In the 1950s and early 1960s, a number of new housing developments in the Pleasant Grove area made Samuell one of Dallas' largest high schools; a new wing was opened in the mid-1960s to handle the increase in population.

Dr. William Worthington Samuell was a wealthy individual who before his death donated millions of dollars to the City of Dallas Parks and Recreation Department.

The school and the district became the focus of a prominent civil rights case in 1966 when three male students — Paul Jarvis, Phil Ferrell and Steve Webb — sued the district after they were ordered to cut their long hair in order to be admitted to school.

[12] According to records maintained by the University Interscholastic League, this is the only baseball state championship won by any DISD high school to date.

[13] The 1964 Spartan track and field team, led by All-state recipient and star athlete Johnny Johnson, set a national high school record in the 440 relay.

Samuell Spartans • Hillcrest Panthers • South Oak Cliff Golden Bears • Kimball Knights • Spruce Timberwolves • Conrad Chargers • Jefferson Patriots[1]