Navigating the Future: New Trends in Education from 1st to 12th Grade

November 14, 2023

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of education, the 21st century brings forth transformative trends that challenge traditional classroom norms. From the earliest years of elementary school to the culmination of high school, innovative approaches are reshaping the educational journey. One notable player in this paradigm shift is Brightmont Academy, a private, flexible, one-to-one school that embodies the changing face of education.

A woman and a boy are sitting in chairs in front of a computer.

Personalized Learning for All Grades: Across the spectrum of grades, from 1st to 12th, the trend of personalized learning is gaining momentum. Brightmont Academy, as a one-to-one school, exemplifies this trend by crafting individualized learning plans for each student. This tailored approach recognizes the unique strengths, challenges, and learning styles of every learner, fostering an environment where education is personalized from the very beginning.

Flexibility in Scheduling: In the traditional education model, rigid schedules often dictated the pace of learning. However, the trend toward flexibility in scheduling is changing this paradigm. Brightmont Academy, with its commitment to adaptability, offers flexible scheduling options for students from 1st to 12th grade. This ensures that education aligns seamlessly with the diverse needs and lifestyles of students and their families.

Small Class Sizes for Enhanced Learning: The benefits of smaller class sizes are increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of effective education. Brightmont Academy maintains small class sizes, promoting an intimate and engaging learning experience for students across all grade levels. This creates an environment where one-to-one interaction with educators is not just a luxury but a fundamental aspect of the learning process.

Technological Integration in Every Grade: Technology is no longer a novelty but an integral part of education. From interactive learning platforms to digital resources, technological integration is a trend that spans from early grades to high school. Brightmont Academy embraces this trend, incorporating technology to enhance the learning experience and provide students with the skills they need to thrive in a tech-driven world.

Customized Curriculum for Diverse Learners: Diverse learning needs call for a curriculum that can be tailored to accommodate various styles of learning. Brightmont Academy's commitment to a customized curriculum extends from the foundational years to high school. This adaptability allows students to progress at their own pace, delve deeper into areas of interest, and receive additional support in challenging subjects.

Emphasis on Holistic Student Well-being: Education is not just about academic achievement but also about the overall well-being of students. Brightmont Academy places a strong emphasis on holistic student development, ensuring that from the early years to high school, students are in an environment that nurtures not only their intellectual growth but also their emotional and social well-being.

Conclusion:

The educational trends from 1st to 12th grade reflect a shift towards personalized, flexible, and technology-driven learning environments. Brightmont Academy stands as a beacon in this educational evolution, embodying the principles of a private, flexible, one-to-one school that adapts to the changing needs of students in every phase of their academic journey. As we look to the future, these trends will continue to shape education, creating an environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential.

