May News

Tiffany Samson • May 12, 2020

Online Instruction Updates

Brightmont Academy has surpassed 18,000 online sessions across all our campuses! We appreciate all of our students' effort in the last few weeks. We are getting through this! While stay-at-home orders are still in effect, we are looking forward to when the governors announce it is safe to re-open schools. We will communicate plans to return to campus when more information becomes available.

Teacher Appreciation Week

May 4-8th was Teacher Appreciation Week! We're sad we didn't get to have our annual celebrations during Teacher Appreciation Week this year. Our students expressed "thanks" to their teachers during their online instruction sessions. We are so fortunate and grateful for our team of dedicated teachers!

New Students

We are pleased to welcome our new students that have enrolled! Our new students include 2 6th graders at our Northville campus, a 6th grader at our Deer Valley campus, an 8th grader at our Seattle campus, a 9th grader and 10th grader at our Castle Pines campus, a 10th grader at our Sammamish campus, a 7th grader at our Redmond campus, and new students at our Scottsdale campus.

Student Highlights

Congratulations to our seniors who are rounding the final bend of high school! We have 34 seniors graduating! We are adapting and postponing our graduation celebrations to stay aligned with stay-at-home orders. Here are a few of our graduates and their college acceptances.

A group of young people are standing next to each other and smiling.

Pictured (left to right): Carter, Noah, Robby, Nolan


Carter is planning to study Data Science at University of Michigan Ann Arbor this fall.


Noah was recently accepted to Oakland University Honors College - School of Engineering and Computer Science. He also received the Oakland University Academic Achievement Award. His scholarship totals $10,000.


Robby is planning to attend Oakland Community College this fall, and then he plans to transfer to Michigan State University in the future. His goal is to work for the Department of Natural Resources to help conserve the environment.


Nolan has been accepted and is going to attend The New School in NYC, studying Jazz and Contemporary Music at their College of Performing Arts!


We are thrilled to share news about a very distinguished award received by one of our students in Birmingham, MI. Haleigh earned the President's Volunteer Service Award for over 200 hours of community service while she was in China last summer! Her letter from the President says, "Each generation of hardworking and kindhearted volunteers helps to write a new chapter of American greatness, and our Nation is proud for your commitment to this honorable tradition."

A woman is holding a piece of paper with chinese writing on it.
A woman and a little boy are posing for a picture on a sidewalk.

Pictured: Haleigh, Volunteer Service Award letter from the President, Haleigh and student


Students are still getting hands on in their science classes. Our Deer Valley students have become resourceful and are using their backyards to creatively participate in their science projects - collecting soil, rocks, bugs, and more!

Scheduling

Take advantage of Brightmont's year-round offerings. Schedule a course this summer to get ahead and have a lighter course load next year or consider a skill-building program to strengthen key skills before the new school year begins. Enrollment for the 2020-21 academic year has also begun! Schedule and teacher requests are first-come first-served. Please contact a campus director to talk about enrollment.

Teacher Training Improves Student Learning

Brightmont provides training and professional development to our teachers to optimize your student's learning experience. Every week, teachers are given a new strategy or tool to apply to instructional sessions. Implementing these into one-to-one sessions helps students in areas such as motivation, focus, memory, pacing and comprehension. We have seen students become more empowered and engaged.



One of our latest tips for teachers was using a digital whiteboard which enhances collaboration and supports real-time visual learning needs. Our math teachers have been using this tool and have found it to be very helpful in our remote learning environment.

NEW! Reading Intervention Program

A book icon in an orange circle on a white background.

We are excited to announce our new Reading Intervention Program for students in K-12. This program is specially designed for students who struggle with reading and/or dyslexia. We help students improve as readers by using a multi-sensory curriculum based on the Orton-Gillingham approach. Learn more on our website and contact us if are interested in adding this program to your child's schedule.

College and Career Readiness

College Changes in Response to COVID-19

Application deadlines and requirements have changed for some colleges. Check the admissions department of the college you are interested in for specific details. A few changes include:



  • extension of application deadlines
  • allowance of unofficial transcripts
  • elimination of ACT/SAT test score requirements


Sophomores, juniors and seniors can take advantage of these opportunities and resources:


  • Online College Courses: Colleges across the nation are now offering more online courses in response to school closures. High school students can get ahead by taking college credit courses at their school of choice.
  • Virtual Tours: Colleges are now offering virtual tours in lieu of campus visits during social distancing.
  • Scholarships: Deadlines for some scholarships have been extended.


