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Roy Cloud was born in a place that no longer exists. Indeed, Cloud came into this world in the village of Crystal Springs, which has been at the bottom of the reservoir for well over 100 years.
During an era when hanging out in saloons was routine, Cloud, at age 14, vowed he would never drink alcohol. When he turned 70, his doctor suggested a single glass of wine each day would be medically beneficial. Cloud obliged.
Back to his story…
Cloud grew up in Redwood City, attending Sequoia High and was in the very first graduating class in 1898. Upon graduation, he immediately began teaching. A decade later, he received a degree from Stanford.
In 1906, he ran for County Superintendent and was elected, and he held the position for 19 years. As superintendent, he was required to visit each of the county's schools regularly; thus, on average, he made 200 visits each of the 19 years he was superintendent.
Traveling constantly, he reviewed teachers as well and evaluated the curriculum. He personified dedication.
During the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco, he arranged for almost 5,000 students and teachers to attend.
Over time, his efforts drew wide attention, and he became the state's most well-known and respected superintendent. He was active in numerous committees and became recognized as the state's leading educational advocate.
His vibrant personality made him an excellent public speaker. His success led to Cloud becoming the Executive Secretary for the California Teachers Association.
Attending every session of the California Legislature, he succeeded in getting 30 measures passed that focused on education.
He was a driving force in implementing the tenure system and helped create one of the most robust retirement systems for teachers across the United States.
When he wasn't involved in the educational system, he studied history and even wrote a detailed publication called "The History of San Mateo County."
At age 75, Cloud passed away in 1952. In 1957, a Redwood City elementary school was named after him.
Everything else is just history
Some of the photos used in this blog are courtesy of the Local History Room, Redwood City's best-kept secret. The Local History Collection covers all aspects of Redwood City's development, from the 1850s to the present day, with particular emphasis on businesses, public schools, civic organizations, city agencies, and early family histories. The Local History Room is not affiliated with the Redwood City Public Library, but it is inside it.
Editor's Note: A previous version of this story mischaracterized Jean Cloud as Roy Cloud's wife.
