Description
This collection contains the papers of Alexander J. Stoddard (1889-1965). His papers include correspondence, reports, speeches,
photographs, and clippings documenting his tenures as Superintendent of Schools in Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Denver.
Background
Alexander J. Stoddard was born in 1889 in Auburn, Nebraska. He graduated from Auburn High School in 1905 and married Sadie
Gillan in 1916. They had one son and one daughter. Stoddard began his career as a school teacher in Nebraska, receiving a
BS from the University of Nebraska and a Master's degree from Columbia University's Teachers College in 1924. He moved to
Los Angeles in 1948 after having spent nine years as the superintendent of schools in Philadelphia. Stoddard served as Superintendent
of Los Angeles City Schools from 1948 until his retirement in 1954. Stoddard was actively involved with a number of national
education organizations, including the American Association of School Administrators, the Educational Policies Commission
and Superintendents of Larger City School Systems. In the 1950s, he was a strong advocate for the new field of educational
television. Before working in Philadelphia, Stoddard served as Superintendent of Schools in Denver, Colorado; Providence,
Rhode Island; Schenectady, New York; and Bronxville, New York. Stoddard died on October 18, 1965 in Los Angeles.
Extent
11.08 Linear feet
11 boxes
Restrictions
The collection contains published materials; researchers are reminded of the copyright restrictions imposed by publishers
on reusing their articles and parts of books. It is the responsibility of researchers to acquire permission from publishers
when reusing such materials. The copyright to unpublished materials belongs to the heirs of the writers. Permission to publish,
quote, or reproduce must be secured from the repository and the copyright holder.
Availability
COLLECTION STORED OFF-SITE. Advance notice required for access.