Welcome to Jeffers Elementary, Dr. Kris Dewitt!

Spring Lake Public Schools is thrilled to welcome Dr. Kris Dewitt, who officially joined the Jeffers Elementary community as principal yesterday. Her first day was filled with activity as she greeted students, met parents, and received a warm reception from staff members eager to work with their new principal.

Dr. Dewitt brings a wealth of experience to Jeffers Elementary, grounded in both her Michigan roots and an extensive career in education. Reflecting on her upbringing in Mt. Clemens, she shared that her family, friends, and close-knit community taught her the value of strong, trusting relationships—a principle she now brings to Jeffers. “Family and friends are very important to me,” she explained. “I prioritize creating strong, trusting relationships.” After years of living out of state, she’s excited to return to Michigan with her husband, Dan, and once again cheer on her favorite sports teams in her home state.

Dr. Dewitt’s journey has taken her from the Kalamazoo area, where she began her career, to Penn State University, where she served as co-facilitator of the Professional Development School. At Penn State, she worked with pre-service teachers, developed innovative teaching strategies, and earned recognition for her contributions to teacher education. She later became principal at Gray’s Woods Elementary in State College, Pennsylvania, where she fostered a supportive school culture and thrived as a building leader.

With her first few months at Jeffers, Dr. Dewitt is eager to immerse herself in the school’s culture, get to know the students, staff, and families, and support Jeffers in its commitment to excellence. “I’ll be learning as much as I can about the community, the district, and our school by being visible and asking lots of questions,” she said. She looks forward to working closely with her administrative team, reviewing academic and social-emotional data, and identifying strengths and opportunities for growth.

As Dr. Dewitt steps into this new chapter at Jeffers Elementary, Spring Lake is excited to have her on board.

Welcome to the community, Dr. Dewitt! Go Lakers!