Dixon School Board Appoints Melydi Huyett as Next Superintendent

The Dixon School Board has appointed Melydi Huyett as the next superintendent of Dixon Public Schools. This decision comes as current Superintendent Margo Empen prepares for retirement in July 2026. The board unanimously approved a three-year contract for Huyett during its meeting on December 17, 2023, with her tenure set to begin on July 1, 2026.

Huyett is a native of Dixon and is currently serving as the principal of Centennial Elementary School in Polo. Expressing her enthusiasm for the role, she stated, “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 over 20 years of experience in public education, Huyett has built a strong foundation in instructional leadership and district administration. At Centennial Elementary, she has spearheaded initiatives in mathematics and English language arts, as well as grant writing and technology implementation.

Board President Linda Wegner affirmed the board’s confidence in Huyett’s leadership, saying, “I believe that Dr. Huyett will approach every decision with kindness and respect.” Wegner highlighted Huyett’s deep connection to the community, emphasizing that she views this opportunity as a chance to give back to the schools and families that shaped her.

Throughout her career, Huyett has also served as a mentor to new principals across Illinois, gaining recognition for her leadership abilities. Notably, she received the Award of Excellence in the administrator category during the 2015-16 Illinois State Board of Education’s Those Who Excel awards program. Huyett holds a Doctorate of Education from Aurora University and has earned her Chief School Business Official degree from Northern Illinois University.

The contract stipulates that Huyett must establish residency within the district within one year of her start date. Her annual salary will be $150,000 for the 2026-2027 contract year, with a scheduled increase of 3% for each subsequent year.

The search for a new superintendent began in earnest after the board initiated preparations for Empen’s retirement in October 2024. In December of that year, the board engaged the Illinois Association of School Boards for support in the search process, paying $8,400 for their services. The official search commenced in June 2025.

During the board meeting, Vice President Brandon Rogers emphasized the importance of a deliberate transition period leading up to Huyett’s appointment. Board Secretary Melissa Gates proposed organizing informal meet-and-greet sessions, although no formal events have been scheduled as of now.

Huyett’s appointment marks a significant step forward for Dixon Public Schools, as the district prepares for a new era under her leadership.