What's New At Brightmont Academy Birmingham Campus

Rachel Pollock • February 4, 2026

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Ribbon Cutting for Birmingham Campus Grand Opening

October 15, 2025 - Brightmont Academy staff were joined by CEO Karen Buckner in a small celebration with the Birmingham Chapter Chamber of Commerce. Our new and welcoming two story campus is a sign of our growth over recent years nationwide. Our culture is a big part of the success!


Future Business Leaders of America

Brightmont Academy Birmingham Students

This school year Brightmont Academy has chartered the first Birmingham chapter of Future Business Leaders of America. Over 200,000 students nationwide participate in the program to build college and career ready skills. Students meet weekly and drive service projects, build community, mentor, and gain skills with professional development activities. Be on the lookout in our newsletter for our growing membership, and ways to support student success!


Animal Shelter Service Project

Students participating at the Animal Shelter Service Project

The Royal Oak Animal Shelter donation drive is in full swing at Brightmont Academy - Birmingham. The program is being run by our Future Business Leaders of America Club.



Adoption blankets for dogs have been crafted by our students of all ages. Students have participated in community outreach and raised hundreds of dollars in supplies for the animal shelter dogs and cats. The November 15, 2025 donation dropoff will also include cash raised by the club in a bake sale and raffle ticket guided by Ms. Fisher. 


Freerice UN Food Donation Program

Birmingham  rice donations program

This is our second year participating as a group in the free rice program UN program. The idea came from one of our very own students! Our group practices Math, English, and Social Studies skills throughout the school year. For each correct answer in trivia games, grains of rice and bowls of vegetables are donated, by a corporate sponsor, to feed those in desperate need for food all over the world.

 

So far, in the 2025-2026 school year, Brightmont Birmingham Students have donated over 190 meals, 19,000 grains of rice, to people in need by playing educational trivia games and building skills. The number donated grows everyday, and we post data updates weekly on our data wall in the student center. The students are doing a great job!


Our Rewards Program and School Store

Brightmont Academy School Store Products

In our second school year with the The Brightmont Rewards Program at our Birmingham Campus we recognize positive behavior, academic effort, and community involvement.


Students earn “Brightmont Bucks” to use in the school store, to make success feel more rewarding! They also maintain their account ledgers and practice life skills in the process.


Scholastic Art and Writing Participation

The prestigious nationwide program, Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, starts at the regional level. We are proud of our Brightmont students that are preparing their submissions to receive the recognition they deserve. 


Students have the opportunity to compete at the national level, win scholarships, and creative study summer programs at College for Creative Studies. Work will be displayed at the College of Creative Studies in Detroit January through March 2026.



The Art ceremony will take place at the Detroit Institute of Art on February 10, 2026. Brightmont is proud to share that we had a talented Birmingham student honored at the 2025 ceremony which included having their work displayed.


National competitions will take place June 10, 2026 at Carnegie Hall! 


Looking ahead: Fitness Club and Future Business Leaders of America 5k Series Collaboration

5K Series Fitness Tracker

Starting soon our Fitness Club and Future Business Leaders of America are collaborating and will be participating in a 5k series throughout the spring. The 5ks can be completed all at once or broken into shorter distances while walking or running. A portion of proceeds for participation of the first three races go directly to standup2cancer. Fitness Club Leaders are here to support and encourage throughout the year.


The final race of the season is the Bob Ross Run for the Trees 5k. All proceeds benefit the Michigan DNR and include a tree being planted for each racer, on state land, to celebrate earth day April 22, 2026. Students who register receive Race Bibs, Medals, and T-Shirts for joining in on the fun! Fitness trackers and links to registration are available in the student center; friends and family are welcome to sign up and join in the fundraising activities.

Rachel Pollock is an English and Social Studies Instructor at Brightmont Academy, freelance writer, and Chapter Advisor for Future Business Leaders of America. She holds a master’s degree in Psychology from American Military University and graduated with honors for research in social-emotional learning (SEL) in K–12 schools. With over six years classroom experience working with gifted and twice-exceptional (2E) students, Rachel brings professional insight and personal insight as a parent of gifted teens. She has elevated student voice through recognition in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards reflecting her commitment to creativity, academic rigor, and authentic expression. She is dedicated to supporting learners, families, and educators in a rapidly changing world. 


Disclaimer: I am not a licensed clinical therapist and do not provide mental health counseling or therapy services. The information shared here is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as psychological diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. For personal mental health support, please consult a licensed mental health professional in your area.

