First day of school was September 12, 1955. Although the school opened in 1955, the dedication ceremony did not take place until Sunday, Jan 8, 1956. Washington opened with more students attending than the school was currently able to hold, so temporary changes were made to house all students. Mr. Melvin Zinser was the first principal of Washington. Washington beat Sunnyslope in their first game against each other. The library had 1,000 new books. The “Snowball” was the first school formal. The first football game was on September 29, 1955 against Tolleson. The JV Football team beat Sunnyslope on October 14, 1955. The score was 13 to 6. Washington’s freshmen beat Sunnyslope on November 9, 1955 in football. The first clubs at Washington were: Future Homemakers of America, Girls Athletic Association, Golf Club, Tri-H-Y, Girls Chorus, Mixed Chorus, Pep Club, Future Nurses Club, Photography Club, Drama, and Hi-Y. The cafeteria did not open until mid November and consequently, one of the rooms in the 100 wing served as a lunch room. Monday September 26, six cheerleaders were chosen. They were Rita Callaway, Noreen Tower, Marilyn  Meyer, Rosemary King, Jeri Fay, and Bill Grant. Mr. and Miss Washington are named on November 23. Mr. Washington is Joe Cole, and Miss Washington is Rita Callaway.