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June 23, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, has officially launched a compelling new podcast series that’s now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Released monthly, the podcast serves as both an educational resource and a platform to highlight the transformative impact of individualized instruction, particularly for students navigating ADHD, anxiety, or other learning differences. Each episode explores what makes Brightmont Academy’s approach so distinctive, through personal stories and conversations with campus directors and educational leaders. The podcast is hosted by Griffin Rouse, an ADHD specialist and engaging presenter known for his ability to connect with audiences and break down complex topics into practical strategies for parents and educators. “It’s really rewarding to have the opportunity to talk with Brightmont’s educators about their unique approach to supporting students with ADHD,” said Rouse. “In my work with kids and families, my goal is always to make sure the child feels heard and the parents feel supported and equipped with tools to succeed. This podcast is giving me—and Brightmont—the chance to help a lot of families.” Keith Jackson, Marketing Director at Brightmont Academy, emphasized the mission behind the project. “At Brightmont Academy, we believe every student has a story — and this podcast is our way of amplifying those voices,” Jackson said. “We’ve partnered with Griffin Rouse, who is a dynamic presenter as well as an amazing ADHD expert. He is doing great at shining the light on Brightmont and how different our education is.” Recent guests have included Michelle Platt, Campus Director in Minnesota; Monica Torres, Campus Director in Miami; and Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont Academy, each offering a unique perspective on the power of one-to-one instruction. “This podcast is more than a conversation—it’s a look inside how personalized education changes lives,” Jackson added. “Griffin is kind of pulling back the curtain on ADHD and giving people tips and tricks to help their child navigate life and their schooling. It’s important for us to show as many people as possible what one-to-one instruction really means for students, families, and the future of learning.” With each episode, Brightmont Academy continues its mission to serve students through personalized education and build meaningful connections with families across the country. 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 RSVP to our next podcast.
June 16, 2025
Private School in Plymouth Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Plymouth, MN — Approximately 1 in 5 school-aged children in the U.S. lives with a chronic medical condition. For many of these students, the effects are more than physical—about one-third experience symptoms serious enough to interrupt their ability to attend or fully participate in school. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, is uniquely positioned to meet these students where they are. With its one-to-one instruction model and year-round scheduling, Brightmont can tailor academic plans to each student’s individual needs, offering consistency and compassion when traditional schools fall short. “Childhood medical issues are a big deal,” said Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont. “Families often want to keep medical concerns private, but these students are fatigued. Staying through an eight-hour school day is incredibly taxing. Brightmont is a great reprieve from a traditional schedule. We’re a place families can turn to when a long day in a crowded school just isn’t manageable, and we’ve been able to help.” This flexible and individualized approach has made a life-changing difference for many students. Jenny Sorenson, Campus Director at Brightmont’s Plymouth location, shared the story of a student who arrived after months of school avoidance. “The one-on-one model made an immediate difference. She started attending regularly and making steady academic progress,” Sorenson recalled. “Later, she faced personal difficulties that required treatment. We put her classes on hold, and when she returned, she picked up right where she left off. With the ability to school year-round, we had solutions when she needed them.” For one Brightmont parent, this personalized structure brought hope in an overwhelming situation. “We chose Brightmont for our daughter because she was struggling in public school,” the parent shared. “She has social anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and OCD. She was missing a lot of school and failing her classes. The one-to-one teaching meant she could go at her own pace and didn’t have to face the anxiety of entering a building with 2,000 peers every day.” Brightmont Academy is located at 2855 Glacier Lane N., Suite 200 in Plymouth and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, July 17th, 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 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
By Barb Farland June 11, 2025
Mention artificial intelligence (AI) to today’s teachers, and many respond with grimaces and groans. It leads to cheating, they say. Students don’t really think when they use AI, others add. A recent Pew Research Center survey revealed that 25 percent of teachers believe AI “does more harm than good.” According to the same survey, nearly half (47 percent) of all teachers are in a quandary: they don’t know if AI is good for education or not.
June 9, 2025
Private School in Seattle Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Seattle, WA — Brightmont Academy’s Seattle campus is expanding its grade school program, with plans to open new classrooms in September 2025. Known for its one-to-one instructional model, Brightmont is extending its support to even more elementary-aged students, offering a personalized, nurturing environment that helps young learners thrive both academically and socially. “Expanding our grade school program gives us the opportunity to support students right from the start with strong academic instruction that builds a solid foundation,” said Tony Beals, Campus Director of Brightmont Seattle. “Just as importantly, it allows children to grow socially and emotionally in a smaller, more supportive setting where they can build confidence, friendships, and essential life skills.” Brightmont is uniquely positioned to serve younger students thanks to its individualized approach. “Brightmont serves grade school students exceptionally well because of our one-to-one instruction, which allows us to build each child’s academic foundation with care and without gaps,” Beals added. “At the same time, our small group activities like art and PE offer a safe and supportive space for students to develop social skills and build positive peer connections.” This expansion responds to growing demand from families seeking alternatives to larger classroom environments. Brightmont’s tailored approach is especially beneficial for students with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or anxiety. “Our program is a great fit for parents of elementary-age students who may be navigating ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or anxiety,” Beals explained. “Brightmont provides a nurturing environment where students can develop confidence, self-awareness, and the skills they need to succeed—both academically and socially—before they risk feeling misunderstood or overwhelmed in a larger school setting.” Parents interested in learning more about the expanded grade school program are encouraged to contact the Seattle campus directly. Brightmont Academy is located at 115 NE 100th St, Ste 200 in Seattle and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, June 12th, 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 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
student wearing headphones working at a computer
