Lakewood Ranch High principal named Rangeland High's first leader

Dustin Dahlquist, an educator of Manatee County for 30 years, has been announced as the founding principal of Rangeland High School in Lakewood Ranch, which is under construction. It will open in August 2027. 

Dahlquist has held positions at Southeast High School, Palmetto High School, and Buffalo Creek Middle School before his current role as principal at Lakewood Ranch High since January 2019.

“Our success at Lakewood Ranch High School is a testament to what a dedicated faculty, staff and community can achieve," Dahlquist said in a release. "As I look toward opening Rangeland High School, I am inspired by the opportunity of building a culture, a vision and a legacy from day one."

The School District of Manatee County will begin to advertise the search for a new Lakewood Ranch High School principal, which will include a survey of the school community. 

“Launching a new high school is an exciting moment for our district and community,” Superintendent Laurie Breslin said. “Dustin has the vision and leadership to build Rangeland High School into a model of excellence, one that reflects our shared commitment to student success and community pride.”