Dear Yearbook Staff of 2015,

First off, I’m so proud of you guys for simply being a part of this yearbook staff. Yearbook has made such an incredible difference in my life and I hope that it can in some way impact your life as well. This experience really is like no other, and as a team we will all learn together, grow together, work together, argue together, and create something truly unique and amazing together. I have complete confidence that we will produce an excellent book when we each do our part and function as a team. We have a strong variety of people on staff, and each of you have valuable skills that are a vital asset to our staff.

A yearbook is “a memory book, a history book, a record book, and a reference book;” the events and lives of the people involved with a school during that year should be reflected in the publication. The book we create will be cherished by ourselves and hundreds of others for the rest of our lives. We face a fairly daunting task, especially as our staff is fairly small this year. However, when we come together to work as a team, we will not only meet the expectations of the task, but we will exceed them. Each staff member, you included, plays a vital role on our team. This is our staff, our school, our book, and our year. We will meet our deadlines and we will work hard to do so. As a yearbook staff, we are a business­ we want to please our customers and we want them to want to buy again next year. This means we will make the book for everyone, even those that you or I don’t like or don’t know. There will be times when you are required to do something that you don’t want to. Everyone will. That’s life, get over it.

Throughout this year, we have the opportunity to make the best yearbook that Madison has ever seen, and to have a great time doing so. The difference between doing this or not will be made by each individual staffer and the accumulation of small choices that we make that will seem insignificant. Please understand that the decisions you make related to yearbook affect many others beyond yourself, and possibly for the rest of our lives. I ask you to not take this lightly. Be responsible and do your part, just as you would on a team of any sort. If we each do our part, we can make this yearbook, staff, and class an incredible experience for all of us.

Now that all that is out of the way, I want you all to know that I am here for you. As an editor and as a friend. If you need help with anything, whether it relates to yearbook or not, I’m here to help. We are not just a room of separate individuals, but a staff, a team, and hopefully by the end of the year we will be a family. Please come to me if you have any concerns, and especially if those concerns involve the yearbook, your spreads, other staff members, etc. Let’s make this year and yearbook incredible!!

Love,

Amiee Jackson Head Editor MHS Yearbook 2015

MHS Yearbook Staff 2015 Rules and Expectations

­ Respect other staff members. You don’t have to agree, but you do need to respect their ideas,

beliefs, and opinions. All conflicts that you may have with another staffer are dropped and left at

the door.

­ If you aren’t in the room when class starts, you’re tardy. No exceptions.

­ “Okay” and “Good Enough” aren’t.

­ Deadlines are NOT optional. Be there, they are graded, and your absence will be reflected in

that grade. Not only this, but others on staff are counting on you, don’t disappoint them.

­ Be accurate: find the facts and report them. The credibility of the yearbook is at stake, never

guess, substitute information, or put thoughts/words in people’s heads. If you can’t remember,

ask them! This also applies to spelling of names.

­ The yearbook is confidential information, don’t share anything­ everything is a surprise!

­ You have extra freedom as a yearbook staffer. Do not abuse this­ don’t leave the classroom without checking out, and do not skip out early.

­ Don’t neglect your work. If you need help, ask. Don’t fake it, and don’t wait till the last minute. It

shows and you or I will have to redo it. That won’t make either of us happy campers.

Mission Statement: The Madisonian staff seeks to fulfill a trifecta of purposes and goals:

I. Create a memorable, unique, and creative yearbook that serves as an informational, historic record of Madison High School’s faculty, students, staff, and the events and happenings thereof in the 2014­2015 school year. The Madisonian strives to provide accurate, honest, and thorough coverage of all aspects of school life, including: the student body, faculty, and staff; sports teams and events; student life and activities; clubs and organizations; as well as academic classes. II. Help and encourage those involved to develop themselves personally, academically, and socially. We teach journalism, business, and leadership skills to staff members and provide the proper environment to develop, practice, and implement these skills. Through the process of producing and publishing a book, we also open the opportunity for each staff member to learn about and from each other, to gain experience in a work environment, and to discover new perspectives of their school and surroundings. III. Function as a business­ to make profit throughout the year by selling books, business ads, and senior ads. Keeping the budget and maintaining our debt­free record is essential to our philosophy and existence.

