Dixon School Board Appoints Huyett as New Superintendent

Dixon Public Schools has appointed **Melydi Huyett** as the district’s next superintendent, succeeding current Superintendent **Margo Empen**, who will retire in **July 2026**. The decision was unanimously approved by the school board on **December 17, 2023**. Huyett, a native of Dixon, is currently serving as the principal of **Centennial Elementary School** in Polo and will officially begin her new role on **July 1, 2026**.

Huyett expressed her commitment to the community, 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 has a robust background in instructional leadership and district administration. She has been instrumental in enhancing math and English language arts programs, securing state and federal grants, and implementing technology initiatives at Centennial Elementary.

Linda Wegner, Board President, praised Huyett’s qualifications, affirming, “I believe that Dr. Huyett will approach every decision with kindness and respect.” Notably, Huyett is a product of Dixon Public Schools and views her new position as an opportunity to give back to the community that has played a significant role in her development.

Huyett has also served as a mentor for new principals across Illinois and has received accolades for her leadership skills. In **2015**, she was awarded the **Award of Excellence** in the administrator category during the Illinois State Board of Education’s **Those Who Excel** education awards program.

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

The board began preparations for the transition in October **2024**, ahead of Empen’s retirement. In December of that year, they approved a fee of **$8,400** to the **Illinois Association of School Boards** to assist with the search for a new superintendent, which commenced in **June 2025**.

During the board meeting, Vice President **Brandon Rogers** emphasized the importance of managing the transition period effectively before Huyett takes over. Board Secretary **Melissa Gates** proposed scheduling informal meet-and-greet sessions, although no official event has been announced yet.

As Dixon Public Schools prepares for this important leadership change, the community looks forward to Huyett’s vision and leadership in enhancing educational outcomes for its students.