June 2, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — While many students find the classroom to be a place of connection and learning, students with misophonia may experience it as a source of daily distress. Misophonia is a condition that causes strong emotional reactions to everyday sounds that most people overlook, such as chewing, breathing, or typing. These trigger sounds can provoke intense discomfort, anger, or panic, leading students to avoid social and academic settings altogether. Often undiagnosed and misunderstood, misophonia tends to emerge around age 12 and can severely impact mental health and academic progress. At Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, students with misophonia are finally finding the understanding and support they need. One such student had a life-changing experience after enrolling at Brightmont, as Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont, recalls: “I had an opportunity to meet a family and a student who was just about to start high school in a larger school environment. Misophonia is a disorder in which not only classroom noise but even everyday sounds, like typing on a keyboard or repetitive movements, can cause huge anxiety.” Recognizing how triggering a traditional school setting can be, Brightmont took deliberate steps to create a customized, quiet learning environment. The student was encouraged to wear noise-canceling headphones throughout the day without fear of judgment or misunderstanding. Brightmont provided a special mouse and keyboard designed to be nearly silent. “The student grabs both of those from the desk as soon as she walks in and knows how to plug them into our computer,” Buckner explained. “We’ve worked with teachers to make sure no one is typing in her presence. Either she’ll step out, or the teacher will leave the room while she sets up her keyboard. It’s teamwork, and it’s really about putting the student first.” At Brightmont, accommodations like these aren’t exceptions; they’re part of the school’s commitment to meeting every student where they are. For those suffering in silence due to conditions like misophonia, this support can be life-changing. “Sound can make school difficult for the student. We want to provide an environment where these students can be successful,” said Buckner. 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
Superhero standing alone on a mountaintop
By Barbara Farland May 28, 2025
In an August 2024 interview with People magazine , Minnesota governor and vice presidential candidate Tim Walz shared how his son, Gus, has a “secret power.” That is how the Walz family has come to describe Gus’s diagnosis with multiple learning challenges, including ADHD. The Walzes are not alone in seeing neurodiversity’s benefits. Many families, along with teaching and mental health professionals, are now commonly referring to these benefits as “superpowers.” In fact, neurodiversity often proves itself not only advantageous to those directly affected but also necessary to the workings of the world.
May 27, 2025
Private School in Scottsdale Providing One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Scottsdale, AZ — One study found that 74% of students identify homework as a source of stress. At Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, the Homework Studio (HWS) is turning that stress into success by offering a uniquely supportive and collaborative environment where students thrive, not just academically, but emotionally and socially. Unlike traditional study halls, the HWS at Brightmont functions as a dynamic space for academic and personal growth. Staffed by a team of four dedicated educators, the studio is active throughout the day, helping students manage assignments and much more. “They work as a team to run our campus HWS, which is a pretty busy place throughout the day,” said Sarah Horton, Campus Director of Scottsdale. “In addition to supporting our students with managing and completing their homework assignments, they help our students in a number of other ways. They provide executive functioning skills guidance, show students how to communicate effectively with their instructors, and lead social emotional learning activities.” Each teacher brings a unique perspective, but all are united by a shared passion for student success. “I have been working at Brightmont as a HWS teacher for a little over two years. The dynamics are always changing, and our team is quick to adapt to the changes,” said Madison Overholt, one of the studio’s educators. “We work well together because we come from different backgrounds, but we all have the same heart and intentions. Our students face so many challenges and barriers in education, so it is incredible to see their resilience at work in our environment.” For Jessica Kalicki, another member of the HWS team, working one-on-one with students has renewed her love for teaching. “The HWS is an amazing place to work, and I am excited to be at work every day,” Kalicki said. “Working one-on-one with the students as they need has reignited my passion for teaching. Every hour is different, with a different group and a different dynamic, but the structure, community, and positivity stay the same, and I have to say that it is thanks to the 3 other amazing HWS teachers I work with. 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, July 17th, 2025, 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 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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By Tony Beals May 21, 2025
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student working at a desk with a teacher
May 19, 2025
Private School in Boca Raton Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Boca Raton, FL — As families seek more personalized alternatives to traditional classrooms, individualized instruction is proving to be one of the most effective ways to help students succeed. Research shows it can boost academic performance, motivation, and confidence, especially when tailored to each student’s needs. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, has seen that success firsthand, so much so that its Boca Raton campus is already expanding to meet demand. The response from families has been extraordinarily positive. “I am thrilled to share that Brightmont Academy has exceeded our initial enrollment expectations in just our first year!” said Debbie Bookstein, Campus Director of Brightmont’s Boca Raton campus. “As a result, we are expanding our physical space so that we will be able to meet the needs of even more students. Our new, larger building is adjacent to our current space, so this will allow students and teachers to easily go back and forth between the buildings if necessary.” Brightmont’s one-to-one model pairs each student with a dedicated teacher in every class, allowing instruction to move at the student’s pace and focus on their goals. “The overwhelming support from the community indicates that there is a strong demand for the unique educational experience we offer,” Bookstein added. “Our current space has already reached near capacity, and our expansion will allow us to continue to deliver the high-quality education and nurturing environment that our community has come to expect.” The new space will help accommodate students’ academic and social engagement. “The new building will be more than just additional classrooms,” Bookstein explained. “It will be a place where we can enhance our commitment to personalized learning and provide further opportunities for our students to thrive. Our campus is unique in that we serve a large number of elementary students, as well as those in middle and high school. The secondary building will allow us to have the flexibility of housing our younger students in a space conducive to their learning needs, while creating a separate environment for our older students.” Brightmont Academy is located at 19102 S State Road 7 in Boca Raton and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, June 18th, 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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