Ethics, Policies, and Philosophies: Staff members should be familiar with and adhere to the SPJ Code of Ethics. For absence, tardy, cellphone, grading, and profanity policies, refer to the Madison High School student handbook. The Madisonian Staff policies on these matters are congruent to those of the school. Advertising Policy: The editor­in­chief and advisor will determine if any advertisement is not acceptable. Before Publication Approval Policy: Stories, interviews, photographs, spreads, or designs will not be shared with non­staff members before publication unless the reporter and editor­in­chief determine the need to do so. Byline Policy: All stories written by an individual will receive a byline. Class Interruptions Policy: Staff members will put forth every effort to conduct publication business in a nondisruptive manner. If another class must be interrupted, the staff member should introduce themself to the teacher and ask permission to conduct business. When necessary, class interruptions should only be made toward the end of the period, and should be done in a timely manner. As a general rule of thumb, one should not exceed 5 minutes. Classroom Cleanliness Policy: Every staff member is responsible to maintain the cleanliness of the room. If you make a mess, clean it up. Keep your area tidy and organized. Classtime Work Policy: It is expected that the staff members stay active and engaged each class hour. If you don’t know what you can do, ask the editor! Conduct Policy: Upon conducting publication business, staff members are expected to act professionally and courteously. Do your best to leave a positive impression; you represent not only yourself but the staff, editors, adviser, and school as well. Deadline Policy: Presence and submission of work at deadlines is crucial to journalists and the success of the publication. If you are unable to meet a deadline, communicate immediately with the editor­in­chief. Failure to meet a deadline may result in a failing grade. Editor­in­chief as a Leader Policy: Editors­in­chief are expected to lead by example at all times during class and when representing the publication.

Equipment Use Policy: Equipment that is checked out or borrowed from publications should be utilized responsibly and returned in the same condition as it was lent. Students are responsible for damage/loss of publications equipment. Interviewing Policy: Interviews should be conducted in­person. Should and in­person interview be impossible, a phone interview is an appropriate back­up solution. Leaving the Room Policy: Whenever you leave the room, you should sign out with your name, purpose, and time. Upon return, you must sign back in and record the time. Plagarism Policy: Where the credibility of the Madisonian publication is at stake, plagarism of any kind is strictly prohibited. Reporting Policy: Reporting will be fair, authentic, thorough, and accurate. A reporter should keep all of their notes, including research, interviews, and observations. Writing Style/Guidelines Policy: Staff members should refer to and follow the Associated Press Style in all copy and captions throughout the publication.

Camera Use Policy:

The yearbook cameras are expensive, valuable tools that are essential to the yearbook’s success. When a staffer asks to borrow the camera, they assume the responsibility for the camera, lens cap, lens, memory card, charger, case, and all other equipment that they borrow. If any equipment is damaged, lost, or stolen, the staffer is responsible. Staffers must realize that they share our three cameras with the entire rest of the staff. This means that using the camera more than necessary (especially when others need it) is not only disrespectful, it is also inappropriate and will not be tolerated. We as a staff will work together to ensure that all events, meetings, people, etc that need photographed/covered are allocated with a photographer. Each staffer will be expected to do his or her part in this effort. After a staffer has completed their assignment, they will be expected to bring the camera and all other equipment back to the yearbook room, and subsequently remove the photos from the camera onto the computer. It is critical that the memory card is formatted after every use. When putting photos on the computer, please refer to the photo editor to know where to place them in order to keep all photos organized efficiently.

