It was built in 1913 for what was then a teacher training college, to serve as a laboratory school where student teachers gained practical experience instructing local children.

[2] The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 as the Model School for its state-level significance in the theme of education.

Cloud Model School continued to serve its original role into the 1950s, but moved into the nearby Thomas J.

[citation needed] From 1958 to 2008, the renamed Riverview Hall was home to the university's English department.

The project retained the historic features of the original building while adding up-to-date innovations.