Spencer Trail Principal Remembered As 'Guiding Light' In NL D122: Superintendent

NEW LENOX, IL — The New Lenox District 122 community is mourning a beloved leader, colleague and child advocate.

Spencer Trail School Principal Deirdre Scott died April 11 after a cancer battle. She was 48.

In a note to families, Superintendent Dr. Lori Motsch paid tribute to Scott.

"Throughout her 25-year career, Mrs. Scott dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the students, staff, and families of our district," Motsch wrote. "From teaching preschool through second grade to serving as an assistant principal at Spencer Pointe and Spencer Crossing, and most recently as the principal of Spencer Trail, she touched countless lives with her kindness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to education."

Her family in an obituary called Scott "The Warrior."

"She did not lose any war or battle; instead, she saved countless lives by participating in numerous cancer research trials," the obituary reads. "Her selfless contributions and fierce determination will be cherished for many years to come."

In respect to Scott, Spencer Trail students were issued an e-learning day Wednesday, to allow staff to attend Scott's funeral service.

"Mrs. Scott’s impact on our school community is immeasurable," Motsch said. "She was a mentor, an advocate, and a guiding light to so many. Her passion for education and dedication to nurturing young minds will be dearly missed but never forgotten."

Parent Andrea Traut remarked on Scott's warm nature and dedication to the students. Traut's three sons attended Spencer Trail.

“Mrs. Scott was a fighter and always had a huge smile ready for her students and parents," she said. "I could tell she was living her dream in the kindergarten building. She cared and wanted the kids to enjoy their time at Trail and spread her magic all over the building. 'Dee' was welcoming and loved by all that had the pleasure to volunteer in her building. She will be missed."

Visitation was held Tuesday. Funeral service is Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., from the Robert J. Sheehy & Sons Funeral Home, 9000 W. 151st St., Orland Park, to St. Michael Church, Mass of the Resurrection at 12:30 p.m. The service will be live-streamed.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Christmas Without Cancer, or Mulliganeers, 612 72nd Ct., Downers Grove, IL 60516, are encouraged.