From left to right: Mrs. Beck Room 210, Mrs. Rickerby Room 214, Mr. Swavely Room 215,
Mrs. Ali-Warmkessel Room 213, Mrs. China Instructional Support

I have been teaching in Allentown School District for 25 years.  I am married and have 2 cats named Mason and Tucker. I love reading, cats, travel, and spending time with my friends and family.  My goal is that all of my 3rd graders will grow their brains and grow their hearts this year.   --Mrs. Laura Beck

Hello my name is Marlene Rickerby. I have been teaching at Dodd for 16 years, and have taught third grade for 14 of those years. I live at home with my husband and my two children, Liam and Olivia. I love teaching and can’t wait to share some new, exciting skills and strategies with my students. My goal for this year is to celebrate growth, create an inviting classroom and instill the love of learning to each and every student in school and beyond.

I have been an elementary teacher for 19 years and often have coffee stains on my shirt. --Mr. Swavely

Hello everyone! I’m very excited to grow and learn with you all. This is my 5th year at Dodd Elementary, 18th year in teaching. I am from Texas, and moved to Pennsylvania in 2004. I have a very BIG family and a tiny dog named Oreo. A fun fact about me is that I love chocolate covered pretzels!--Mrs. Ali-Warmkessel

I have been teaching for 21 years,  17 of them here in Allentown.   I have three children, a dog and a guinea pig.  I enjoy reading, gardening and lacrosse.  I look forward to having a great year with everyone.   --Mrs. China