BRHS—Fossum--2016-17 English 10 Honors (Blocks 1, 3, 4, 5) /English 12Academic (Block 6) Diana Fossum—203
In my effort to be more environmentally conscious, this letter and the class syllabus is offered online. If you prefer a hard copy, please have your child let me know.
WELCOME STUDENTS AND PARENTS It is my pleasure to collaborate with you in making this year an enjoyable and productive experience. We have a revamped building and renewed energy after the summer. Let’s make this a great year.
This is my twelfth year teaching, and my ninth at Broad Run. I majored in English and journalism at the University of Maryland and received my masters degree in secondary English education there as well. Prior to teaching, I volunteered and substitute taught as well as worked in publication jobs for trade associations. My husband, a consultant at Booz Allen, and I live in Ashburn and have three children (well adults, now). Our son is a junior at Virginia Tech, our youngest daughter works is a financial auditor living in Arlington, and our oldest daughter is pursuing her PharmD degree in Colorado. It is amazing how fast the time has passed and how quiet the house has become. We have a new puppy named Moby, a cream-colored golden retriever, who gets spoiled now that we are empty nesters. In the past few years I have become an avid practitioner of yoga—a great activity for all ages that I highly recommend. As a parent as well as a teacher, I can certainly empathize with the challenges of raising children in this competitive, diverse, and fast-paced community; consequently, I try to make my assignments and expectations relevant to my students’ daily lives. Please let me know if a circumstance arises that might affect your child’s performance and I will work with you to make any necessary accommodations.
Homework/Late Policy Late work will incur a 10% point deduction for each class day late --not to go below 50%, assuming the student gets the work in prior to one week before the end of the quarter. As in previous years, I will also offer a 70% remediation/recovery option for those willing to work for it.
Absences Please have your child connect with a “homework buddy” to retrieve handouts and notes, and check the Broad Run website for additional details: http://www.lcps.org/site/default.aspx?PageID=7239 Keep in mind that assignments missed during absences (regardless of reason) will be assessed TEMPORARILY as Z’s. Full credit will be restored when (and if) the assignments are completed within the number of days absent.Please plan ahead, for in the event a student is absent on the date that a long term project is due, he or she will still be subject to late penalties.
ContactYou may email me at or call the school at 571-252-2300, especially anytime after 2:30 pm. I am generally here until 5:30 pm (sometimes later!) should you have any questions or concerns.
LOOKING FORWARD TO A GREAT YEAR!!!