Dixon School Board Appoints Melydi Huyett as New Superintendent

The Dixon School Board has appointed Melydi Huyett as the next superintendent of Dixon Public Schools, following the upcoming retirement of current superintendent Margo Empen in July 2026. The board unanimously approved a three-year contract for Huyett during a meeting on December 17, 2023. Her contract will commence on July 1, 2026, with an annual salary of $150,000 for the 2026-2027 school year, set to increase by 3% in subsequent years.

Huyett, a native of Dixon, currently serves as principal at Centennial Elementary School in Polo. In a statement following the board’s decision, she expressed her enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I am truly honored to be a part of and serve Dixon Public Schools. I look forward to working in partnership with our students, our staff, and our community partners in order to continue to do what’s best for the students of Dixon and our community.”

With two decades of experience in public education, Huyett brings a wealth of knowledge in instructional leadership and district administration. Her track record includes significant contributions to curriculum development in mathematics and English language arts, state and federal grant writing, and the implementation of technology initiatives at Centennial Elementary.

Linda Wegner, President of the Board, highlighted Huyett’s community roots and her commitment to education. “Melydi is a lifelong resident of Dixon and a product of Dixon Public Schools. She sees this as an opportunity to give back to the schools, families, and community that helped shape who she is,” Wegner stated.

Huyett’s accomplishments extend beyond her current role. She has been recognized for her leadership and mentorship, particularly in supporting new principals across Illinois. Notably, she received the Award of Excellence from the Illinois State Board of Education in 2015 for her work at Centennial Elementary.

In preparation for Huyett’s arrival, the board has been proactive since October 2024, when it began planning for a new superintendent to succeed Empen. In December 2024, the board enlisted the Illinois Association of School Boards for assistance in the search, which officially commenced in June 2025.

During the recent board meeting, Brandon Rogers, Board Vice President, emphasized the importance of a thoughtful transition period before Huyett takes office. Board Secretary Melissa Gates suggested arranging informal meet-and-greet sessions to facilitate community engagement. However, no official events have been scheduled as of yet.

Huyett’s educational credentials include a doctorate in education from Aurora University and a chief school business official degree from Northern Illinois University. The contract stipulates that she must establish residency within the district within one year after starting her role as superintendent.

As Dixon Public Schools prepares for this transition, the community anticipates Huyett’s leadership and vision for the future of the district.