“Best Pick-Up Lines.” “Most Likely to Win Survivor.” “Most Likely to Laugh at the Worst Possible Moment.” As seniors conclude their time in Boston Latin School, the yearbook serves as a final farewell gift to our graduating class, so it should be as captivating as possible. The recent removal of superlatives like “Worst Case of Senioritis?” or “Cutest Couple That Never Was,” however, decrease the excitement of the yearbook — a trend that is long overdue for a reversal.
First, there needs to be more comedic, student-specific nominations such as “Best Bromance” and “Most Complicated Starbucks Order.” The yearbook is not made for teachers and adults — it is made for students to feel connected to their graduating class. Through silly and specific categories, they will be able to look back and appreciate the time they spent at BLS, as each name and superlative triggers a specific memory, as opposed to a general personality trait that could apply to many.
Yearbook committee member Becky Nguyen (I) adds, “Senior year is about making memories and boring superlatives are a bit of a buzzkill.”
Basic nominations make the yearbook forgettable, whereas more unique ones promote feelings of nostalgia, which is what the yearbook is all about. Especially considering that other sections, such as student quotes, are restricted to famous people, the nominations section must remain a chance to display funny and BLS-specific humor.
As for why controversial superlatives were cut in the first place, BLS English teacher and yearbook advisor Mx. Dana Amico says that superlatives like “Least Studious” or “Most Likely to Fall Asleep in Class” often get cut because it “does not sound fitting for BLS. We want to honor excellence. You never know why a student may not be excelling academically.”
This marks a departure from the past, when the administration took a more hands-off approach to regulating superlatives. Back then, the yearbook had been known to include inappropriate superlatives like the 1989 yearbook’s “Best Body” and “Best Rear View.” While moves to prevent school bullying and judgment from peers are worthy, it is important not to over-edit superlatives, thereby manufacturing a sanitized version of the high school experience.
Ruby Dai (I) adds, “I do believe there is a way of being unique and funny without […] being inappropriate.”
There are also concerns about cancel culture, and the fear that BLS would risk getting backlash for including “risky” superlatives. The school wants to uphold its image as an elite, reputable institution — an understandable goal — by showing only the best, most polished sides of our community. It is just as important to let students express themselves, however, especially in their yearbook.
It is understandable that some ethical standards should be placed when deciding nominations for students, but these cuts should be sparing. BLS students have a right to express their wit and have their best, or funniest, traits be spotlighted. So, embrace bold superlatives as a chance to reminisce on the fun and humorous parts about BLS, and celebrate each student’s individuality and spark!