Yearbook adviser Eric Hartman set out to create a yearbook that would transcend the challenges of the 2020–2021 school year. Aware of the struggles students faced both in and out of school, he envisioned a design that conveyed peace, relaxation, and progress. United Yearbook embraced the vision and elevated the project by involving our R&D team in the development of this innovative piece.

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Using Eric Hartman’s original surfboard prototype, our team digitally traced the shape and developed custom molds for extruding and cutting the surfboard and fin components for mass production. They meticulously curved and stacked the names of all 80 graduating eighth graders, which were artfully placed inside the wave shape on the back cover.

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The effort and preparation required to bring this concept to life far exceeded our expectations. The spine features the school’s name and year in clean white lettering. On the back, two magnetic gradient flaps extend to form a surfboard, and cutout fins can be inserted at the tail end. Inside, a three-panel gatefold showcases the entire eighth-grade class—symbolically keeping them united within the waves they navigated throughout the year.

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Every detail, from the front cover to the final page, was designed to reflect the meaning and intention behind this yearbook and to bring a spark of excitement to each student.

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Check out the video below to hear Eric Hartman share his story firsthand.