ACT/SAT Prep: The One-to-One Difference

Barbara Farland • March 7, 2024

 

There are numerous resources out there that promise ACT/SAT success. From in-person cohorts to self-paced on-demand courses to textbook-driven intensives, ACT/SAT prep has become a massive and diverse industry. But there’s one option that stands out from the rest: the one-to-one private school model of Brightmont Academy.

 

A woman is writing on a piece of paper with a pen.

Here’s why… 

Dedicated Practice Time 

What’s special about Brightmont’s ACT prep package is the inclusion of supervised practice time. The first thing students do when they arrive on campus is attend Homework Studio, a quiet, fully equipped classroom for the purpose of independent study. And when we say “quiet,” we mean it—there are never more than four students in Homework Studio at one time. 

Despite the independent nature of Homework Studio, a Brightmont teacher is always at the ready to assist with whatever comes up. That is the sole purpose of the teacher who oversees Homework Studio during each period of the school day. In other words, though students are “on their own” during practice time, they are always in close reach of expert instruction and coaching. 

Immediate Feedback

The next stop is a one-to-one hour-long instructional session led by a teaching specialist in college testing. ACT students get 20 of these sessions in their package, and SAT students receive 16. For ACT students, this means hearing immediate feedback on the practice work they just completed in Homework Studio. 

Why is immediate feedback important? For one thing, the material is fresh to the students, and any concerns or questions are front of mind. Furthermore, research shows that immediate feedback increases the likelihood that students will absorb the material in meaningful and lasting ways; lags between practice and feedback make it more difficult to connect the dots between the students’ misconceptions and the right answers. 

Similarly, when students are corrected quickly, there’s less time for them to adopt and retain inaccurate information. Put another way, the longer a false idea stews, the more likely it will stick. At Brightmont, what does stick is legitimate learning and not just for the sake of test taking.

Personalized Coaching

Brightmont is known for creating highly personalized learning plans for all kinds of students. It’s no different when it comes to ACT/SAT prep. Our teachers are fully committed to respond to the unique needs of each and every individual. 

Everyone comes into Brightmont with different benchmarks and goals. The first step is to gather that information (including results from pre-tests already taken) and to talk frankly about where they’re at and what they want to achieve. Some students need help with their pacing and managing their time in addressing all of the test questions. Others need help developing strategies for discerning the correct answers and eliminating the incorrect ones. Still others need help with how to use all of the equipment and other tools available to them. More often than not, students need help with all of these and other test-taking concerns—and Brightmont is able to respond with holistic, comprehensive coaching. 

A person pointing at a piece of paper with a pencil on it

SAT students experience two full-length practice tests at Brightmont—one before any instructional sessions take place and another between their 15th and 16th sessions. With extensive data in hand, Brightmont instructors know exactly what areas of study need the most attention. Furthermore, the data reveals how the students can best perform “triage” during their actual tests: which questions can be completed right away with ease, which ones need the most work, and which ones might require “the bubble of the day”—picking a random but consistent answer just for the sake of submitting a completed test. 

Likewise, ACT students take a full-length practice test in addition to their 20 hour-long practice sessions. The ultimate goal is to make sure students feel as confident as possible when the big day arrives—and that’s precisely why families rely on Brightmont time and time again. ACT/SAT tests are important, there’s no doubt about that. But perhaps the greatest outcome of Brightmont’s prep process is a confident, can-do spirit that will last a lifetime. That’s the Brightmont difference. Every day. With every student.  

A woman with short hair is smiling in a black and white photo.

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

When Vision Isn’t About Seeing: Rethinking Educational Access for Vision-Challenged Learners

By Tony Beals • February 11, 2026
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.
Nadine Ritchotte

Brightmont Academy Appoints Nadine Ritchotte as Cherry Creek Campus Director

February 9, 2026
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

What's New At Brightmont Academy Birmingham Campus

By Rachel Pollock • February 4, 2026
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 

Brightmont Academy Celebrates Student Success on Every Path

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

Relationships & ADHD: A Matter of Mutual Grace

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

Brightmont Academy Opening in Cherry Creek!

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

Brightmont Academy Celebrates National School Choice Week

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

The Perfect Storm: How Neurodiversity Reshapes Family Life

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

Brightmont Academy Helps Students Get Back on Track During Second Semester

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
More Posts