John Swett

Biography

John Swett, born in 1830, earned the admiration of Californians by championing free public education and by encouraging every child to learn. As a leader and Superintendent of Public Instruction, he encouraged high standards for teachers and saw that schools remained a welcoming place for families.

He died in 1913 and is buried at Mountain View Cemetery, where his influence on countless classrooms endures. His resolute belief that education is a public trust continues to guide those who carry on his work.