Dixon School Board Reviews Residency Rule in Superintendent Search

The search for a new superintendent at Dixon Public Schools is underway, prompting the school board to reconsider its residency requirement for candidates. This evaluation follows the board’s decision in December 2024 to engage the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) to facilitate the search ahead of current Superintendent Margo Empen‘s retirement scheduled for July 2026.

During a special meeting held on August 8, 2025, IASB consultant Carmen Ayala informed the board that the mandate for the new superintendent to reside within the district might deter potential applicants. The job posting, which is open until September 12, 2025, has seen fewer applications than anticipated. Ayala noted that candidates expressed reservations about relocating, with some living as close as 20 minutes away from the district.

Ayala posed a critical question to the board: “Do you want to lose a potential great candidate for 20 minutes living outside of the district?” This reflects a growing concern that the residency requirement could limit the pool of qualified candidates. The district’s geographical boundaries extend beyond Dixon, covering areas as far south as U.S. Route 30 and north past Grand Detour.

The board’s rationale for maintaining the residency requirement revolves around fostering loyalty and community involvement, according to Board President Linda Wegner. She emphasized that having a superintendent living in the district could enhance their visibility and engagement in local activities. Board Vice President Brandon Rogers supported this view, stating, “Initially, we were thinking we don’t want to be a stepping-stone community.”

Despite these intentions, Ayala pointed out that candidates might face challenges in relocating, particularly due to timing and housing availability. If everything proceeds as planned, the new superintendent is expected to start in January 2026, allowing for a transition period with Empen. However, this timing coincides with the school year, which could complicate moves for candidates with children.

Housing options in Dixon are limited, a topic that has been under discussion by the Dixon City Council for the past year. A report from Illinois REALTORS in July 2025 indicated a troubling trend in the housing market, with rising prices and declining sales across the state.

The board will retain the residency requirement for now, but Rogers has indicated that they will reassess the situation if the number of applications remains low by mid-September. The current timeline suggests that the IASB will present an estimated six candidates to the board on October 15, 2025. Following this, the board plans to conduct interviews in closed sessions and select finalists. Those finalists will then meet with teachers and parents at a special gathering towards the end of October, prior to the board making its final decision.

As Dixon Public Schools navigates this crucial search, the balance between community loyalty and attracting top talent remains a pivotal focus for the board.