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.

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."

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

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.

Brightmont Academy Honors Excellent Educators During Teacher Appreciation Week

06 May, 2024
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National – Brightmont Academy is proud to announce its celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, taking place from May 6th to May 10th. This annual event recognizes the invaluable contributions of educators across the nation and honors their dedication to shaping the future. Brightmont Academy is a nationally accredited private school that offers a flexible, customized learning alternative to traditional schools. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. At Brightmont Academy, Teacher Appreciation Week holds special significance as the institution pays tribute to its exceptional teachers who are committed to the mission of providing personalized education in a one-on-one environment. With a focus on individualized learning, Brightmont Academy fosters a unique connection between teachers and students, empowering educators to tailor instruction to meet each student's specific needs and interests. Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont Academy, explains, “The experience has been just outstanding with our teachers here. It’s great to be able to have a variety of experience. Someone who has a Ph.D. in physics teaches physics or to be able to have someone who has spent time writing books to teach creative writing, and what better connection can you have than someone who has done college essays on the side to help kids write college essays. We are so fortunate to have these teachers in our organization, committed to the Brightmont mission in a one-on-one environment." One of the hallmarks of Brightmont Academy's approach to education is the ability for teachers to forge meaningful connections with their students. Unlike traditional classroom settings where educators must manage large groups, Brightmont Academy's one-to-one model allows teachers to engage deeply with each student, understanding their unique learning styles, interests, and goals. As a result, teachers can provide personalized support and guidance, fostering a nurturing and enriching learning environment. Buckner adds, “For many teachers, what they love the most about teaching is that connection with kids. In a traditional classroom, a lot of their time is spent on classroom management. You don’t get to connect as much with each child. Here at Brightmont, we recognize that we can meet the child where they are and weave in some of their interests and connect one-on-one with the student.” 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 18 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th

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23 Apr, 2024
Private School in Broomfield Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Broomfield, CO – Approximately 20% of children and teenagers encounter mental health issues throughout their schooling phase. Brightmont Academy recognizes the significant challenges that students face in managing mental health issues. By acknowledging the importance of mental well-being, Brightmont Academy remains dedicated to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for its student body. Incorporating weekly yoga classes into its regimen, Brightmont Academy provides students with a holistic approach to mental wellness, offering tools to manage stress, anxiety, and promote overall well-being. Brightmont Academy is a nationally accredited private school that offers a flexible, customized learning alternative to traditional schools. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Brightmont Academy's 1-to-1 instructional model has been hailed as transformative by both students and educators alike. Cale Dunlap, Campus Director of the Broomfield location, explains, “Our 1-to-1 model is absolutely transformative for many students. There is simply no better way to educate students. Many students don't even know how smart and capable they are until they experience our 1-to-1 model. It's amazing to see a student realize for the first time that they are actually good at academics. Many of them don't know it until they receive proper individualized instruction.” Brightmont Academy is redefining the educational experience by prioritizing student well-being. This comprehensive approach to mental health provides students with essential tools for managing stress and anxiety. Additionally, the school's supportive environment has proven invaluable for students struggling with overwhelming anxiety. Dunlap adds, “We have weekly yoga classes for everyone, and students have access to lots of free healthy snacks and drinks. Apart from that, we have cultivated a ‘culture of chill’ in our school that is intended to make students feel comfortable and relaxed while learning. We have had students with such overwhelming anxiety that they have refused to step foot in another school. Many of those students can't wait to come to Brightmont Academy each day.” New students can enroll at any time with open enrollment all throughout the school year. Brightmont Academy is open year-round and offers customized scheduling, allowing students the flexibility to balance priorities. 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 18 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th

