Kellyann Reis
A picture of Kellyann Reis

Superintendent of Schools

Mrs. Reis began her educational career as a Speech Therapist.  After 3 years of working for San Joaquin County, she decided to go into the classroom as a teacher.  Her teaching career took her back to her childhood school, New Jerusalem Elementary.

Mrs. Reis is now the longest standing employee within New Jerusalem District, serving over 25 years.  The past 6 years have been in administration, continuing to grow the District’s Online Programs.

Kellyann will now move into the role of Superintendent.  She steps into some big shoes, following the district’s longtime Superintendent, David Thoming.  He has grown the District from its one small rural school to currently operating 9 Charter Schools.

The District will continue to thrive as Mrs. Reis will begin to focus on curriculum, interventions and positive behavior in the classrooms.  Students have been on a rocky path dealing with the outcomes of COVID.  New Jerusalem School District will be putting all efforts into getting kids back on a smooth path where they feel safe and loved in order to learn.

Steve Payne
Photo of Steve Payne

Deputy Superintendent, Student Services and Human Resources

Steve has worked in education since 1994, starting his career in the Linden Unified School District as a high school special education teacher.  After 7 years in Linden, he moved to Tracy Unified as a 4th and 5th grade general education teacher for 3 years.  During his time in Tracy, Steve completed his coursework to become an administrator and moved back to Linden as the Director of Student Services.

After 3 years in Linden, Mr. Payne came to the New Jerusalem Elementary School District working as a school principal and a special education director.  During his time in New Jerusalem, Steve has worked with district and district authorized charter schools to create and provide educational services to special needs children.  His focus for the district and its special education program, is to focus on the individual needs of each child.