Most Likely To Raise Eyebrows

Yearbooks today delve into hot-button topics, edgy humor.

One needs no further proof that yearbooks have changed than the 2005 offering from Boynton Beach High School in Florida. In one senior superlative picture, a White student held her Black boyfriend on a leash. In another, a teen faux-slapped his galpal. Students dismissed the national debate on racism, free speech, and good taste that followed (think CNN) as much ado about nothing. But with students demanding books reflecting such issues as same-sex dating, teen pregnancy, and drug and alcohol use, the clamor is likely to grow. Advisors who’ve weathered their own problems and folks at the Student Press Law Center caution educators to adopt a written editorial policy for student submissions and photos—and to be the last set of eyes on proofs.