Dixon School Board Appoints Melydi Huyett as New Superintendent

The Dixon School Board has appointed Melydi Huyett as the new superintendent for Dixon Public Schools, effective July 1, 2026. Huyett, a native of Dixon and currently serving as the principal of Centennial Elementary School in Polo, will succeed Margo Empen, who is set to retire in July 2026. The board unanimously approved Huyett’s three-year contract during a meeting on December 17, 2023.

Huyett 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 to continue doing what’s best for the students of Dixon and our community.”

With 20 years of experience in public education, Huyett has a strong background in instructional leadership, district administration, and student-centered outcomes. Her tenure at Polo’s Centennial Elementary has involved significant initiatives, including advancements in math and English language arts, state and federal grant writing, and the implementation of one-on-one technology programs.

Linda Wegner, the Board President, expressed confidence in Huyett’s leadership abilities, stating, “I believe that Dr. Huyett will approach every decision with kindness and respect.” Wegner highlighted Huyett’s commitment to giving back to the community that has shaped her career, noting that Huyett is a lifelong resident of Dixon and an alumnus of Dixon Public Schools.

Throughout her career, Huyett has also served as a mentor to new principals across Illinois and has received recognition for her leadership qualities. In 2015, she earned the Award of Excellence from the Illinois State Board of Education’s Those Who Excel program while serving as principal at Centennial Elementary.

Huyett holds a doctorate in education from Aurora University and completed her chief school business official degree at Northern Illinois University. According to the contract, she is required to establish residency within the district within one year of her start date and will receive an annual salary of $150,000 for the 2026-2027 contract year, with a planned increase of 3% for each subsequent contract year.

The board began preparations for the search for a new superintendent in October 2024, following Empen’s announcement of her retirement. In December of that year, the school board voted to engage the Illinois Association of School Boards at a cost of $8,400 to assist in the search process, which commenced in June 2025.

During the recent board meeting, Brandon Rogers, the Board Vice President, underscored the importance of being intentional during this transition period leading up to Huyett’s appointment. Melissa Gates, Board Secretary, proposed informal meet-and-greet sessions to facilitate community engagement, although no official events have been scheduled yet.

Huyett’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Dixon Public Schools, as the district looks to move forward under her leadership and continue its commitment to educational excellence.