Walking on Eggshells: Parenting a Child with Anxiety Disorder

Illinois Private School Highlights One-to-One Instruction for Grades 1-12 St. Charles & Naperville, IL — Brightmont Academy, an accredited private school offering fully individualized, one-to-one instruction for students in grades 1–12, announces that Meredith Hale, Campus Director of the St. Charles campus, and Lindsay Morales, Campus Director of the Naperville campus, were recently featured guests on the #NoLimits podcast. The podcast is hosted by educator, advocate, and author Shelley Kenow and is rooted in the belief that no one can fully predict a person’s potential or future—and that opportunities should never be limited by labels or assumptions. Hale and Morales connected with Kenow at the Dynamics of Dyslexia conference in Illinois, where they discovered a shared passion for supporting neurodiverse learners and the families who advocate for them. “Meredith and I met Shelley at the conference and quickly connected around our mutual commitment to helping students access education that truly meets their needs,” said Morales. Kenow’s mission to spotlight individuals and organizations that help others reach their fullest potential closely aligns with Brightmont Academy’s educational philosophy. Brightmont partners with families to create individualized learning environments that remove barriers and empower students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. “We were honored to be guests on Shelley’s podcast,” Morales said. “Her work centers on helping students and families navigate—and ultimately break through—the limits society often places on them.” For both campus leaders, participating in the podcast reflects their shared commitment to advocacy, connection, and reimagining what education can look like for students who need a more personalized approach. “Being part of Shelley’s community allows us to share how Brightmont supports students in meaningful, individualized ways, and to contribute to a broader conversation about reimagining education for learners who need something different,” Morales added. The #NoLimits podcast is on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Facebook, and YouTube. Brightmont Academy is located at 620 E Main St. in St. Charles and at 1528 Aurora Ave. in Naperville and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, February 19, 2026, between 9:00 AM to 3:00 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 24 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

When we talk about learning differences, vision is often treated as one of the simplest variables to address. The solutions we reach for are familiar in recommending glasses, larger print, or a seat closer to the board. These supports can be helpful, but they are often built on an assumption that vision is primarily about clarity. In my work with neurodivergent and vision-challenged students at Brightmont Academy , I’ve learned that vision is rarely that simple. I’ve worked with learners who have Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), neurological vision challenges, and progressive vision loss. One student I worked with began losing her sight in 10th grade and is now legally blind. What stood out most was not only how her vision changed, but how quickly expectations around her learning shifted alongside it. The challenge was never her ability. It was her access.  For many learners, vision is not just about what the eyes detect, but how the brain processes, organizes, and sustains visual information. When that distinction is misunderstood, even well-intentioned accommodations can easily miss the mark.

Private School in Cherry Creek Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Cherry Creek, CO — Brightmont Academy has named Nadine Ritchotte as Campus Director of its Cherry Creek campus, bringing more than 30 years of experience in public education to the role. Ritchotte will lead the new campus as Brightmont continues to expand its individualized, one-to-one learning model for students in grades 1–12 across the Denver metro area. After decades in traditional public education, Ritchotte was drawn to Brightmont’s mission of meeting students where they are academically, socially, and emotionally. After 30 years in public education, I finally realized the limits on what I could change,” Ritchotte said. “Brightmont Academy represents the kind of alternative model I believe in, one that individualizes learning and helps students thrive in a supportive, safe environment.” Located in the heart of the Denver metropolitan area, Cherry Creek is uniquely positioned to serve families across multiple school districts. The area is surrounded by at least five public school systems, each with students who may struggle in traditional classroom environments for a variety of reasons — from learning differences to social challenges or the need for greater flexibility. Ritchotte sees Brightmont’s one-to-one instructional approach as an ideal solution for students who may feel overlooked or unsupported elsewhere. “Brightmont Academy can help those students find their potential and love for learning through one-to-one learning,” she said. Looking ahead, Ritchotte’s vision extends beyond academic progress to help students rebuild confidence and rediscover joy in learning. “I want the Brightmont Academy Cherry Creek Campus to help students rediscover their potential,” Ritchotte said. “Success for our campus looks like a place where students who once struggled feel capable, engaged, and proud to be who they are.” Brightmont Academy is located at 3773 E Cherry Creek North Dr., Suite 145, in Cherry Creek 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

