About Us

It all started in 1865...

The Ebe Family came across the plains in covered wagons and settled near here about 1865. In 1874, Mr. Henry Ebe, newly settled, donated two acres of land to San Joaquin County for a school in this area. In exchange for this, he required that the school be given the name “New Jerusalem.”

Mr. and Mrs. Ebe were Dunkards. They raised eleven children who went to New Jerusalem School. Mr. Ebe also served as Trustee for the school.

Mrs. Reynolds was New Jerusalem’s first teacher. She had a five year tenure in 1879, at which time there were 21 boys and 17 girls registered at the school, for a total of 38. Average daily attendance was eighty-four percent. At that time there were 14 children in the school district under the age of 5.

New Jerusalem School has had a long tradition of quality education. The school reflects the area’s strong sense of community.

Many of the grandparents, and even great-grandparents, of today’s students attended NJS. Both parents and the community as a whole strongly support the teachers, administration, Board and staff.

New Jerusalem is a “country” school, both geographically and culturally. This means that we adhere to traditional values including emphasizing student responsibility and resourcefulness, treating one another with dignity and respect, involving and communicating with parents, and maintaining high academic standards within a caring and thoughtful environment. We like to think of ourselves as a “school family.”

Our district is home to dedicated and innovative educators who inspire a love for learning. NJESD continuously invests in professional development and advanced teaching methodologies, ensuring our staff remains at the forefront of best educational practices.

• Our curriculum is student-centered and experiential, focusing on:
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs
• Arts and creative expression
• Literacy and language development
• Hands-on, project-based learning

Through these approaches, students are encouraged to think critically, collaborate, and solve real-world problems.

In today’s digital world, technology is a key tool in education. NJESD provides students with state-of-the-art technology, equipping classrooms with:

• Interactive smart boards and digital learning platforms
• STEM-focused robotics and coding programs
• 1:1 student-to-device technology access
• Cyber literacy and responsible digital citizenship initiatives

By integrating technology into daily learning, we empower students to become adaptable, tech-savvy, and innovative thinkers ready for the modern workforce.

At NJESD, we recognize that exposure to real-world careers helps students discover their passions and future aspirations. Our Career Exploration Program brings professionals from diverse industries into our schools to inspire and educate students about different career paths.

We invite industry experts from fields such as:

• Healthcare – EMTs, paramedics, doctors, nurses
• Public Safety – Firefighters, police officers, military personnel
• Creative Arts & Media – Filmmakers, TV producers, graphic designers, animators
• STEM & Engineering – Software developers, aerospace engineers, data scientists
• Trades & Skilled Professions – Electricians, plumbers, mechanics, construction managers
• Business & Entrepreneurship – Financial analysts, small business owners, marketing executives
• Education & Social Services – Teachers, school counselors, psychologists
• Agriculture & Environmental Science – Farmers, conservationists, environmental scientists

Through guest speaker events, hands-on demonstrations, career days, and mentorship opportunities, students gain insight into different professions and begin to envision their future paths at an early age.

NJESD thrives on strong partnerships with families, local businesses, and community organizations that support student growth. Our collaborations with industry leaders, educational foundations, and service clubs provide invaluable resources, scholarships, and career readiness opportunities for students.

Organizations such as the New Jerusalem Education Foundation and local business sponsors contribute to:

• STEM and technology advancement programs
• Career mentorship and internship opportunities
• Literacy and academic excellence initiatives
• Student leadership and community service projects

By working together, we ensure our students receive the guidance, inspiration, and tools they need to succeed in both academics and life beyond the classroom.

Located in California’s Central Valley, NJESD serves a diverse and expanding student population. Just a short drive from major cities like San Francisco, Sacramento, and Modesto, our district combines the charm of a tight-knit community with access to endless educational and career opportunities.

As a progressive, forward-thinking district, NJESD remains dedicated to student success, innovation, and lifelong learning. We invite parents, educators, and community members to join us in shaping the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and changemakers.

Welcome to New Jerusalem Elementary School District—where learning meets opportunity, and dreams become reality.