Welcome to Mrs. Futoma & Dr. Lavoie’s Class

Middle School ELA

Welcome to Middle School! We are incredibly excited for you to be a part of our classroom community! In our classroom, we will promote critical thinking and creativity, demonstrate the relevance of reading, writing, and history to our lives, and foster a community of lifelong learners. Students will acknowledge and support each other as both learners and critical thinkers. Within our community, Iweask that students always bring an open mind, a positive attitude, and a growth mindset to class each day. We will work together and learn to be leaders, collaborators, and advocates within the classroom and the larger community. 

About Mrs. Futoma: I am originally from Rhode Island and graduated summa cum laude with a BA in English and Secondary Education from Roger Williams University. I have had the opportunity to teach in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Hawaii, and I love working with middle schoolers. I am an avid reader, especially of middle grade and young adult books, so I can always provide kids with a new recommendation and enjoy reading their favorite books, as well! 

I feel so blessed to be part of the St. Michael’s community. Feel free to email me anytime at kfutoma@smsfr.dfrcs.org 

About Reading Literature: This year we will all grow as readers and learners! We will read a wide breadth of texts, including short stories, informational articles, novels, and much more! As we read and discuss literature, we will strengthen our reading comprehension and analysis skills, learn vocabulary, and build knowledge. We will also examine how the texts we read connect to our Catholic faith. My goal is to foster a love of reading in all students! 

Supplies: Students need to bring an independent reading book to every class. They are welcome to either bring a book from home or borrow one from the classroom library. Students are also highly encouraged to donate tissues for classroom use. Students should have a pair of wired headphones for use with their Chromebooks.

About Dr. Lavoie: I am originally from Fall River, Massachusetts and currently reside in Westport, Massachusetts with my husband, daughter, and miniature Poodle. We enjoy spending summers outdoors with family and friends, especially near the ocean!

I received an Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene Science from Bristol Community College, a Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene Science from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, a Master’s Degree in Public Policy, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, and a Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. I was employed in higher education for more than 15 years as a professor, director, and associate dean before transitioning into elementary and secondary education. My doctoral research concentrated on English Language Literacy and has been a long-time passion of mine. I have also earned certificates in language literacy training and phonemic awareness training. 

I am so excited to be a part of the Saint Michael’s School family and look forward to working together! My emails is alavoie@smsfr.dfrcs.org.

About the English Composition Class: we will work together enhancing reading and writing literacy. Students will work as a community supporting each other.  Classroom exercises will include grammar, writing, phonics, and reading composition. 

We are always on the lookout for classroom supplies: hand sanitizer, tissues, and disinfecting wipes so we can stay healthy while we enjoy learning together. Students should each have a pair of wired headphones for use in the classroom.