Dear Parents:

My husband and I welcomed our new bundle of joy, Timothy Van Huynh-Duc, on September 2, 2011. Though we couldn't be more elated, I do realize that this timing is rather inconvenient for your child as he/she starts 9th grade. I apologize!

I want you to know that I have searched high and low for my wonderful sub, Lora Doby, who is a licensed English teacher filling in for me during my absence. Ms. Doby has her Secondary English Education degree from UNC-G and many successful years of teaching both 9th grade and journalism under her belt. She took some time off to start her own private tutoring business, but she is very much looking forward to returning to the classroom--even if only on a temporary basis. She can be reached directly at loradoby@yahoo.com.

At this time, I plan to be out during all of first quarter (through October 28). Unless there is an emergency, I will not be responding to emails or phone calls during my leave because I want to focus solely on my new baby. However, I have already created all the lesson plans that Ms. Doby will be using, and hopefully my pre-planning and organization will ensure a very successful first quarter for your child.

If you have any issues during my leave, please contact Ms. Clark-Franceschini, the English Department Chair, at clarkfm@gcsnc.com.Even though this situation may be less than ideal, rest assured that your child will still have a fulfilling and educational year in 9th grade English!

Sincerely,

Melanie Huynh-Duc