Dr. Kelly Linkenhoker brings extensive experience as a high school principal, district leader, instructional supervisor, and coach, with a proven record of advancing academic achievement, strengthening school culture, and building high-performing leadership teams.
Professional Background
Dr. Linkenhoker joins OCA from Salem City Schools in Salem, Virginia, where she most recently served as Principal of Salem High School. Her leadership focused on rigorous academics, instructional quality, attendance, and student conduct through collaborative systems and clear expectations.
During her three-year tenure, Salem High School achieved significant, measurable growth, rising from
208th to 48th statewide and from
11th to 2nd in the Roanoke Valley, according to
U.S. News & World Report (2025–26).
Leadership Philosophy
Dr. Linkenhoker is known for:
- Designing and leading effective leadership teams
- Collaborating with staff, families, and community stakeholders
- Establishing shared mission, vision, and performance goals
- Building trust-based relationships and maintaining open communication
Her educational philosophy aligns closely with Pinnacle Charter Schools’ mission of providing a rigorous, supportive, and future-focused learning environment for every student.
Education & Credentials
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Educational Leadership & Organizational Behavior — Vanderbilt University
- M.S., Administration & Supervision — Radford University
- M.A., Curriculum & Instruction — Virginia Tech
- B.S., Family Child & Development — Virginia Tech
Certifications:
Division Superintendent License | Administrative License (PK–12) | Teaching License (PK–8) | Reading Recovery Certified Instructor | Dyslexia Advisor | LETRS Trained (Cohorts 1 & 2)
Quotes
Chris Swisher, Board Chair, Oceanside Collegiate Academy:
“Dr. Kelly Linkenhoker is a proven, people-first leader who knows how to build strong schools and even stronger cultures. She brings deep experience, contagious energy, and an unwavering commitment to students and teachers. Kelly leads with authenticity and transparency, setting high expectations while building trust and belonging. We are thrilled to welcome a principal whose leadership, character, and vision align seamlessly with Oceanside’s mission and long-term strategic direction.”
Mike Lorenz, Interim Principal & Director of Academics and Accountability:
“The principal search committee unanimously selected Dr. Linkenhoker. She is a strong leader who puts students first and will do an outstanding job leading OCA to the next level.”
Mark Meyer, Athletic Director, Oceanside Collegiate Academy
“I’m excited to see Kelly Linkenhoker named Principal at Oceanside Collegiate Academy. She’s a teacher’s principal and that matters. Just like we want coaches to be players’ coaches, teachers need a leader who supports them, understands their work, and still holds a high standard. That’s the foundation Oceanside was built on and how you build a strong culture, and that’s good for all of us at Oceanside.”
Danielle Barrineau, Teacher of the Year, Oceanside Collegiate Academy
“We are so excited to welcome Kelly Linkenhoker to OCA. Throughout the interview process, our committee was impressed by her genuine passion for building strong relationships with students, teachers, and families. Her positivity and leadership will be a wonderful addition to our school.”
Dr. Kelly Linkenholker:
“I believe every student deserves a rigorous, supportive, and future-focused educational experience. I am honored to serve the Oceanside Collegiate Academy community.”
About Oceanside Collegiate Academy: Oceanside Collegiate Academy (OCA), located in Mt. Pleasant, S.C., serves high school students in a safe, small and family-centered setting. Our students seek the opportunity and challenge of rigorous curriculum, high academic standards and elite athletics while earning up to two years of college credit. OCA serves students in grades 9-12 using an honors curriculum in 9th and 10 grades with a dual enrollment curriculum in 11th and 12th grades
Learn more about OCA by visiting our website at OceansideCollegiate.Academy and by following us on social media on Facebook, Instagram and X. For video content, visit our YouTube channel.
