What Makes a Good Fit School? A Checklist for Parents

Rachel Pollock • November 12, 2025
  • Is there support for your student if they are struggling?
  • What are the class sizes?
  • Do the teachers personalize learning and know their students?
  • Does the school schedule work for your family?
  • Is the school accredited?
  • Does the school offer academic rigor for your child?
  • Does the school have a good reputation and location?
  • Are students college and career ready after graduation?

Choosing the Right School: Key Questions Every Family Should Ask

When families are looking for schools that fit their needs they may find themselves asking important questions before making a commitment to a private school.  While priorities vary between families and students, common concerns emerge during the decision making process.  Whether relocating or simply seeking a better educational fit, families are ultimately looking for one thing: success for their child.



The Power of Small Class Sizes: Boosting College and Career Readiness

First things first, While large class sizes may work for some students, national test scores are at a low, and many graduates aren’t meeting college and career readiness standards. In the September 2025 government report A broader Picture of Student Learning the US data shows “The full 2024 Nation’s Report Card shows declines between 2019 and 2024 in 4th, 8th, and 12th grades in math and reading and 8th grade science. And, except in 12th grade reading, the gaps between the highest- and lowest-performing students have widened in 2024. A third – 33% – of 12th graders were considered academically prepared for entry-level college math coursework in 2024, down from 37% in 2019. In reading, 35% of 12th grade students were considered academically prepared in 2024, down from 37% in 2019. Yet, surveys show an uptick in 12th graders who report being accepted to a four-year college, compared to 2019.“ (nagb.gov, 2025).  In contrast to large classrooms, smaller class sizes offer the opportunities for individualized support, collaboration and independent learning to prepare for the responsibilities of young adulthood. Smaller class sizes, such as one-to-one with adaptive instruction and curriculum, have a proven record of preparing youth for college and careers by building confidence and fostering responsibility through exploratory learning – key traits for success in adulthood.

 

https://www.nagb.gov/news-and-events/news-releases/2025/declines-in-8th-grade-science-and-12th-grade-math-and-reading.html


Why School Location Matters: Safety, Influence, and Daily Experience

On to the practical matters, when choosing a school location plays a key role in safety, student well-being, and convenience. A school's surrounding environment–including neighborhood safety, traffic, and access to healthy activities can influence how comfortable and engaged students feel. Children’s physical activity, mood, and physical activity correlated to parents' perception of safe outdoor activity in their neighborhood (Galaviz et. al., 2016). Daily conversation and how comfortable students feel in the school can be correlated with the crime rate in the area of the school.  A positive environment supports a positive mindset, which ultimately contributes to academic success.

Parental Perception of Neighborhood Safety and Children's Physical Activity - PubMed


Accreditation 

Meanwhile, some schools may offer convenience and small classroom sizes but they don’t offer the  accreditation needed to continue education after high school. Accreditation matters when considering graduation and higher education. Students work hard for their diplomas and deserve credit for their work as they move on to trade school or college.


A Good Fit School

All in all, educational needs vary by family.  With that being said, flexibility in scheduling, appropriately rigorous courses, and nurturing instructors are prudent to student success.  Accelerated courses work for performers with demanding schedules, as well as in credit recovery.  When a student is in an educational environment alongside instructors that adapt to student needs, confidence is built and students can meet their goals. Maybe your list wasn’t an exact match when you started your search for a new school.  However, seeing your student’s mindset shift from overwhelmed to confident is a goal for many families for multiple reasons.

 

Brightmont Academy 

One-to-one instruction at Brightmont Academy fosters college and career readiness, personalized learning, appropriate academic rigor, support for struggling learners, and flexible scheduling.  Brightmont Academy is here for your family with hundreds of courses and expert instructors. The Brightmont Academy accreditation, location considerations, flexible schedules, and student support check all of the boxes that matter the most when families are searching for the right educational fit for their students' success.  Connect with one of our campuses to meet with a Director.  Tour campus and ask about the higher education success Brightmont Academy students achieve.  Fulltime and skill building courses are offered year around to support your students' needs.