Staff Job Descriptions and Responsibilities Editor: Responsible for the overall development of the yearbook. Duties are mostly supervisory, but also include the day­to­day tasks of putting the yearbook together. Must be able to manage and motivate staff members.

works with adviser to select staff; assigns roles best suited to staffers’ skills updates staff manual materials; helps set policies and procedures issues assignments, makes sure those get completed on time manages/delegates all aspects of theme/concept work (selection, development,

design/production of cover, endsheets, title page, opening, dividers, closing, etc) leads by example as communicative, prompt, responsible, responsive, effective staffer

with concern for staff as whole completes final check of all pages prior to submission, works with adviser to ensure

timely, correct submission of all deadlines to the plant modifies policies/procedures as year progresses to improve process/product

Assistant Editors:

coaches staffers to improve their stories, photo ideas, and coverage strategies confirms that those covered have not been used too much checks spelling of every name on every page helps manage the master name list to make sure those being used aren’t being overused

and those who haven’t been used in past yearbooks are getting used assists editor by helping staff members with various questions regarding the book helps set example of exemplary staff member

Staff Member:

checks spelling of every name on each completed page inputs spreads into computer spell checks and proofreads all copy before submitting to copy editor checks pages for completion before submission to editors is responsible for making all assigned deadlines must stay after school when necessary to make assigned deadlines sells ads, helps with sales, distribution, and any other tasks as needed/assigned by

editors or adviser works as photographer, designer, and copywriter for each assigned spread

Layout Editor: assists editor in finalizing the layout portions of the yearbook style guide helps train staff to design layouts critiques layouts, suggesting changes and coaching designers so their work improves as

the year progresses answers questions regarding design, so the editor can manage other aspects of

production checks all pages for consistency, style, and technical errors before they are submitted to

editor/adviser for the final check Photography Editor:

selects/assigns photographers for school events tracks school’s activity calendar to be sure every event is photographed makes sure no photo is used more than once check to be sure everyone is photographed, but no one too much coordinates image management system so it’s easy to locate photo files when needed helps train staff photographically (photography techniques, the how­to’s of the camera(s),

etc) works with photo editing to ensure the highest quality photography in the book critiques photos so that the staff’s work improves as the year progresses

Copy Editor:

assists the editor in developing the copy portion of the yearbook style guide prepares information sheet for club advisers, coaches, and other important people to

complete trains staff members to write factual, interesting copy, captions, and headlines reads all copy for spelling, grammar, and journalistic style consistency may assist editor on theme, opening divider, and closing copy

Designer:

chooses/crops/labels photos for each assigned spread inputs spreads into computer formats layout to include necessary elements plus maximum coverage takes careful care to make each spread pleasing to the eye and consistent with the book checks pages for completion/deadline checklist before submission to editors is responsible for making all assigned deadlines

Photographer:

is prepared with camera at any event/meeting/time where they may need it brainstorms possibilities for every assignment, including a variety of photo shapes,

action, angles, perspectives, etc attends and actively photographs every assigned event

puts photos on computer as directed by photo editor to ensure organization; takes photos OFF the card after putting them ON the computer

captions their photos that the designer chooses to use (gathers names, dates, event details, quotes, action, etc necessary to formulate a well­written caption)

sorts through photos, deletes crappy shots, performs self­critique Copywriter:

brainstorms copy ideas and coverage concepts for each assigned spread conducts necessary interviews and research for all copy expands on their topics by adding supporting layers of coverage (i.e. quote bars,

timelines, personal profiles, etc) writes copy, captions, and headlines for each assigned spread checks spelling of every name on each completed spread spell checks and proofreads all copy before submitting to copy editor checks copy for correctness, accuracy, and completion before submitting it to the editors

