By the time the yearbook is submitted, most advisers feel two things at once: First, RELIEF, and second, PERSPECTIVE. The deadlines are behind you. The hard part is done. And for the first time in months, there is enough distance to look back and ask: Do I want next year to operate the same way? It is worth taking a step back and deciding what should actually change.

For many yearbook advisers, the idea of changing publishers sounds and feels overwhelming. Even if there are frustrations, limited creative options, a lack of support, or a process that feels harder than it should, the thought of switching is more threatening and raises multiple questions:Will it be more work? What if something goes wrong? How long does it take to get set up? Because of that uncertainty, many programs stay with what’s familiar even if it’s not the best fit.

Most yearbook teams start thinking about next year’s staff in the fall. But by then, it’s often too late. Schedules are already set, students have committed to other activities, and you’re left trying to fill gaps instead of building a strong, intentional team. Relieve the stress and find the best candidates by taking a different approach. The most successful yearbook programs take a different approach; they start recruiting before the current school year ends.