About Our Admins

Mrs. Molly Schaefer-Principal

Mrs. Schaefer has been in education for 29 years. She has worked in Waukegan her entire career, teaching English and working as a school administrator. She has served as the Principal of John R Lewis Middle School for the past 6 years. Mrs. Schaefer obtained her BA in English and Secondary Education at Illinois State University, and her M.A. in Education Leadership from Lewis University.  Mrs. Schaefer believes all students can learn and that education is the key to opening opportunities. She resides in Waukegan with her husband, daughters, and cats. She enjoys gardening, reading, cooking, and learning new things.  

Ms. Melissa DeWitt- Assistant Principal

Ms. DeWitt has worked in education since 2009.  During her time in Waukegan, she has served as a special education teacher, WIN trainer, and a member of the culture and climate committee at Lyon Magnet Elementary School. Ms. DeWitt obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. She also has two masters degrees: a  Special Education Master’s from National Louis University, and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Concordia University. Ms. DeWitt has worked as a Future and Aspiring Leader (FAAL) summer school administrator at John Lewis Middle School prior to becoming Assistant Principal. When not at work, Miss DeWitt loves to cook, bake, listen to music, and spend time with her family and friends.

Ms. Tiffani Scott- Assistant Principal

Ms. Scott has been in education since 2016. Prior to joining the John R. Lewis Middle School community, Ms. Scott served as a school counselor. She obtained both her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and M.S.Ed in Counseling from Northern Illinois University, as well as a Masters in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education. In her free time, Ms. Scott enjoys spending time with her daughter, reading, coaching, and having an occasional binge-watching session of Netflix shows. 


Website by SchoolMessenger Presence. © 2024 SchoolMessenger Corporation. All rights reserved.