People Section: You’re in charge of the mugshots. These spread can either be boring (let’s not) or fun (yes please!!). Your biggest responsibility is to include everyone, even the new kids that move in through the year (you may have a section after the Z’s if necessary). Make sure that everyone’s name is spelled correctly. As in triple­­ no, quadruple check! Each and every spread that you do should not have just mugs and names. If I see that at deadlines, I will require you to start over (yes, I will be mean that way, so start it right the first time). What can you include? Student spotlights, various surveys, photo packages, interviews, quotes, stories, etc. The sky is the limit on that! Come up with something that we haven’t ever done before, and I’ll love you to death (and most likely reward you somehow). Yes, your job is a bit easier than other sections, because your spreads have basically already been handed to you (partly anyway). This means that I expect you to also help other sections! Attend events, take photos, find stories, get involved with your school and peers and you’re sure to be an asset. Just because your section is easier, doesn’t mean you won’t work as hard. Trust me, I’ll see to that! Student Life: Basically it’s your job to cover everything. No big deal. Focus on the students, what they do both at school and at home. Concentrate on dramatic photos, but have fun with the section­ be sure to cover some lighter topics. Keep it fresh by covering stuff that hasn’t necessarily been covered before. Also include coverage of events that aren’t academic or sports related, i.e. prom, homecoming, etc. We will share the love with it comes to taking photos, but be prepared to do the main bulk of this! Keep careful track of what events are when, so we know when and where we need to send photographers. Sports: Sports are kind of a big deal here at Madison. Don’t take your job lightly! Be sure to include team photos for all sports, and keep the photo identification consistent. Always use first and last names of all players, and be sure to include those not pictured. Don’t overemphasize one sport or diminish others. Run a complete scoreboard, and don’t rehash that information in the copy. Don’t forget about the coaches, managers, fans, etc! Often, trying to attend every single sports home game is overwhelming and even impossible. This is why we have a staff that will pitch in on that (no pun intended… jk let’s be real that was totally intended!)! Expect to attend at least 2 games per week. When at a game, pay attention to what’s going on­ the star players, the opposing team, crazy happenings, etc. Take notes if you need, and don’t be scared to grab interviews and talk to people, not just those on the team. The coaches, managers, referees, fans, etc are all a part of the sport as a whole, so be sure to include them in some way as well. Clubs: Your mission: to track down, photograph, and gather intelligence on every organization in the school. Often clubs are sort of lacking in their organization and event scheduling aspects, so it becomes your job to communicate with all club advisers and presidents as to when and where what events will take place. This is difficult, but very possible. All groups should be included and covered fairly, accurately, and equally. Make links between different groups and design in

spreads, rather than allocating single pages to individual groups. Attend multiple activities/meetings in order to get a variety of action photos rather than taking all shots of a few people on the same day. A spread will not be submitted if a club’s coverage was all gathered on the same day or at the same meeting, and you will be required to fix it. The copy should never list officers, goals, or mundane information regarding the club, rather, it should attempt to capture the highlights of major events, unique stories, etc. Academics: From the get­go, readers are going to assume that your section is boring. Prove them wrong. Show what happens in the classroom, not just which courses are being taught. Don’t use cliche photos (i.e. teachers at chalkboard, kids reading, etc). Also, don’t get mob scenes or the tops/backs of students’ heads while at work. Get lots of quotes to demonstrate both teachers’ and students’ views. You have the most spreads, so be sure to stay on top of things. Talk to teachers to find out when they will be doing interesting/photographable activities in class, and make sure you’re there for them. Attend concerts, competitions, and be willing to get out of class or carry a camera with you for a day or two. Look for new/fresh coverage angles and opportunities. Often, we generalize and try to cover everyone, but don’t be afraid to focus in on an individual and discover their personal story (this is what will help to draw the reader in). The staff can help you to get interesting stories/angles/photographing opportunities, so let them and utilize that. Ads: You will work closely with our adviser, Mrs. Burgie, in regards to the financial aspect of the yearbook. You are responsible for sending the senior ad letters, keeping track of who’s paid, which pictures, and what copy goes with what. You need to be and organizational mastermind! Your job is extremely important, as we want people to be satisfied and encourage them to buy ads again. I’m also asking that you prepare and send thank you and patron letters. No pressure. Stay on top of things, and ask the editor or adviser for help when you need it or if problems arise. When business ads roll around, be flexible, but not too flexible. Set a deadline for business ad submission from the staff that gives you time to insert the ad into the book. Good luck!

