Yearbook Accuracy: How to Get Names and Portraits Right

A single error in a student’s name or photo can undermine your yearbook’s credibility. Here’s a streamlined process to ensure accuracy from start to finish.

✅ Final Corrections & Layout Check

• Apply teacher edits from proof sheets directly into your yearbook software.
• Scan final pages for layout issues:
  • Are long names cut off?
  • Is the font readable?
  • Are names and portraits aligned?
• Fresh eyes pass: Have someone new review the pages, they’ll spot what others missed.

🔍 Accuracy Starts Early

1. Verify Names

• Use the official school database, never handwritten lists.
• Lock names after verification; only advisers or registrars approve changes.

2. Match Portraits

• Use the photographer’s portrait list with student IDs.
• Sort and rename photo files by ID to prevent mix-ups.
• Have two staffers verify each class or grade section.

🧑‍🏫 Multi-Level Review

Accuracy improves when multiple people check:

• Homeroom teachers proof their student sections.
• Students review their own names and portraits during “proof week.”
• Editors work in pairs, one reads from the master list, the other checks the layout.

✅ Final Sign-Off

Before submission:

• Require signatures from editors and advisers for each section.
• Keep a sign-off sheet for students, teachers, clubs, and sports.

This final layer of accountability ensures that every correction has been applied and every section is ready for print.