Yearbook sales at Mason City High School are breaking records. Overall, 226 books have been sold, putting the staff more than halfway toward their goal of 375.
“Most of those sales have been online, which is huge,” said Stephanie Scholl, the yearbook advisor. “It is exciting to see students taking advantage of the convenience of online ordering.”
As of April 6th, more than 110 yearbooks have been sold online, which is a huge increase from last year’s 20 online purchases.
Theme
This year’s theme, “Just Wingin’ It,” reflects the unpredictable and fun experience of being a student. Each page contains bright doodles, creative layouts, and school colors, celebrating the mistakes, successes, and everyday moments that define high school life. “We wanted this year’s book to really reflect the creativity and personality of the students,” Scholl said.
Student editor, Kate Kotta, says the attention to detail is what makes this year’s book special.“In past years, we struggled with making every page stand out. This year, we focused on the details instead of just the overall picture. I think that is what will make the biggest impact.”
Photographer Kendall Sberall added, “If you compare it to last year’s book, it is completely different. It is more design-focused, more intentional. It just looks fun.”
Everyone has a role
As chief photographer, Sberall’s day revolves around the camera. She spends hours at games and rehearsals, looking for candid moments that show students’ personalities. “It is not just about taking pictures,” Kendall said, “it is about telling a story through images, capturing memories that will last forever.”
Kotta says she spent a lot of time editing layouts and fixing grammar, “I just kind of bounce around between pages,” said Kotta, “making sure fonts match, colors flow. There is nothing like opening the finished pages and seeing how everything came together. All the long hours and hard work are worth it.”
For both Kotta and Sberall, the yearbook has provided opportunities to be creative, “I love being able to express myself through the pages, going to games, and building relationships,” Kate said. “I have made some really good friends through yearbook.”
“Graphic design is my favorite part,” said Sberall, “you develop skills like interviewing, writing, and seeing things from other perspectives, skills you can use for the rest of your life.”
Off to the publisher- Deadline met
Recently, the staff met a publishing deadline one week after spring break. Kotta says they have a quick turnaround because they have one week to get all the pictures of spring sports.
“I have third, fourth, and fifth hours off, and I dedicate that time to yearbook,” Kate said. “It is very time-consuming, and once you get into the last two weeks, the pressure is definitely on.”
“It is stressful at times, but it is also exciting,” Sberall said.
Yearbooks will arrive in May, and additional copies will be available from the office until they sell out.
