Staff & Teachers
Dr. Bradley Swiger, Principal
Dr. Swiger is an accomplished educational leader with more than twenty years of experience in Kâ12 schools. He holds a Doctor of Education in Educational and Organizational Leadership, along with advanced degrees in School Administration and Educational Leadership. Dr. Swiger has served in multiple leadership roles throughout Pittsburgh. He oversaw curriculum development, student support services, teacher performance, data-driven instructional improvement, budgeting, safety initiatives, and the successful implementation of major technology and academic programs.
Earlier in his career, Dr. Swiger served as Dean of Instruction and Director of Technology at Vincentian Academy, leading faculty development, securing significant technology grants, and supporting strong student outcomes. His background as a teacher, mentor, and instructional coach, combined with experience managing budgets in the private sector, informs his practical and collaborative leadership style. Dr. Swiger is committed to building equitable, student-centered learning environments and strengthening school systems through data-informed decision-making and strong organizational practices.
Sydney Spahr, Teacher, 3rd & 4th Grade Form
Ms. Spahr earned her Bachelor of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education from Kent State University and holds Pennsylvania Instructional I certification for grades PKâ4. She brings more than five years of experience working with young children.
Ms. Spahr's experience has focused on creating child-centered classrooms built around strong relationships, consistency, and routines. She has experience differentiating instruction to meet individual student needs, monitoring student progress, supporting literacy development, and using positive behavior supports and clear, consistent expectations. Her calm, patient, and welcoming approach will be a wonderful fit for our students.
Jessica McGinnis, Teacher, 5th & 6th Grade Form
Ms. McGinnis brings a wealth of experience in elementary education, art, literacy, and differentiated instruction. She earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and an Art Education Certificate from Carlow College. She holds a Pennsylvania Instructional I Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education and Art Education.
Her teaching experience includes Title I reading, accelerated math, summer education programs, and substitute teaching across multiple elementary grade levels. She has also worked extensively with diverse learners and has a strong background in communication, organization, creativity, and individualized instruction. Her experience has strengthened her ability to manage complex projects, communicate ideas visually, and approach problems creatively, skills we know will be valuable in our 5thâ6th grade classroom.
Jessica Frick, Teacher, Kindergarten-2nd Grade Form
Ms. Frick brings more than seven years of classroom experience, along with a strong background in elementary and special education. She holds a B.A. in Elementary and Special Education from Point Park University, as well as an M.Ed. in Reading Specialist from California University of Pennsylvania. She holds Pennsylvania Instructional II certifications in both special education and elementary education.
Ms. Frick has experience teaching students in grades Kâ6, including extensive experience supporting neurodiverse learners. Her background includes developing individualized instruction, writing IEPs and 504 plans, incorporating hands-on and project-based learning, and creating supportive classroom communities. She is a caring and motivated educator who is deeply committed to creating a safe, supportive, and energetic learning environment.
Learning That Feels Like Childhood
Childhood is full of curiosity, discovery, and wonder. At Dogwood Charter School, we believe learning can be too. Our K-6 approach combines engaging academics with hands-on experiences, time in nature, and opportunities for children to explore the world around them.