What One-to-One Schooling Looks Like: A Day at Brightmont Academy

Barbara Farland • September 3, 2025

It’s 8:15 a.m. on a Monday morning, and Teresa makes her way into her classroom at Brightmont Academy in Phoenix. The school is one of 20 campuses located throughout the country.

 

Unlike teachers in other school systems, Teresa will only have to manage one student during each hour of her day. Boring? Repetitive? Hardly! A day in the life of Teresa proves her time at Brightmont is just as dynamic and interesting—if not more so—for teachers and students alike…


8:30 a.m. - English 12 with Natalie

Teresa’s first class of the morning is English 12 with a high schooler named Natalie. Natalie is a full-time student at Brightmont who has been attending since seventh grade. Large groups and noise trigger Natalie’s anxiety, so Brightmont is the perfect solution to help her demonstrate her full potential. A straight-A student, Natalie is enjoying her current English unit on Frankenstein through which she and Teresa are discussing the characteristics of sympathetic characters and the nuances of what makes a monster. Natalie is so engaged in the curriculum that she is using Frankenstein as inspiration for penning some poetry outside of class. 

9:30 a.m. - Social Studies 7 with Noah

Noah is Teresa’s next student. Noah attends Brightmont just a couple of hours a week for seventh-grade Social Studies. He is a full-time student at a local public middle school, but it was determined that Noah needs some extra one-to-one support to cover the complicated mechanics of the U.S. government. Even though Noah is taking Social Studies at Brightmont, he will receive the same credit for the course as he would at his usual school. Today, Noah is working on a writing assignment about gerrymandering, a topic that has piqued his interest in recent days. In the process, Teresa is coaching Noah through the best practices of essay writing.


10:30 a.m. - Entrepreneurship with Kevin

In her third hour, Teresa meets with Kevin, who, like Natalie, is a full-time student at Brightmont. Kevin is an 11th grader; thus, he has visited the school’s long list of elective courses to enhance his core studies. With the approval of his parents and under the guidance of the school’s director, Kevin chose to take a couple semesters of Entrepreneurship, given his inventive spirit. Both Teresa and Kevin enjoy conversations that not only address the many challenges of starting a business but also tap into creative strategies for success.


11:30 a.m. - Homework Studio 

Teresa’s morning schedule ends with Homework Studio, where up to four Brightmont students have an hour to work on their assignments. Though Teresa is primarily an English and Social Studies instructor, she enjoys getting a glimpse of what’s happening all around Brightmont and supporting students in all of their studies. Today, she is overseeing three students in Homework Studio and referring to a campuswide “Assignment Tracker” to help them make progress on their most pressing tasks. 

1 p.m. - Test Prep Part 1 with Saanvi (Homework Studio)

After lunch, Teresa returns to the Homework Studio after lunch, but this time it’s a bit different. Saanvi is working through several ACT test questions while Teresa grades other students’ homework and prepares for upcoming class sessions. With aspirations to go to a very competitive private college, Saanvi is enrolled in Brightmont’s ACT Test Prep program to help bolster her ACT score. Right after Homework Studio, Saanvi will visit another teacher’s classroom to explore what she got right, what she got wrong, and how to apply various study skills and memorization techniques in further test prep. 



2 p.m. - AP English Literature and Composition with Henry

At the end of 10th grade, Henry took an AP (advanced placement) exam through his school; the test confirmed that he could benefit from an accelerated academic plan. That’s when Brightmont came into the picture, and today, Teresa and Henry are dissecting Act 4 of Twelfth Night as part of a Shakespearean Comedy unit. In addition to reading and discussing the play with Teresa, Henry will be graded on various interpretive essays. In its entirety, this AP English Literature and Composition course will count toward Henry’s college credits.

3 p.m. - Skill-building with Aria

Aria, a third grader, attends a local public elementary school. When Aria’s self-confidence started to plummet in reading, her parents looked to Brightmont to administer an assessment to gauge her reading level. The results showed that Aria was reading about a year behind her peers. In response, Aria’s parents signed her up for two hours a week of Reading Skill-building at Brightmont. Aria and Teresa have a set routine each time they meet: 25 minutes of phonics, five minutes of drills or word games, and 25 minutes of reading comprehension. Teresa also assigns activities to practice at home to ensure Aria’s reading skills gain momentum. 



4 p.m. - Tutoring with Connor

Connor, a sixth grader, was diagnosed with ADHD when he was eight years old. Not surprisingly, as a new middle schooler, he is struggling with the greater independence that middle school requires. Teresa, however, meets with Connor three times a week not only to help him devise a system for keeping track of and prioritizing his assignments, but also to tutor him in essay writing, which really challenges his ability to focus. Connor has already experienced an uptick in his grades due in large part to his tutoring sessions with Teresa.