Sources:

Galaviz KI, Zytnick D, Kegler MC, Cunningham SA. Parental Perception of Neighborhood Safety and Children's Physical Activity. J Phys Act Health. 2016 Oct;13(10):1110-1116. doi: 10.1123/jpah.2015-0557. Epub 2016 Aug 16. PMID: 27254849; PMCID: PMC9879718.

National Assessment Governing Board. (2025). Nation's Report Card Shows Declines in 8th-Grade Science and 12th-Grade Math and Reading; Last in a Series of Post-Pandemic NAEP Data. nagb.gov


Rachel Pollock is an English and Social Studies Instructor at Brightmont Academy, freelance writer, and Chapter Advisor for Future Business Leaders of America. She holds a master’s degree in Psychology from American Military University and graduated with honors for research in social-emotional learning (SEL) in K–12 schools. With over six years classroom experience working with gifted and twice-exceptional (2E) students, Rachel brings professional insight and personal insight as a parent of gifted teens. She has elevated student voice through recognition in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards reflecting her commitment to creativity, academic rigor, and authentic expression. She is dedicated to supporting learners, families, and educators in a rapidly changing world.


Disclaimer: I am not a licensed clinical therapist and do not provide mental health counseling or therapy services. The information shared here is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as psychological diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. For personal mental health support, please consult a licensed mental health professional in your area.

More Blog Posts + News


Reluctant Teen

Brightmont Academy Builds Community Through Monthly Speaker Series

November 10, 2025
Private School in Mendota Heights Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Mendota Heights, MN — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is helping families stay informed and connected through its Speaker Series, a free monthly webinar designed to support parents and students. Hosted by Minnesota Campus Directors Michelle Platt of Mendota Heights and Jenny Sorenson of Plymouth, the virtual sessions feature expert speakers discussing topics that matter most to families—ranging from ADHD and adolescent anxiety to sleep issues and school transitions. The Speaker Series began as a way to make professional insight more accessible to Brightmont families. “A big part of my job is networking, and I’m constantly meeting trusted professionals through events, referrals, and outreach,” explained Platt. “The Speaker Series gives families direct access to these experts and helps parents feel connected while learning more about Brightmont Academy and the many resources available to them.” Each hour-long session allows parents to engage in real time with speakers and ask questions through a live chat. Topics have included ADHD, adolescent anxiety, evaluations, sleep, and school avoidance—issues that often impact students’ academic and emotional well-being. “Each speaker shares actionable tips for parents while also giving families a chance to learn more about Brightmont’s unique strengths, such as open enrollment, flexible scheduling, part-time and full-time options, skill building, and executive function programs,” said Platt. The response to the Speaker Series has been overwhelmingly positive. Families can RSVP for upcoming sessions on Brightmont’s website, and recordings are available afterward on Brightmont’s YouTube channel and social media platforms. “For me, the series has strengthened relationships with families and professionals, given me new insights as a director and parent, and expanded the network of resources I can confidently recommend,” Platt said. “Most importantly, it ensures Brightmont families feel supported not just by our school, but by a wider community of experts.” See our webinar recordings and RSVP to upcoming webinars. Brightmont Academy is located at 720 Main Street, Suite 101, in Mendota Heights and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, November 20th, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th

The Boy, The Horse, and The Lesson We Forget in Teaching

By Tony Beals • November 5, 2025
The Boy, The Horse, and The Lesson We Forget in Teaching
Alesia Stevenson

