Brightmont Academy’s Personalized Learning Fuels Student’s Bug Blog

At Brightmont Academy , I’ve worked with brilliant students who were labeled as “difficult”, “lazy” or “unsuitable” when really, they just needed different ways to engage.  Here are 4 simple ways to make any classroom more inclusive:

The Best Thing About Credit Recovery at Brightmont Academy Is That It doesn’t Take Months to Finish a Course

Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Brightmont Academy, a private school providing one-to-one instruction for students in grades 1–12, is celebrating its strongest year in company history. In 2025, Brightmont reached over 1,600 students nationwide, its highest total since the school was founded 25 years ago. CEO Karen Buckner says this milestone affirms what families have been seeking in today’s education landscape. “It was super exciting to be involved in a school setting where we're continuing to grow enrollment every year. And last year for 2025 was record enrollment for us.” According to Buckner, parents are increasingly looking for a setting where their children feel supported, understood, and academically encouraged. Brightmont’s one-to-one model and flexible learning structure have helped meet these needs. Buckner notes that many students have faced academic challenges in recent years, and families are prioritizing environments that adapt to individual learning needs. “I think it really validates what a lot of people are saying, that their kids need a personalized educational approach… our ability to meet the students where they're at, be in a one-to-one environment where the student doesn't have to feel self-conscious about any weaknesses… Brightmont fills both needs, and we do it very well.” Brightmont continues to see enrollment growth across elementary, middle, and high school levels. The school’s small, supportive setting has resonated with families who want a place where their child feels safe, welcomed, and motivated. With demand rising, Brightmont is preparing for another strong year. The school anticipates surpassing its record again in 2026 through both enrollment increases and campus expansion. “They are looking for personalized instruction. They're looking for a safe environment. They're looking for a place where their kid can feel welcomed and are excited about attending school… all of those trends are things that Brightmont has. 2026 is going to be a very exciting year for Brightmont.” In 2026, Brightmont plans to open several new locations, bringing its total to almost 30 campuses nationwide, doubling since 2023. Several existing campuses are also expanding or relocating to better serve growing student populations. Brightmont Academy is located in nine states, which will soon be ten next month, 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 23 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

Private School in Broomfield Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Broomfield, CO — 1 in every 31 children in the United States has autism, highlighting a growing need for community support, individualized learning options, and stronger connections for families. Brightmont Academy is proud to share that Cale Dunlap, Campus Director of the Broomfield location, is serving as a board member for the Autism Society of Boulder County (ASBC), an organization dedicated to empowering individuals and families affected by autism for more than two decades. Founded in 2001 as a parent support group, the Autism Society of Boulder County has grown into a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit and an affiliate of the Autism Society of America. The organization provides resources, social opportunities, and community-building programs for individuals on the autism spectrum across Boulder and Broomfield counties. Cale first became connected to ASBC through the parent of a former student who recognized his commitment to supporting neurodivergent learners. As Cale explains, “I had worked with his autistic son for years, and he appreciated the passion I have always had for helping neurodivergent students develop to their full potential.” Since joining the Board of Directors, Cale has collaborated with other members to expand the organization’s reach and provide meaningful experiences for families. ASBC offers a wide range of programs—including support groups, bike camps, rafting trips, and community-building events—that help families access resources they may not otherwise have. Cale has seen firsthand the impact of this work. “These programs have helped create a community of support for those who need it,” he said, noting that shared experiences and accessible activities strengthen both confidence and connection among participants. Cale’s involvement with ASBC has also influenced his work at Brightmont Academy. He shared, “Working with ASBC has helped me to be a more effective leader in my role at Brightmont Academy. It has allowed me to strengthen my connections to our local community and to engage with those people we are trying to serve.” This dual role allows Cale to better understand the challenges neurodivergent students and families face, ensuring Brightmont continues to offer pathways for students who need an alternative academic experience. Brightmont Academy is located at 549 Flatiron Blvd, Suite C in Broomfield 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 23 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