ACT® and SAT® Testing Dates


The June 6th SAT test date has been cancelled. The next anticipated test date is August 29, 2020. Get updates.

ACT is offering test dates on June 13th and July 18th at testing centers. If testing centers are not open, a makeup test date will be scheduled one week later. ACT test at home proctoring will begin late fall of 2020/early winter. Check the ACT website for more testing options and important updates.


AP® Exams


The College Board has scheduled AP exams from May 11-22 and students can take them at home. These are online, free-response exams that require all students worldwide to test at the same time. The exams will only cover topics that most teachers covered in class by early March. Learn more.

Upcoming Holiday

In observance of Memorial Day, students will not have class sessions on May 25.

Productivity Tips for Students

1. Create a designated area in your home for school work. Keep it functional but not too comfortable. Only use this area for classes and school work.


2. Create a daily schedule and stick to it.



3. Be on time and mentally ready for class sessions.

More Blog Posts + News


student and teacher working at a desk

Brightmont Academy Offers Lifeline for Students Facing Academic Anxiety

August 18, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — An estimated 31.9% of adolescents have experienced an anxiety disorder in their lifetime, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. For many students, anxiety shows up most clearly in the classroom—when expectations are high, the workload feels overwhelming, and it seems impossible to catch up or keep up. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, has become a trusted option for families whose children are experiencing academic anxiety. Whether students are dealing with perfectionism, school-related burnout, or falling behind in core subjects, Brightmont provides a flexible and supportive environment to help them reset and succeed. “Academic anxiety can rear its head in many different ways, sometimes requiring medical or therapeutic professionals as well as a change in the school environment,” said Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont Academy. “If a student is struggling, Brightmont steps in and says, ‘Here’s a plan. Here’s a solution. Here’s how we move forward.” Brightmont’s one-to-one model means each student works with one teacher at a time, in a quiet, distraction-free setting tailored to their learning pace and style. Rolling admissions allow students to enroll at any time during the year, so they don’t have to wait for a new semester to make a change. “We had a student come to us feeling defeated,” Buckner recalled. “They didn’t want to return to school, and their parents knew something had to change. We created a plan to make up missed credits, start fresh, and stay on track for graduation. That’s the kind of support families are looking for when everything else feels overwhelming.” Brightmont’s approach is beneficial for students whose anxiety is tied to academic performance or the educational environment. Instead of letting poor grades, missed deadlines, or pressure to perform define a student’s experience, Brightmont helps them regain confidence and control. “As a parent, one of the best things we can do when a student is spiraling downward is to provide a ladder out of the hole—not just stand on the surface with our kids,” Buckner added. “And I think that’s exactly what Brightmont does. We help students climb out and move to the next level.” Brightmont Academy has helped thousands of students succeed in a setting where they feel seen, supported, and capable of thriving. Brightmont Academy is located in eight 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 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, 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