More Blog Posts + News


February 2, 2026
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
By Barb Farland January 28, 2026
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.
Cherry Creek Grand Opening
January 27, 2026
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
boy working at whiteboard with teacher in the distance
January 26, 2026
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
By Tony Beals January 21, 2026
When a child is diagnosed as 𝗻𝗲𝘂𝗿𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 —autistic, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, dyslexic (or more likely a combination of those)—it doesn’t just impact that child. It 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 . In my work with families, I hear the same words repeated in different forms: 𝗘𝘅𝗵𝗮𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱. 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗺𝗲𝗱. 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱. 𝗔𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗲. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗱. 𝗙𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱. And under all of it— 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲. Fierce, protective love. But that love is also 𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻.  Neurodiversity can be 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 . It can bring out 𝗱𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗵, 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 . But for many families, it also brings 𝗱𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀, 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗼𝗽𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗼𝘂𝘁 .
high school student writing at a desk
January 19, 2026
Private School in Birmingham Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Birmingham, MI — Many high school students experience their greatest challenges during the first semester, particularly freshmen who are adjusting to higher academic expectations, new social dynamics, and the responsibility of managing their time and coursework more independently. As these struggles become more apparent by winter break, families often begin searching for alternative learning environments that better support their child’s needs—such as Brightmont Academy, a fully individualized school offering one-to-one instruction for students in grades 1–12. For many parents, the first semester represents a final attempt to make a traditional classroom setting succeed. When it doesn’t, families are frequently left reassessing their options midyear, unsure of where to turn or what type of educational model will truly help their child move forward. “At the start of the second semester, we receive so many phone calls from parents who are rethinking whether a traditional setting is right for their child’s current situation,” said Annette Looser, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy’s Birmingham campus. “A lot of parents don’t know what to do when their child isn’t thriving in their current school environment. Oftentimes, they turn to Google to look for other options without even being sure what they’re looking for—and that’s usually when they find Brightmont.” Brightmont Academy is designed to meet students where they are academically, socially, and emotionally. Through its one-to-one instruction model and flexible scheduling, students receive personalized support that allows them to progress at their own pace while addressing challenges that may have gone unmet in traditional settings. Finding Brightmont during the second semester can be a critical turning point, especially for students who may be behind or discouraged after a difficult start to the school year. “The best thing about a family finding Brightmont for the first time during their child’s second semester is that we still have time to fix the current challenges,” Looser added. “Because of our flexible scheduling and one-to-one instruction model, even students who are behind can catch up and stay on track during the current school year.” For parents interested in learning more about Brightmont Academy’s Birmingham campus, contact Annette Looser, Campus Director, at 248-430-3060. 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, 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
By Tony Beals January 14, 2026
At Brightmont Academy , I’ve worked with brilliant students who were labeled as “difficult”, “lazy” or “unsuitable” when really, they just needed different ways to engage.  Here are 4 simple ways to make any classroom more inclusive:
January 12, 2026
Private School in Alpharetta Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Alpharetta, GA — Brightmont Academy is celebrating the creativity of one of its youngest students, second grader Ryanne Das, who recently launched her own blog dedicated entirely to the world of bugs. What began as a summer curiosity has evolved into a digital project that blends science, writing, research, and technology, supported by Brightmont’s fully individualized, one-to-one instruction model. Ryanne’s fascination with insects started during a visit to her grandmother’s farm, where she spent her days collecting and observing bugs. As her interest grew, so did her desire to share what she was discovering. According to her parents, “She started collecting bugs every day and observing them… Since then, she has wanted to share her love of bugs with as many people as possible.” What started as a simple spreadsheet has now turned into a full blog, complete with photos, fun facts, and original activity books and artwork created by Ryanne. Her parents assist with the technical aspects—such as uploading photos or formatting posts—while Brightmont integrates the project directly into her learning. During a literacy lesson, her teacher introduced the concept of digital publishing, which opened the door to turning Ryanne’s bug project into something bigger. Brightmont’s one-to-one model allows teachers to weave student passions into academic goals. By using insects as a learning lens, Ryanne is practicing writing structure, safe technology use, research skills, and creative expression. Kimberly Exford, Campus Director, explained, “Brightmont allows students to combine their interests with academic lessons and create an amazing learning experience for kids.” For Ryanne, the blog is also a way to inspire others. In her words: “I wanted to tell everyone all the things I’ve learned about bugs… I want people to be excited about bugs and not scared. They’re fascinating!” Her project showcases how Brightmont Academy embraces student individuality, especially for learners who thrive when their education reflects their passions. The model's flexibility gives students space to pursue unique ideas that might not fit in a traditional classroom. Brightmont Academy is located at 1230 Upper Hembree Road, Suite 101 in Alpharetta and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, January 15th, 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
Graduates tossing their caps on graduation.
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