Copy: Alternative Story Forms 119 Tips For Journalism Interviews Copy Writing Tips Caption Rubric Copy Rubric Copy Guidebook Word Crimes­ Weird Al Yankovic The Copywriting Infographic

Photography: Basics of Photography: Basics of Photography: The Complete Guide Photo Basics #1 (check out the whole series, there are at least 5 others) Basic Photo Tips Madison High School Photography Photography Rubric Yearbook Photography Cool Photography Links: Improve Photography How Photography Connects Us­ David Griffin The Power of Photography Proof: The Photographers on Photography Photoshop Tutorials/Shortcuts/Tips/Tricks: Photoshop Tutorials Learn Photoshop CS6 Adobe TV

Design:

Design Inspiration: Designspiration — Design Inspiration The Trick to Designing a Great Layout Typography: I Love Typography Thinking With Type

InDesign: Indesign Tutorials Learn InDesign CS6 Adobe TV InDesign Keyboard Shortcuts (In­Depth) InDesign Keyboard Shortcuts (Basic)

Layout Inspiration I’d recommend exploring the top 5 most or first (they’re my favorites at least)! *search for “editorial design,” “editorial layout,” etc *Pinterest is always a great option! (follow me!) *Communication Arts­ I can’t even explain how much I love this site. The word “favorite” just doesn’t do it justice! Take a peek and see what I mean. *YouTheDesigner­ love love lllooovvvee it!! *HowDesign­ again, a favorite! From up North­ I’d recommend checking out the Inspiration Galleries, specifically graphic design, illustration, photography, print design, and typography Hongkiat­ This is a blog (again with those articles…), but explore and you’re sure to find some great stuff! istockphoto­ this one is more photography inspiration, but photography plays a huge role in the yearbook! Envato­ this is a web design store, but the design ideas/concepts can still inspire and apply Smashing Magazine­ explore and soak in the great design Creative Bloq­ one of my personal favorites, again explore and enjoy Abduzeedo­ not so much editorial design, but some really incredible typography and other inspiration for sure! Also, if you find any other sites or have any tips, please email me all about them!

Other Resources:

Yearbook Calendar­ you can view and comment. Whenever you find out about any event that would need photographing, please comment on the calendar all the details about it on the day it is! Section Style Guides­ coming soon! These will include specifics about fonts, text styles, layout styles, etc to help us remain consistent through each section and through the whole book. Managing Up, Down, and Sideways­ Would you like to be my favorite person on staff? Take a look at this article! Yearbook Discoveries­ Do you still have questions? I got a lot of my information using the resources provided on this site. If you can’t find the answer in the book, check this site out! NSPA Yearbook Guidebook­ Another one of those question­answering sites! This one is especially helpful in regards to copy writing. Yearbook Interviewing­ A few tips and tricks of the trade. The Definitive Guide to Yearbook Design­ Struggling with design? This one is for you! Yearbook Vocabulary Staff Directory­ names, positions, phone #’s, emails, birthdays, etc Food for Thought:

Form Vs. Content­ what does it mean? Content is the message, the story, or the meaning, while form is how that message, story, or meaning is presented or communicated. In other words, design is related to form, copy is related to content, and photography manages to bridge the gap between the two. But which is more important? The debate rages on, but here in yearbook we stand by the philosophy that though both are critical, strong content is better than strong form. A story, well­executed, trumps any kind of look. When you design, your goal is to reinforce the look and feel of a story. Not­so­perfect design tied to a compelling story will hold an audience more than strong design linked to a poorly conceived concept or story.