Brightmont Academy Raleigh Welcomes New Campus Director Alesia Stevenson

November 3, 2025
Private School in Raleigh Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Raleigh, NC — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alesia Stevenson as the new Campus Director of its Raleigh campus. Stevenson brings a rich background in education, business, leadership, and community engagement, along with a passion for helping students discover their strengths and succeed through personalized learning. Stevenson has spent her career fostering environments where both students and teams can thrive. She has worked extensively in education and organizational leadership, focusing on expanding access to resources and tailoring support to meet individual needs. As both an educator and a parent, Stevenson has experienced first-hand the life-changing impact of individualized instruction. “My background spans education and program development, often in environments where meeting students and families ‘where they are’ is essential,” said Stevenson. “That experience translates directly into Brightmont’s model, which focuses on tailoring instruction to each student’s unique strengths, challenges, and goals.” Stevenson first learned about Brightmont while researching alternative education models centered on the student learning experience. Brightmont’s one-to-one instruction stood out as both innovative and aligned with her vision of student success. “I was drawn to Brightmont because the role allows me to bring together my experience in education, leadership, and community engagement to create meaningful impact,” Stevenson said. “The opportunity to lead a campus where every student receives personalized support felt like a natural extension of my passion for helping young people succeed.” At Brightmont, Stevenson is eager to establish the Raleigh campus as a trusted resource for families seeking alternatives to the traditional classroom. She envisions a school community where students build confidence and resilience alongside academic progress. “My vision is to see our Raleigh campus grow into a trusted educational home for students and families seeking a more personalized path,” Stevenson said. “I believe Brightmont’s individualized approach will resonate in Raleigh, a dynamic city where families value strong, innovative educational options.” Brightmont Academy is located at 6070 Six Forks Rd in Raleigh and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Executive functioning student sitting at a desk

How Brightmont Supports Students with Executive Function Challenges

By Barb Farland • October 29, 2025
Vanessa seems to dawdle when her teacher asks her to begin her math assignment. Marcus has read the directions four times and still has no idea what to do. Shamanth opens his desk to try to find a pencil, which is buried under mounds of crumpled papers. Belinda raises her hand and, in sobs and tears, demands to go to the school counselor’s office. What’s up with these students? Are they being lazy, giving their teacher a hard time, and/or just having a bad day? Perhaps, but there’s also another strong possibility. All of these behaviors may indicate challenges in executive functioning. About Executive Function Executive functioning has very little to do with academic prowess and much more to do with the general operation of the brain. Healthcare and child development professionals typically identify eight important skills related to executive functioning: Initiation - The ability to begin a task Impulse control - The ability not to give in to temptation and behave accordingly Flexibility - The ability to shift from one task to the next Emotional control - The ability to behave appropriately despite contrary emotions Working memory - The ability to remember and apply instructions and other concepts Organization - The ability to create and abide by a system of tidiness Planning - The ability to understand the sequence of necessary steps to accomplish goals and tasks Self-monitoring - The ability to assess one’s own emotions, thoughts, physical condition, etc. Why are these specific capabilities so important? It’s all about what happens as a result. Executive functioning skills lead to effective decision-making, for example, thus poor executive functions could lead to choices that are unwise, emotionally driven, rash, etc., in relationships, physical health, and other areas of life.
Naperville building

Brightmont Academy Naperville Expands to Meet Rising Demand

October 27, 2025
Private School in Naperville Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Naperville, IL — Brightmont Academy, a private school offering one-to-one instruction for students in grades 1–12, is expanding its Naperville campus to include a new, larger location just over a mile from its current downtown site. The expansion comes in response to rapidly growing demand from local families seeking flexible, personalized education. Brightmont’s one-to-one model pairs each student with a dedicated teacher for every course, allowing for a truly customized approach to learning. This individualized format has drawn growing interest from families who want to see their children thrive academically and socially. Over the last two years, enrollment has grown quickly, prompting the need for more space. “We’re growing faster than our current space can hold!” said Lindsay Morales, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy Naperville. “The new campus gives us the space to keep up with demand and continue the amazing momentum of the last two years.” The new campus will feature double the number of classrooms compared to the current location, allowing Brightmont to welcome even more students into its supportive learning environment. With more classrooms and expanded facilities, Brightmont will be able to enrich its offerings and create more opportunities for student connection. “The new space opens the door to growing our enrollment and creating even more opportunities for student culture, social activities, and community connections,” Morales added. This expansion represents an exciting milestone for Brightmont Naperville. “Families are looking for a flexible, personalized school environment, and demand keeps rising! Expanding means we can welcome more students into the vibrant, supportive culture we’ve already built at Brightmont Naperville,” said Morales. “We couldn’t be more excited! With more classrooms, more opportunities, and more growth ahead, this is a huge step forward for our students, families, and teachers.” Brightmont Academy is located at 445 Jackson Ave in Naperville and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, November 20th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Tony Bs

