to stand on their own while still feeling visually engaging.

Crag, Turner Ashby High School, Bridgewater, Virginia

Turner Ashby shows how design can be both bold and controlled. Strong visual contrast and consistent layout decisions create impact while maintaining readability and flow throughout the book.

Raider, Gulliver Preparatory Middle School, Coral Gables, Florida

This middle school book proves that strong design principles apply at every level. Clear structure, consistent visual elements and thoughtful pacing result in spreads that feel sophisticated and intentional.

Crusader, River Ridge Middle School, New Port Richey, Florida 

River Ridge demonstrates how design consistency supports theme and coverage. Repeated layout patterns and graphic elements help unify the book while still allowing individual spreads to stand out.

What You’ll Learn in This Design Video 

  • How strong design structure improves readability and storytelling
  • How hierarchy, grids and spacing guide the reader
  • How cohesive visuals reinforce theme across the book
  • What separates clean design from award-winning design

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.

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