And, just like that, Teresa’s day is done. As demonstrated in Teresa’s Brightmont experience, one-to-one schooling is rich with engaging teacher/student interactions, challenging coursework, and diversity. Needless to say, time and time again, it has proven to be the best solution for students of all ages and with all kinds of academic needs. As Teresa waves goodbye to her co-workers—some of whom are just settling in for their evening teaching and tutoring sessions—she looks forward to the rest of the week when she will continue to make an important difference in the lives of so many young people.

Barbara Farland is an English & Social Studies instructor at Brightmont Academy in Plymouth, Minn. She holds a master’s degree in Business Communication from the University of St. Thomas and, prior to pursuing a second career in education, worked as an award-winning public relations and communications professional in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors. As a “storyteller by nature and teacher at heart,” Barbara continues to contribute to various anthologies, among other writing projects. 

More Blog Posts + News

Perfectly Imperfect

By Tony Beals • December 3, 2025
Perfectly Imperfect
Lady refusing to get out of bed

School Refusal: What It Is and How Personalized Education Can Help

By Barb Farland • November 26, 2025
It’s a Monday morning and, as usual, Nora awakens to the chime of her phone alarm. It’s time to get ready for school, but Nora’s parents have a hard time remembering a drama-free morning when she didn’t dawdle, complain of a stomach ache, become really emotional, etc. In fact, Nora hasn’t ridden the bus in two months and has been marked tardy a whopping 21 times. Pair these incidents with six full-day absences this semester, and Nora’s parents feel more than frustrated. They’re legitimately concerned about Nora’s mental health and overall well-being. And they should be. Nora is among the 2-5 percent of students nationwide who struggle with school refusal—and it’s not to be taken lightly.  What is school refusal? What does it look like? And how can families address the issue of school refusal and overcome its characteristic behaviors and consequences? This is what we know…

Flexible Schooling Options for Competitive Athletes and Performers

By Barb Farland • November 19, 2025
Flexible Schooling Options for Competitive Athletes and Performers
teacher and student smiling

Brightmont Academy Gives Thanks for a Year of Growth and Student Success

November 17, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — As Thanksgiving approaches, Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is taking a moment to reflect on a year filled with growth, gratitude, and student success. With multiple new campus openings in 2025 and plans to open several more soon, Brightmont continues to expand its mission of transforming education through individualized instruction that empowers each student to reach their full potential. Keith Jackson, Marketing Director at Brightmont Academy, shared his appreciation for the families who have made this mission possible. “This Thanksgiving, we’re especially grateful for the families who trust Brightmont Academy to provide a one-to-one education that helps their children thrive,” Jackson said. “Every student’s success story is a reminder of why we do what we do.” Brightmont’s unique model of personalized learning has helped countless students rediscover confidence and joy in the classroom. This season of gratitude serves as a reminder of the small victories that make a big difference in each student’s educational journey. “At Brightmont Academy, gratitude comes from seeing students who once struggled now finding confidence and joy in learning,” Jackson explained. “Thanksgiving reminds us how important it is to celebrate progress, big and small.” The spirit of Thanksgiving also reflects Brightmont’s core values of connection and collaboration. Just as families gather around the table to share gratitude, Brightmont brings together teachers, students, and parents as partners in each child’s education. “Just as Thanksgiving brings families together, Brightmont Academy brings teachers, students, and parents together as a team to create an individualized education plan that truly fits each child,” Jackson said. As families give thanks and look ahead to the new year, Brightmont Academy invites prospective parents to visit a campus and experience firsthand how personalized education can transform a child’s life. With four new locations opening this year, Brightmont continues to offer more families the opportunity to discover a learning environment where students flourish both academically and emotionally. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to schedule a campus tour and see how Brightmont’s one-to-one instruction is changing lives across the country. Brightmont Academy is located in nine 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 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th

What Makes a Good Fit School? A Checklist for Parents

By Rachel Pollock • November 12, 2025
Is there support for your student if they are struggling? What are the class sizes? Do the teachers personalize learning and know their students? Does the school schedule work for your family? Is the school accredited? Does the school offer academic rigor for your child? Does the school have a good reputation and location? Are students college and career ready after graduation? 
Reluctant Teen

