Hickory Public Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Kqisha Dagenhart as the new principal of Oakwood Elementary School. The selection of Dagenhart comes after the retirement of longtime principal Ms. Terry Ashley.
Dagenhart is an accomplished educator with a proven track record of success in fostering academic excellence and creating a collaborative work environment that prioritizes student needs. With her unique set of skills and leadership abilities, she will lead Oakwood Elementary School toward even greater achievements.
Throughout her career, Dagenhart has led her school through two North Carolina Schools to Watch Re-designations reflected in the academic and social-emotional structures she implemented. She has demonstrated a deep commitment to the growth and development of young learners and empowering teacher leaders to support instructional initiatives.
"We are looking forward to Ms. Dagenhart joining the HPS family. We are confident she will have a positive impact on student outcomes at Oakwood Elementary School.," said Dr. Bryan Taylor, Hickory Public Schools Superintendent.
Dagenhart expressed her eagerness about joining Oakwood Elementary School, stating, “I am excited for this new opportunity to join Hickory Public Schools as principal of Oakwood Elementary! Oakwood has a rich tradition of academic excellence and community involvement. I look forward to continuing these traditions as I work to build relationships with the students, staff, and the Oakwood community. I am passionate about curriculum and instruction and providing students with the educational tools to meet their full potential. My goal is to work together with families and teachers to support them in equipping our students with the resources to ensure each student's success.”
Dagenhart holds a Master's in Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and completed the Educational Specialist in Educational Administration and a School Administration Licensure Program at Appalachian State University. She has 18 years of experience in the field of education. Before joining Hickory Public Schools, she was the principal at North Lincoln Middle School in the Lincoln County School District.
Dagenhart officially assumes her role as principal of Oakwood Elementary School on July 3rd, 2023.