Who We Are
Rural Roots Academy is focused on making learning fun and flexible. We absolutely believe that quality education is important, and we’re here to help you achieve that in a way that fits your family needs and schedules.
The world is changing and we’re here for it! We have certified teachers here to help students through their schoolwork in a way that makes learning fun, flexible, and achievable while still being able to focus on other passions and priorities in one’s life.
Every student and family deserve a lifestyle and education that is unique to them, and we’re here to help!
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We are looking forward to building a positive learning community.
Laura Sloan (Teacher/Founder)
With over 10 years of teaching experience in the Lakeland area, Laura took a step back from the traditional classroom to spend more time with her family. While she loves spending time with her family on their farm, her passion for teaching, learning, and engaging with young people and families never wavered. She realized that if she values learning, but wants something flexible and suitable for her family and lifestyle, this must be the case for so many other families. And with that Rural Roots Academy was born! Laura can't wait to meet the students and families that are seeking a fun and flexible education experience.
Jolene Fodness(teacher):
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With over 20 years of teaching experience in St. Paul and the surrounding county, Jolene continues to pursue her passion for educating and learning. Understanding that we can all learn, but not always in the same way or at the same time, Jolene has been learning new strategies and working to provide a variety of ways to learn in the classroom.
She looks forward to introducing engaging and motivating activities to help improve student understanding of concepts and application of skills.
Chantelle St.Arnault (student support):
Chantelle has dedicated over 14 years to supporting K-5 students as an Education Assistant in St. Paul. Her expertise lies in literacy, and she has spent the past 3 years as an Inclusive Education Assistant on a Literacy Team.
Chantelle is passionate about fostering strong reading skills in elementary students and has been a St. Paul resident for over 18 years.
Lori Bacque (Mental Health Liaison)
With over 15 years of experience working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds in Child and Family Services and as a School Counselor, Lori is continuing to pursue her passion for Mental Health by completing her Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. She specializes in anxiety and depression, interpersonal skills, peer relationships, life transitions, school issues, self-esteem,self compassion, and more.
Lori builds the foundation of her relationships on safety and trust and creates a warm, open, and welcoming space where any individual is feels comfortable exploring their experiences. She also brings humor to many of her session to foster connection, promote resilience and contribute to the healing process. She understands that reaching out for support can be hard, but welcomes it - in whatever way that looks best for you.
Lori looks forward to being a part of the Rural Roots team as your Mental Health Liaison, and encourages students and families to reach out so she can walk the journey with you to becoming (or re-becoming) your authentic self.
