District Leadership
Our district leadership team plays a central role in shaping the direction and success of our schools. With a strong commitment to student achievement, staff support, and community engagement, the team works collaboratively to create an environment where all students can thrive.
At the forefront of this work is Superintendent Kellyann Reis, whose leadership continues to drive the district’s vision for innovation, equity, and excellence. Her strategic focus and passion for student-centered learning have helped strengthen partnerships across the district and the broader community.
Deputy Superintendent Billy Wessell leads the district’s administrative functions, overseeing operations, human resources, and internal systems that keep our schools running efficiently and effectively. His work ensures that every site has the support it needs to succeed.
On the educational side, Don Patzer, Executive Director of Educational Services, focuses on the instructional core, leading curriculum development, professional learning, and student support systems. His efforts help ensure that every classroom delivers high-quality, engaging instruction that meets the diverse needs of all learners.
Providing essential day-to-day support, Tracy Thomsen serves as the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent. She supports scheduling, documentation, and coordination, helping the Superintendent’s office run smoothly and stay connected across departments.
Together, this leadership team is united by a shared vision: to empower students, support educators, and uphold a district culture built on trust, transparency, and continuous growth.
At the forefront of this work is Superintendent Kellyann Reis, whose leadership continues to drive the district’s vision for innovation, equity, and excellence. Her strategic focus and passion for student-centered learning have helped strengthen partnerships across the district and the broader community.
Deputy Superintendent Billy Wessell leads the district’s administrative functions, overseeing operations, human resources, and internal systems that keep our schools running efficiently and effectively. His work ensures that every site has the support it needs to succeed.
On the educational side, Don Patzer, Executive Director of Educational Services, focuses on the instructional core, leading curriculum development, professional learning, and student support systems. His efforts help ensure that every classroom delivers high-quality, engaging instruction that meets the diverse needs of all learners.
Providing essential day-to-day support, Tracy Thomsen serves as the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent. She supports scheduling, documentation, and coordination, helping the Superintendent’s office run smoothly and stay connected across departments.
Together, this leadership team is united by a shared vision: to empower students, support educators, and uphold a district culture built on trust, transparency, and continuous growth.
Kellyann Reis
Superintendent
kreis@njes.org
Billy Wessell
Deputy Superintendent
bwessell@njes.org
Don Patzer
Executive Director
Educational Services
Educational Services
dpatzer@njes.org
Tracy Thomsen, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent, supports daily scheduling, documentation, and coordination at the district office.
Our Values
At New Jerusalem Elementary School District (NJESD), we are committed to providing a well-rounded, future-focused education that empowers students to reach their full potential. Our district nurtures young minds by combining academic excellence, hands-on learning experiences, and real-world career exposure to prepare students for success in an ever-evolving world.
With a strong foundation in innovation, leadership, and community collaboration, NJESD ensures that every student gains the skills and confidence needed to thrive academically and socially.
- District Contacts
- Superintendent's Desk
- Disclosures
- District Calendar
- Social Media Central
- District News
- Employment
- In the Spotlight
- A Safe, Supportive, and Inclusive Environment
- Excellence in Education with Passionate Educators
- Technology-Driven Learning for the 21st Century
- Career Exploration and Real-World Learning
- A Community That Invests in Education
- A Growing, Future-Focused Community
A Safe, Supportive, and Inclusive Environment
Excellence in Education with Passionate Educators
Technology-Driven Learning for the 21st Century
Career Exploration and Real-World Learning
A Community That Invests in Education
A Growing, Future-Focused Community
Welcome to New Jerusalem Elementary School District—where learning meets opportunity, and dreams become reality.