Mastery

By Barbara Farland • August 13, 2025
Beyond Good Grades: Strategies for Mastery

Brightmont Academy Relocates to Serve More Students in Growing Community

August 12, 2025
Private School in Birmingham Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Birmingham, MI — Brightmont Academy’s Birmingham campus has officially relocated to a larger and more modern facility to meet the growing demand for its one-to-one instructional model. Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, outgrew its previous location on Woodward Avenue and has moved into a significantly expanded space designed to support more students and educators. The new campus features double the number of classrooms compared to the former building, creating a more spacious and serene environment for learning. According to Annette Looser, Campus Director at Brightmont Birmingham, the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. “Every new family who has visited us so far has loved the space,” said Looser. “It is a very calm and welcoming environment with twice as many classrooms as our former location. We have had a lot of new families from the area enroll their students in our summer programs, and we expect to keep up with the demand we are receiving so far for full-time students this fall.” The additional square footage not only allows Brightmont to serve more families but also to hire more educators from the surrounding area. The school’s nationally accredited one-to-one instruction model has proven especially effective for students who need individualized attention, including those who have struggled in traditional classroom settings. “The increase in square footage will allow us to help more families that want to enroll their students for the fall,” Looser said. “It will also allow us to employ more teachers from the area.” Brightmont has served thousands of students nationwide through its unique approach to learning, which pairs each student with a dedicated teacher in every subject. With this new location, the school reaffirms its commitment to making education personal, flexible, and successful for every learner. “I thrive on helping people succeed, so my dream for the new location is to help as many families as possible who need a new school environment for their child, especially parents who feel desperate or who have students who are avoiding school,” Looser added. Brightmont Academy is located at 746 E Maple Rd. in Birmingham and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, August 21, 2025, between 8:00 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 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, 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
A group of students. Image credit: Adobe Stock Free Collection

A Smooth Transition into the New School Year

By Rachel Pollock • August 6, 2025
A Smooth Transition into the New School Year

Brightmont Academy Shines a Spotlight on Outstanding Teacher Gillian Buckardt

August 4, 2025
Private School in Northfield Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Northfield, IL — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is proud to recognize science and math instructor Gillian Buckardt, who has been with the school for the past two and a half years. Known for her compassion, dedication, and belief in the power of one-to-one education, Gillian has become a vital part of the Brightmont community. She first discovered Brightmont through a recruiter who encouraged her to apply. “I was a recent graduate at the time, and the role called to me—when I was in high school, I attended a similar one-to-one school that helped me tremendously during a difficult time. I wanted to give that positive experience back to other young people,” she shared. Brightmont’s one-to-one approach allows teachers like Gillian to meet students exactly where they are, both academically and emotionally. “The one-to-one learning method truly lets the student shine and thrive in a classroom built just for them. It removes so many barriers from effective teaching, and I’m able to meet the student directly where they're at in their life,” she explained. For Gillian, the impact of this method is best reflected in her students’ growth. One of her first students came to Brightmont after struggling to get accommodations following a disabling injury. “She had an abounding passion for science, and we nurtured that spark in an environment where she could heal at her own pace,” Gillian shared. “After a year of excelling, she moved to a new school and confidently presented her research at a science fair. Even now, she still returns to Brightmont for tutoring and stays in close touch—it’s been an honor to see her grow.” What makes Brightmont special, Gillian says, is the sense of connection. “I simply love the community of Brightmont. There is something wonderful that grows from working on a small campus and being able to build such strong relationships between staff and students.” Brightmont Academy is honored to have educators like Gillian Buckardt, who go above and beyond to ensure every student has the support, attention, and encouragement they need to thrive. Brightmont Academy is located at 1799 Willow Road in Northfield and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, August 21, 2025, between 9:00 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 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, 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

Brightmont Academy Helps Students in Treatment Facilities Stay on Track

July 28, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is helping students continue their education while receiving care for mental health, substance use, eating disorders, and other personal challenges. According to the CDC, more than 1 in 5 children have been diagnosed with a mental, emotional, or behavioral health condition by the time they turn 17. For some, the best step forward includes time away from a traditional school environment in a treatment facility. Brightmont provides a path to recovery that doesn’t derail academic progress. For many families, that diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially when it disrupts a student’s academic journey. Brightmont understands these moments and offers a path forward that puts both mental wellness and education at the center. “I think for some kids, it's very hard to deal with the pressures of life when they come at you all the time,” said Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont. “Compartmentalizing things is probably a skill we learn over time. Many kids, 12 to 20, don't have that capability but need it. And so, there are kids who, to deal with challenges—whether it be substance abuse, mental health issues, eating disorders, whatever it is—may need to leave a different environment and just focus on that for a little while.” Students can take a break when needed and resume school with one-to-one instruction tailored to their pace, schedule, and emotional readiness. “In the back of their minds and their parents' minds, for many of them, they never thought they'd be in this situation,” Buckner added. “And all they can think about is, ‘Oh my gosh, there goes their sophomore year in high school, their seventh grade, half of their sixth grade.’ With Brightmont, we can help them get back to where they need to be and on pace for their age group.” Brightmont’s flexible structure—with year-round enrollment, rolling admissions, and personalized pacing—makes it an ideal option for students transitioning out of treatment. “We're not on a traditional schedule because we're flexible, because we're open year-round, because we have rolling admissions,” Buckner said. “The kids can start at any time. We are a wonderful place to come and look at. If you need to take 30 days, 60 days, six months out of your year to take care of yourself, Brightmont will be there when you are ready—and we can help.” Brightmont Academy is located in eight 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 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, 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

