South Pasadena High senior asks board to classify yearbook as Visual and Performing Arts course to boost participation

Willow Baughman, a senior at South Pasadena High School, told the board during public comment on Nov. 4 that the school’s yearbook class, Cop de Oro, should be designated a Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) course. She said the class teaches photography, editing, design, leadership and teamwork and that adding VPA designation could increase enrollment by allowing students to satisfy VPA requirements without taking an additional class.

"Being a part of this class has taught me so many important skills as a photographer and editor and also as a team member," Willow said. She described leadership roles in the yearbook, departments such as designers, photographers, writers and illustrators, and the time commitment and creative work students undertake. Willow said enrollment has dropped and that the VPA designation could encourage more students to apply.

Willow acknowledged that yearbook can remain a CTE class but said adding VPA credit would reduce the need for students to take an extra class and therefore make it more feasible for busy students to join. The board did not take action on the request during the meeting; the item was made during the visitor-comments portion and will require staff follow-up if the board wishes to consider a course reclassification.

No district staff gave a formal response on the record during the meeting. The student was initially interrupted when trying to comment during a public hearing (which was limited to negotiation-related remarks) and later offered her full comment during visitor comments.

This is a public-request item raised in comment and not a board proposal; any curricular or VPA credit changes would require review by district staff and appropriate curriculum committees.