The Many Faces of Masking and The Hidden Cost of “Fitting In”

By Tony Beals • October 22, 2025
Masking is one of the most exhausting parts of living with ADHD (and other forms of neurodivergence). On the surface, it looks like we’re “functioning.” Underneath, it feels like running a marathon in a costume that doesn’t fit.
Sarah Hermann portrait

Brightmont Academy Welcomes New Northville Campus Director, Sarah Hermann

October 20, 2025
Private School in Northville Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Northville, MI — Brightmont Academy, a fully accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, is proud to announce the appointment of Sarah Hermann as the new Campus Director of its Northville location. Hermann brings a diverse and dynamic background in athletics, education, and student development, with a passion for helping students reach their full potential. Hermann’s path to Brightmont is uniquely inspiring. Growing up, she played elite-level hockey and, at just 22, became the youngest NCAA lacrosse coach in the country. Beyond athletics, she has built a robust career in education, college admissions, and working with gifted and twice-exceptional students. “I was drawn to Brightmont because of its unique one-to-one model and commitment to truly personalized education,” said Hermann. “It’s a place where I can help students thrive in a way that’s tailored to who they are and where they want to go.” Hermann holds a Bachelor’s in Human Resource Management, a Master’s in Higher Education, and an Education Specialist degree, and is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Education in Innovation and Leadership. Her advanced education, combined with her experience across athletics and admissions, gives her a comprehensive perspective on student growth. “My experience in college admissions, athletics, and working with gifted and twice-exceptional students allows me to support students from multiple angles,” Hermann explained. “I’m passionate about helping each student discover their strengths and choose a path that fits their individual goals.” As she steps into her new role, Hermann is eager to strengthen the Northville campus community. “My goal is to grow the Northville campus into a strong, supportive community where every student feels empowered, challenged, and confident in their journey forward both academically and personally,” she said. Brightmont Academy looks forward to the innovation and energy Hermann will bring to the Northville campus, continuing the school’s mission to provide exceptional, individualized education that helps students succeed both in and beyond the classroom. Brightmont Academy is located at 15374 N. Haggerty Road in Northville and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, November 20th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.cademy is located in nine states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th

The Top Benefits of One-to-One Education for Middle and High School Students

By Barb Farland • October 15, 2025
The Top Benefits of One-to-One Education for Middle and High School Students
student and teacher sitting together

Brightmont Academy Offers Year-Round Enrollment to Support Student Success

October 13, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Students who remain in an unsuitable learning environment can experience declines in GPA, increased absenteeism, and higher stress levels. Brightmont Academy, a fully accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, reminds families that they don’t have to wait until the next school year to make a change. Thanks to rolling admissions, students can transfer to Brightmont at nearly any point and continue their education without falling behind. According to Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont Academy, one of the most common times families make the switch is in October. “October is one of Brightmont’s largest enrollment months,” Buckner said. “Why? Because we’re rolling admissions, which means if it’s not going well for your child in the first semester—whether they’re in freshman year, sophomore year, eighth grade, or sixth grade—don’t make them stick it out until the end. Make the change now and know that Brightmont is here to help you in making that change.” Buckner explained that the timing of a transfer doesn’t have to set a student back academically. “Students who come in October have ample time to take care of the first semester of whatever year they’re in, perhaps even stay for the second semester, but they will not lose pace with their peers,” Buckner said. Buckner also emphasized that many parents are unaware that mid-year enrollment is an option. “I think that’s a big concern kids have, and frankly, parents don’t always know that there’s an option,” she explained. “They think, ‘Oh, maybe next year we’ll change schools,’ or ‘maybe we’ll look at doing something different for the second semester.’ The best thing you can do is make the change earlier—before it hits the transcript if you’re in high school, or the report card if you’re in middle school. You can enroll at Brightmont and find a better, more personalized solution.” Brightmont Academy has served more than 4,000 students since its founding in 1999, helping children succeed academically through its unique one-to-one instruction model. The school offers open enrollment throughout the year, ensuring families can make the right decision for their child when it matters most. Brightmont Academy is located in nine states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
More Posts