Brightmont Academy Builds Community Through Monthly Speaker Series

November 10, 2025
Private School in Mendota Heights Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Mendota Heights, MN — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is helping families stay informed and connected through its Speaker Series, a free monthly webinar designed to support parents and students. Hosted by Minnesota Campus Directors Michelle Platt of Mendota Heights and Jenny Sorenson of Plymouth, the virtual sessions feature expert speakers discussing topics that matter most to families—ranging from ADHD and adolescent anxiety to sleep issues and school transitions. The Speaker Series began as a way to make professional insight more accessible to Brightmont families. “A big part of my job is networking, and I’m constantly meeting trusted professionals through events, referrals, and outreach,” explained Platt. “The Speaker Series gives families direct access to these experts and helps parents feel connected while learning more about Brightmont Academy and the many resources available to them.” Each hour-long session allows parents to engage in real time with speakers and ask questions through a live chat. Topics have included ADHD, adolescent anxiety, evaluations, sleep, and school avoidance—issues that often impact students’ academic and emotional well-being. “Each speaker shares actionable tips for parents while also giving families a chance to learn more about Brightmont’s unique strengths, such as open enrollment, flexible scheduling, part-time and full-time options, skill building, and executive function programs,” said Platt. The response to the Speaker Series has been overwhelmingly positive. Families can RSVP for upcoming sessions on Brightmont’s website, and recordings are available afterward on Brightmont’s YouTube channel and social media platforms. “For me, the series has strengthened relationships with families and professionals, given me new insights as a director and parent, and expanded the network of resources I can confidently recommend,” Platt said. “Most importantly, it ensures Brightmont families feel supported not just by our school, but by a wider community of experts.” See our webinar recordings and RSVP to upcoming webinars. Brightmont Academy is located at 720 Main Street, Suite 101, in Mendota Heights and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, November 20th, 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 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th

The Boy, The Horse, and The Lesson We Forget in Teaching

By Tony Beals • November 5, 2025
The Boy, The Horse, and The Lesson We Forget in Teaching
Alesia Stevenson

Brightmont Academy Raleigh Welcomes New Campus Director Alesia Stevenson

November 3, 2025
Private School in Raleigh Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Raleigh, NC — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alesia Stevenson as the new Campus Director of its Raleigh campus. Stevenson brings a rich background in education, business, leadership, and community engagement, along with a passion for helping students discover their strengths and succeed through personalized learning. Stevenson has spent her career fostering environments where both students and teams can thrive. She has worked extensively in education and organizational leadership, focusing on expanding access to resources and tailoring support to meet individual needs. As both an educator and a parent, Stevenson has experienced first-hand the life-changing impact of individualized instruction. “My background spans education and program development, often in environments where meeting students and families ‘where they are’ is essential,” said Stevenson. “That experience translates directly into Brightmont’s model, which focuses on tailoring instruction to each student’s unique strengths, challenges, and goals.” Stevenson first learned about Brightmont while researching alternative education models centered on the student learning experience. Brightmont’s one-to-one instruction stood out as both innovative and aligned with her vision of student success. “I was drawn to Brightmont because the role allows me to bring together my experience in education, leadership, and community engagement to create meaningful impact,” Stevenson said. “The opportunity to lead a campus where every student receives personalized support felt like a natural extension of my passion for helping young people succeed.” At Brightmont, Stevenson is eager to establish the Raleigh campus as a trusted resource for families seeking alternatives to the traditional classroom. She envisions a school community where students build confidence and resilience alongside academic progress. “My vision is to see our Raleigh campus grow into a trusted educational home for students and families seeking a more personalized path,” Stevenson said. “I believe Brightmont’s individualized approach will resonate in Raleigh, a dynamic city where families value strong, innovative educational options.” Brightmont Academy is located at 6070 Six Forks Rd in Raleigh and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Executive functioning student sitting at a desk

How Brightmont Supports Students with Executive Function Challenges

By Barb Farland • October 29, 2025
Vanessa seems to dawdle when her teacher asks her to begin her math assignment. Marcus has read the directions four times and still has no idea what to do. Shamanth opens his desk to try to find a pencil, which is buried under mounds of crumpled papers. Belinda raises her hand and, in sobs and tears, demands to go to the school counselor’s office. What’s up with these students? Are they being lazy, giving their teacher a hard time, and/or just having a bad day? Perhaps, but there’s also another strong possibility. All of these behaviors may indicate challenges in executive functioning. About Executive Function Executive functioning has very little to do with academic prowess and much more to do with the general operation of the brain. Healthcare and child development professionals typically identify eight important skills related to executive functioning: Initiation - The ability to begin a task Impulse control - The ability not to give in to temptation and behave accordingly Flexibility - The ability to shift from one task to the next Emotional control - The ability to behave appropriately despite contrary emotions Working memory - The ability to remember and apply instructions and other concepts Organization - The ability to create and abide by a system of tidiness Planning - The ability to understand the sequence of necessary steps to accomplish goals and tasks Self-monitoring - The ability to assess one’s own emotions, thoughts, physical condition, etc. Why are these specific capabilities so important? It’s all about what happens as a result. Executive functioning skills lead to effective decision-making, for example, thus poor executive functions could lead to choices that are unwise, emotionally driven, rash, etc., in relationships, physical health, and other areas of life.
More Posts