Falling Behind

Private School in Miami Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Miami, FL — Estimates vary, but Florida typically hosts about one million snowbirds who stay for at least a month during the winter. Among those escaping the cold are families who want to ensure their children’s education continues without interruption—and Brightmont Academy’s Miami campus is ready to make that possible. To Campus Director Monica Torres, this seasonal migration represents a unique opportunity for students to learn in a new environment without disruption. “When we talk about snowbird families, we’re referring to those who relocate temporarily to Florida—often during the colder months—to escape harsh winter weather up north or abroad,” said Torres. “At Brightmont, we absolutely love welcoming these families to our South Miami campus. Because our school runs on a fully individualized, one-to-one model, students can continue their academic programs seamlessly while enjoying the SoFlo sunshine!” Brightmont’s one-to-one structure provides the kind of adaptability that traditional classroom settings often cannot. Each student learns directly with a teacher who adapts lessons to their schedule, pace, and location, making it ideal for families splitting time between states. “Our one-to-one structure is what makes this possible,” Torres explained. “Every student here learns with their own teacher, on their own schedule, and at their own pace. That means we can create a plan that perfectly fits a snowbird family’s timeframe—whether you’re here for a couple of months or the whole season. We can even blend learning between in-person and online if you’re planning to travel further or head back home mid-year. It’s truly flexible, so education never has to pause for the adventure.” This approach has already attracted families from across the country who are eager to take advantage of both Florida’s sunshine and Brightmont’s consistent academic model. “This year we have a family from Boston—they love the Florida sunshine but also want consistency in their son's education,” said Torres. “What’s special is how quickly students settle in here—our small, welcoming environment makes it easy to feel at home.” As the snowbird season begins, Torres encourages families to reach out early to learn how Brightmont can help make the move effortless. “I’d love to connect!” she said. “Reach out to schedule a visit or virtual consultation—we can talk through their plans and see how Brightmont can make the transition easy and meaningful for their child.” Brightmont Academy is located at 6101 SW 76th Street in Miami 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 School Embraces Neurodiversity When choosing the right school the curriculum offered at the school must support students' needs. Some parents consider the use of adaptive digital platforms that support the needs of students who struggle with material management. Parents hope for Instruction from experts trained in adaptive curriculum and subjects so that they are prepared to adjust on the fly. Parents need to feel confident their child’s unique learning style will be supported and nurtured. Sensory Friendly Distraction-Reduced Spaces and Quiet Areas Small classrooms with a small teacher-to-student ratio allows for distraction-reduced spaces and quiet areas. Reducing distractions and disruptions from others allows the student in the smaller classroom to focus. In the 2020 research published in Science Direct students shared their experience about why they tended to gravitate towards the library in a traditional school. “The separate, more contained and manageable nature of the space is highlighted, as well as the more relaxed furnishings and homelike decor. The ‘quietness’ of the space is related to libraries typically being quiet places, but also…due to the presence of soft furnishings, carpets and books acting to dampen the sound. [Students} discuss the library as a social space, where they can ‘chat with friends’, in a more conducive environment than an invasive corridor or clattering classroom.” Focus and engagement are two important components to student success. When students feel at ease and successful they feel motivated to come back to school day after day and quench their curiosity in their academic subjects. Muting, filtering and transforming space: Autistic children's sensory ‘tactics’ for navigating mainstream school space following transition to secondary school - ScienceDirect Individual Attention

Private School in St. Charles Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students St. Charles, IL — Brightmont Academy, a private school offering one-to-one instruction for students in grades K–12, has named Meredith Hale as the new Campus Director of its St. Charles location. With extensive experience in personalized education and a deep commitment to student success, Hale will lead the campus as it continues to support students through individualized learning plans and a nurturing academic environment. Hale brings a unique background in private education, including founding and operating her own microschool for five years. In that role, she built customized learning paths for each student and led a team dedicated to supporting the academic and personal growth of every child. Her experience aligns directly with Brightmont’s mission to deliver a truly individualized approach to learning. “As an educational professional already familiar with the surrounding private school options, my knowledge of Brightmont began over a year ago,” said Hale. “When the prospect of a St. Charles location became a reality, I began a deep investigation. My decision to look closer was confirmed that very week when multiple former families mentioned Brightmont to me—a clear sign that I needed to know more.” Hale shared that her passion for student-centered learning is what drew her to this new role. “After closing my microschool, I reflected on my next steps, and my passion for serving the community through student education remained central,” she said. “I believe Brightmont excels at this, operating on the core philosophy that every single student deserves to be seen, known, and supported with an individually tailored learning plan. The growth possible in this environment is truly life-altering.” Hale is eager to expand the school’s offerings and help graduate students who are confident and ready for their next chapter. “My five-year vision is the successful operation of our fully accredited high school program, graduating many students, prepared for their next steps,” Hale said. “I see our rooms bustling with students of all ages, both those filling academic gaps and those accelerating through advanced curriculum. This will be supported by a joyful, serene atmosphere and dedicated staff who genuinely understand how to educate and know each student.” Brightmont Academy is located at 620 E Main St. in St. Charles and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and all are invited to attend an Open House event on Monday, December 15th, 2025, between 10 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