Brightmont Academy Redefines Education with Hybrid Scheduling Option

16 Apr, 2024
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Redmond, WA – In an era where flexibility and personalized learning are increasingly valued, hybrid scheduling emerges as a beacon of innovation in the educational landscape. According to recent studies, over 70% of high school students express interest in participating in extracurricular activities while maintaining their academic pursuits. Brightmont Academy pioneers a transformative approach with its hybrid scheduling model, catering to the diverse needs of modern learners. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school, offers a flexible and customized learning alternative to traditional schools. In today's educational landscape, students seek personalized solutions to meet their diverse needs. Brightmont Academy recognizes this and is proud to offer a range of enrollment options tailored to each student's goals and requirements. Kerri Resing, Campus Director of the Redmond location, explains, “Students have a variety of reasons for taking courses with us: grade replacement, credit recovery, to get extra help with a class that they struggle with, or to dive deeper into a subject that they enjoy. Some students attend full-time and graduate from Brightmont while other students take individual courses with us. If full-time enrollment or individual courses are not the best fit, we do offer a hybrid solution where students take some of their courses at Brightmont Academy while still attending their home high school or middle school for some courses for part of the school day.” Hybrid scheduling at Brightmont Academy empowers students to enjoy the best of both worlds. They can participate in electives and activities at their home schools, such as drama, orchestra, band, etc., while benefiting from personalized one-on-one instruction for some or all of their academic courses. This innovative approach ensures that students receive the individualized support they need to excel academically, without sacrificing their interests and involvement in extracurricular pursuits. Resing adds, “Hybrid enrollment is a great way for students to get the best of both worlds. They are able to participate in electives or activities that they are interested in that don’t translate well to a one-to-one setting like drama, orchestra, band, etc. At the same time, they are able to get the additional support that they need in some or all of their academic courses through our customized one-on-one instruction.” 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 18 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th

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08 Apr, 2024
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students According to researchers' estimations, approximately 20% to 40% of students excel in reading above their grade level, while approximately 11% to 30% perform similarly in math. Gifted and twice-exceptional (2E) students face unique challenges in traditional educational settings, often struggling to find a balance between their above-average intelligence and learning differences. Brightmont Academy is committed to empowering these students through a tailored learning environment that maximizes their potential. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school, offers a flexible and customized learning alternative to traditional schools. In many classrooms, 2E students feel trapped between two worlds, where their exceptional abilities are overshadowed by their learning differences, leading to frustration and a sense of being underserved. Recognizing the need for a solution, Brightmont Academy offers a revolutionary approach: a one student to one teacher classroom. Karen Buckner, Campus Director of the Northfield location, explains, “Brightmont Academy is a great opportunity for kids who are outstanding from a grade level perspective. Sometimes, because of other challenges like staying focused, they don’t really fit into a mold. We have a student right now who is 7 years old and taking 6th-grade English, Social Studies, and Science. It’s a difficult fit in a traditional classroom where that child is going to feel good about his achievements. He walks out of here every day with a smile on his face because he is being challenged and he is successful.” This personalized setting is perfectly designed to address the needs of 2E students, providing individualized attention and support that is often lacking in traditional classrooms. By focusing on the unique strengths and challenges of each student, Brightmont Academy creates an environment where 2E students can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally. Buckner adds, “One of the first things we do is give an assessment that is used in thousands of schools around the country. We give the assessment in reading or math or both. It allows us to see the students’ strengths and weaknesses. When you have a 6-year-old that comes in that is placing in 7th grade math you know you have something special there. And we know and the parents know they have something special, but they don’t know what to do. They look for a traditional gifted school, but it doesn’t quite work for them because of the executive functioning piece.” 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 18 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th

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Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students The most recent 2023 findings from the CDC indicate that autism now affects one in 36 children. In a public-school classroom, students with autism face many challenges including sensory overload, social interaction difficulties, and maintaining focus amidst distractions. Brightmont Academy acknowledges these challenges by providing tailored education, specifically designed to address the unique needs of students with autism, fostering an environment conducive to their academic and personal growth. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school, offers a flexible and customized learning alternative to traditional schools. With a one-to-one instruction, Brightmont Academy's personalized approach is particularly beneficial for students with autism. Janie Rosenthal, Campus Director of the Deer Valley location, highlights the success of autistic students at Brightmont Academy, attributing it to the unique one-on-one instructional attention that caters to their preferred learning styles: “The autistic students at Brightmont Academy succeed so well because they receive unique one on one instructional attention that meets their preferred learning style. Teachers take the time to really understand their students and deliver content accordingly.” Open enrollment throughout the school year and customized scheduling options ensure that students can enroll at any time and balance their priorities effectively. Brightmont Academy's proven model has been especially effective for students with learning difficulties, including those with autism, who benefit from hands-on techniques and modified classes tailored to their needs. Rosenthal adds, “The Brightmont students are able to learn at their own pace-as well as use hands-on techniques that makes learning easier for them. Brightmont also offers modified classes, so the students are able to learn more efficiently.” Rosenthal encourages parents to tour the campus to witness the unique learning environment firsthand and meet with teachers to fully understand why Brightmont Academy is the best fit for their children. With its commitment to providing individualized education and support, Brightmont Academy empowers students to thrive academically and personally, regardless of their learning challenges. 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 18 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th

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