Donald Kreps, principal, 1957-1979; math teacher 1958-1983. Stanford graduate (B.A., M.A. teaching credential) Kreps started at Redwood a year before it opened its doors in 1958, the leader who directed the immensely complicated process of launching a school from scratch. Kreps furnished the campus and hired its staff and first coaches, including Al Endriss and Bob Troppmann, who themselves are now members of the Athletic Hall of Fame.
                                  
Throughout the 19 years that he led Redwood as its principal, Kreps was also a math and physics teacher. In 1979, after resigning his principalship, Krebs remained on campus through 1983 teaching those subjects. After his formal retirement from Redwood, Krebs taught math and physics at The Branson School, a private academy in nearby Ross.

Redwood first honored Kreps by naming its faculty lounge after him. Now, it has followed up with twin tributes: His induction as a charter member into the Athletic Hall of Fame and his simultaneous induction into the school’s Distinguished Alumni Avenue of Giants.

Although the latte distinction honors graduates of Redwood High School who have made a significant contribution to society or achieved substantial professional success, Kreps was recognized as a one-time-only non-alumni honoree for “his inspirational leadership which created the foundation for the quality of education at Redwood High School. He was the founding Principal of Redwood, creating the vision, spirit and high expectations for students and staff alike.  His qualities of mentorship, high ethical standards and kindness permeated Redwood during his tenure.  He allowed staff and students to challenge themselves in creating a positive educational atmosphere.”

Kreps’s legacy also extended through his family: three of his four children attended Redwood. He lives in Greenbrae, still near the school he did so much to create and sustain.