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 

Private School in Northfield Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Northfield, IL — While 92% of Brightmont Academy graduates are accepted into their first-choice college, the school recognizes that success doesn’t look the same for every student. From students heading to prestigious universities to those entering the workforce, Brightmont’s fully individualized, one-to-one instruction for grades 1–12 ensures every student has the support they need to thrive. Each year, students enroll in colleges and universities across the country, prepared academically and emotionally for the next step — but the school also understands that the right path is different for every student. For Brightmont graduate Shayna Taplin, the traditional college route was never the goal. After struggling to feel comfortable in her previous high school environment, Shayna transferred to Brightmont and quickly discovered a community where she belonged. The school’s one-to-one learning model allowed her to learn at her own pace, while the supportive culture helped her build confidence and form meaningful friendships. “As soon as I walked in, it felt like home,” Shayna said. “I immediately wanted to go there.” Shayna’s time at Brightmont was transformative. She regained her love of learning and discovered what she wanted for her future — a path that didn’t involve college. Brightmont’s flexible scheduling allowed her to gain real-world experience while completing her high school education. “I never really considered going to college,” she shared. “I like working hands-on, and Brightmont made it possible for me to start that while I was still in school.” Today, she works as a caregiver at an assisted living facility, a role that reflects her passion for helping others and making a positive impact in her community. Shayna’s experience reflects Brightmont Academy’s commitment to meeting students where they are. Whether graduates pursue college, trade programs, or full-time careers, Brightmont equips them with the confidence, skills, and support to succeed. “It was such a good experience for me,” Shayna said. “I actually miss it, and I’ve recommended it to so many people.” 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, February 19th, 2026, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 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 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

I write this post not long after talking with a frustrated friend. Last night, she received what has become a typical phone call from her husband. Such conversations often begin with his saying: “I forgot…” “Can you please bring me…?” “Oh, I didn’t know that was happening today…” Last night, he needed a ride to a restaurant where he left his jacket and keys. My friend literally put dinner on the backburner, got in her car, and did her due diligence as a gracious spouse. My friend’s husband has never been assessed for any kind of neurodiversity, but many signs point to his having ADHD, the prominently inattentive version. Cleveland Clinic lists these symptoms for it: lack of focus, prone to distractions, difficulty with details, and difficulty with finishing projects. Check, check, check, and check! Whether her husband has ADHD or not, you can still imagine the effect his tendencies have on their day-to-day life together.

National Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction Opening 3rd Campus in Colorado Cherry Creek, CO – Brightmont Academy, a one-to-one school, will open a new campus in Cherry Creek, Colorado. Offering full-time school for grades 1-12, it is the 3rd campus in Colorado and brings the number of locations nationwide to 23. They will celebrate with a ribbon cutting and grand opening on Tuesday, February 3rd from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 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. Parents have three enrollment options. Students can attend full time and earn a diploma issued by Brightmont Academy, take courses to earn credit, or receive intensive tutoring support. 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. “We work with students who have struggled in traditional settings. Not because they can’t learn, but because they learn differently. One-to-one education changes that experience for students by removing barriers and focusing on the whole child. When students feel seen and supported, real growth happens,” said Nadine Ritchotte, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy in Cherry Creek. This proven model effectively serves students who have learning difficulties, those who want to accelerate their studies, and those whose needs aren’t met in traditional schools. Brightmont's safe learning environment and supportive teachers are integral to the emotional well-being of all students, including those with anxiety and/or depression or those who have been bullied. “Students feel safe here. Many of them haven’t felt safe in years.” said Ritchotte. “There are so many students for whom a typical school environment simply doesn’t work. One-to-one education changes the conversation from ‘Why isn’t this student succeeding?’ to ‘What does this student need to succeed?’” said Ritchotte. “By designing learning to the individual’s unique needs, we give students the structure, flexibility, and support they need to thrive.“ Brightmont Academy’s new location is at 3773 E. Cherry Creek North Drive Suite 145 Denver, CO 80209 and is currently accepting enrollments. Our grand opening event will feature personalized tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. RSVP Here. 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 Scottsdale Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Scottsdale, AZ — Students learn best when their education is tailored to their individual strengths, interests, and learning styles—yet many families find that a one-size-fits-all school model doesn’t meet their child’s needs. During National School Choice Week, Brightmont Academy is joining schools, families, and education advocates nationwide to spotlight the importance of giving students access to learning environments where they can truly thrive. Brightmont specializes in fully individualized, one-to-one instruction designed to meet students where they are academically and help them move forward with confidence. For many families, school choice opens the door to smaller learning environments, personalized pacing, and targeted support that traditional settings may struggle to provide. “Too often, the school that’s closest to home simply isn’t the right fit for a student,” said Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont. “School choice gives families the ability to find an environment that supports their child’s unique needs—whether that means smaller class sizes, a stronger focus on specific subjects like math or science, or a learning model that’s more personalized. It’s incredibly difficult for any single school to meet every student’s needs, and that’s why Brightmont is proud to support a movement that helps students get the education they truly deserve.” At Brightmont Academy’s Scottsdale campus and across its network, individualized learning empowers students to overcome challenges, build confidence, and reach their full potential—academically and personally. “Equal access to a quality public education is essential to a healthy democracy,” said Sarah Horton, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy’s Scottsdale location. “Unfortunately, what’s available in a student’s immediate community doesn’t always align with their learning needs. Many families must look beyond traditional public school options to find an environment where their child can grow, succeed, and reach their full potential.” As National School Choice Week continues, Brightmont Academy remains committed to advocating for educational options that prioritize flexibility, personalization, and student success—ensuring families have meaningful choices when it comes to their child’s education. Brightmont Academy is located at 6990 E Shea Blvd, Suite 120 in Scottsdale and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, February 19th, 2026, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 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 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