School District of Washington

August 20, 2026

School District of Washington Staff Opening Ceremony

The School District of Washington welcomed staff back for the 2026-27 school year with its annual Opening Ceremony on Wednesday, August 19, at Washington High School.

Superintendent Dr. Cassandra Suggs and Board of Education President Dr. Frank Wood offered words of inspiration and gratitude to staff members. Also speaking were Washington High School graduates Dr. Amy Wang and Dr. DeVansi Patel, who both are former students of Suggs while attending WHS.

The keynote speaker was Dr. Joe Sanfelippo, a retired superintendent from the Fall Creek School District in Fall Creek, Wisc.

Following the ceremony, staff visited with vendors and community partners, including WINGS, United Way, and many others who were on hand to show their support. AZZ Precoat provided gift cards to staff.

Photos from the 2026-27 Opening Ceremony are below.

A speaker stands at a podium in front of a large screen displaying 'Welcome Back' and a blue bird logo.

A presenter stands at a podium on a stage, gesturing towards a large screen displaying a blue bird logo and text.

Two individuals stand at a podium on a stage, with a large blue screen displaying

A woman stands on a stage in front of a large blue screen with the text 'The Decisio' visible.

Keynote Speaker Dr. Joe Sanfelippo stands on a stage with his arms outstretched.

A speaker stands on a stage presenting a slide with the text: 'EVERY INTERACTION MATTERS BECAUSE EVERY INTERACTION COULD BE THE ONE THEY TALK ABOUT FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES.'

A speaker stands on a stage presenting text that reads 'EVERY INTERACTION MATTERS BECAUSE EVERY INTERACTION COULD BE THE ONE THEY TALK ABOUT THE REST OF THEIR LIVES.'

People are sorting and distributing items from cardboard boxes in an indoor setting.

Two women and a man are organizing items in cardboard boxes.

People browse merchandise, including t-shirts and tote bags, at a school event.

Three people stand behind a table with a blue tablecloth displaying YMCA logos and promotional materials.

People gather at a table with information and pens, with a

A woman in a grey shirt explains something to two women at a table with a 'Wings Educational Foundation' banner.