Jenna Khalil – Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL)- When Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) Registrar Kristen Martin was named a finalist for district staff member of the year in the Excellence in Education awards, the school and administrators were ready.
Students and staff gathered quietly outside her office, ready with flowers, balloons, and applause—all part of a carefully planned celebration that highlighted just how much Martin means to the LRHS community.
According to LRHS Principal Dustin Dahlquist, the most meaningful part of organizing the surprise was recognizing the magnitude of Martin’s work.
“Any time a faculty or staff member has earned an honor or recognition, it is special,” Dahlquist said.
“I understand how difficult Ms. Martin’s job is as the School Registrar. She is responsible for an enormous amount of student data and information.”
Despite the size of the school—the largest in Manatee County—the celebration stayed under wraps more easily than expected. Dahlquist credited the teamwork behind the scenes.
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“Actually, it was easier than I thought it would be,” he said. “But I had to rely on Ms. (Senior Secretary Yesika) Salcido and Coach (Athletic Directory Kent) Ringquist to put together the plan and to get the flowers and balloons.”
Martin was selected for the Excellence in Education recognition because of the qualities she brings to LRHS every single day.
Her role demands precise record-keeping, reliable communication, and a deep understanding of student needs. Yet colleagues say she consistently goes above and beyond those expectations.
Her attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and unwavering commitment to accuracy ensure that each student’s academic path is cared for with precision.
With thousands of student records, schedules, and transitions to manage, her work forms the backbone of the school’s operation—often behind the scenes, but never unnoticed.
The award reflects not just her technical skill, but the positive impact she has on both students and staff.
By managing essential academic information with care, she helps students stay on track, supports teachers with accurate data, and keeps the school running smoothly.
For the Mustang community, the surprise celebration was more than balloons and congratulations—it was a moment to honor someone whose dedication helps hold the school together each day.