Beyond the Label: Understanding Neurodivergence

By Tony Beals • July 23, 2025
Understanding Neurodivergence in a New Light

Brightmont Academy Expands Deer Valley Campus Amid Surging Enrollment

July 21, 2025
Private School in Deer Valley Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Deer Valley, AZ — In response to growing enrollment and increased interest in its one-to-one education model, Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, has officially expanded its Deer Valley campus, for a second time in a year and a half by adding additional classroom space and a new high school suite to better serve its student population. The campus has experienced remarkable growth in just the past two years, prompting the need for more room to accommodate students and staff. “In the last two years, our campus has exploded with new students!” said Janie Rosenthal, Campus Director of the Deer Valley location. “With a very small main campus that has only ten classrooms, we recognized the need for more space in our office building. Thus, we embarked on a quest to find available suites. We became friendly with our neighbors across the hall and inquired if they would be willing to move so that we could take over their suite.” What began as a creative space-saving solution has now become a full expansion that is already making a difference for students and staff alike. “Our increasing enrollments quickly made it clear that we needed more space to accommodate all our students and teachers,” Rosenthal said. “By expanding our campus, we can hire more teachers and increase the number of available classrooms. This will enhance our scheduling options. Additionally, with the extra space, we can provide larger break areas for students to interact and socialize between classes.” The latest addition includes a newly opened suite dedicated solely to high school students. According to Rosenthal, students are already using the new space, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. As more families seek personalized education options, Brightmont Academy’s unique one-to-one instructional model is becoming increasingly popular nationwide. “Our one-on-one model is gaining traction through social media and word of mouth, leading more families to recognize how our unique learning plan can benefit their children,” Rosenthal explained. “Public schools often lack the resources to accommodate students with unique needs. In a one-on-one setting, students can focus better.” Brightmont Academy is located at 2222 W Pinnacle Peak Road, Suite 110, in Deer Valley 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 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, 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

Brightmont Academy Broomfield Builds Community Through Creative Socialization

July 14, 2025
Private School in Broomfield Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Broomfield, CO — Socialization plays a vital role in a child’s growth, building communication skills, emotional awareness, and the ability to collaborate with others. When students feel connected and supported, it enhances not only their social development but also their academic success and overall well-being. At Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, social growth is nurtured in creative, low-pressure ways that meet students where they are. Brightmont’s model is unique in that students have opportunities to connect with others throughout the day, in both structured and casual ways. With one teacher dedicated to each student, children are constantly engaged in meaningful conversation, unlike in traditional classrooms where it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. But it’s not just one-to-one instruction that supports social development. At the Broomfield campus, students also enjoy peer interactions during supervised lunch breaks, passing periods, and creative group activities. From painting mushrooms and knitting to crafting paper moths and cacti, these lunchtime projects provide a relaxed, low-pressure environment for students of all ages to connect. “Students are presented with opportunities to participate in social activities, but they aren't obligated,” said Cale Dunlap, Campus Director of the Broomfield campus. “This allows students to feel comfortable in a low-pressure social environment, even if they don't enjoy social situations.” One of the most unique aspects of Brightmont is how students from 1st grade through high school often spend time together. “It’s great to see older kids mentoring younger kids and learning how to be leaders,” Dunlap added. The mixed-age setting allows students to build empathy, practice leadership, and form supportive relationships across grade levels. Brightmont Academy’s one-to-one instructional model makes space for personalized academic support and thoughtful, flexible social opportunities like these. At the Broomfield campus, that means giving students a chance to express themselves, connect meaningfully, and grow into confident, compassionate individuals. Brightmont Academy is located at 549 Flatiron Blvd, Suite C in Broomfield and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, July 17th, 2025, between 9:00 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 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, 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
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