A San Diego native, Clayton Payne worked as a web designer, internet project manager, and musician before returning to Encinitas to work at The Grauer School. As a lover of the outdoors, Clayton has led numerous Expeditions at The Grauer School. He states that he is at The Grauer School because he “enjoys the opportunity to not only engage in dynamic, progressive education, but to do so while treating young people in a respectful, compassionate manner. To reach each student as an individual rather than as a name on a seating chart—within the class and on our expeditionary learning adventures—is truly remarkable.” In addition to his work at The Grauer School, Clayton has volunteered his time in service to WASC and SCETA. In 2007, he was awarded the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce award for Teacher of the Year at The Grauer School. Still a working musician, Clayton resides in Oceanside with his wife, Becky, and sons Thatcher and Luke.