City Charter High School

Michelle Fossum

Michelle Fossum
Director of Enrollment and Strategic Communications

As an accomplished educator and school leader, Michelle Fossum brings a wealth of experience from her many experiences in innovative, urban educational environments.  Her career at City Charter High School has spanned almost 20 years. During that time, she has worked as an Information Literacy teacher, been in leadership roles as an Educational Leader and a grade-level team leader, and also served as a mentor to many of her fellow staff members. Currently, Michelle works as the Director of Enrollment and Strategic Communication, using a nuanced and strategic approach to coordinate all of the school’s recruitment and marketing efforts as well as internal and external communications to students, staff, families, and the community through newsletters, announcements, and social media. She is also the proud City High parent of a Class of 2025 student!

Michelle holds a K-12 Administration certificate, an M.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration, and a Master of Library Science, complemented by teaching certificates in English and Library Science. Michelle earned her bachelor's degree from Penn State in English,  with a focus on creative writing and a minor in Architectural History.  Before her tenure at City High, Michelle's career path showcased her versatility, including stints as a graphic artist for a meteorologic company, a museum library archivist, and a high school librarian. 

Amazon Fuels Tech Dreams: City Charter High School Student Awarded up to $40,000 College Scholarship to Pursue Computer Science, Engineering

Amazon Fuels Tech Dreams: City Charter High School Student Awarded up to $40,000 College Scholarship to Pursue Computer Science, Engineering

Destiny Downer is among 400 Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship recipients to receive an up to $40,000 scholarship to study computer science or engineering starting this fall, a potential paid internship at Amazon after their freshman year of college, and more Read more

City Charter High School Students and Teachers Embark on Transformative Journey to Costa Rica

City Charter High School Students and Teachers Embark on Transformative Journey to Costa Rica

City Charter High School's Latin American Studies International Service Learning Program recently returned to Costa Rica with 14 students and 4 teachers. Engaging in community service and exploring rainforests, the trip fostered empathy and global citizenship. Read more

City Charter High School Achieves Middle States Accreditation, Unveils Strategic Objectives for 2023-2030

City Charter High School Achieves Middle States Accreditation, Unveils Strategic Objectives for 2023-2030

City Charter High School proudly announces its official Middle States Accreditation, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and inclusive learning for grades 9-12. The accreditation aligns with strategic objectives for 2023-2030, emphasizing equity, honors, and student well-being. Read more

City High Receives Commendation for Its Cafeteria Program

City High Receives Commendation for Its Cafeteria Program

City High's School Food Services received commendation from the PA Department of Education for their fresh ingredient use and emphasis on scratch cooking. The recognition underscores dedication to nutrition excellence. Read more

City Charter High School Certified as a High-Quality Charter School

City Charter High School Certified as a High-Quality Charter School

City High was recognized by the PA Coalition of Public Charter Schools (PCPCS) as a High-Quality Charter School. Read more

City High CEO Dr. Dara Ware Allen Named to Carnegie Hero Fund Commission Board.

City High CEO Dr. Dara Ware Allen Named to Carnegie Hero Fund Commission Board.

The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission names City High CEO Dr. Dara Ware Allen to its board. The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission recognizes and supports those who perform acts of heroism in civilian life in the United States and Canada. Congratulations Dr. Allen! Read more

City High Alum Joins Gov. Shapiro Administration

City High Alum Joins Gov. Shapiro Administration

City High Alumni Class of 2011 Larry Hailsham joins Gov. Shapiro's administration. Read more