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2E Students: Who They Are & What They Need
Barbara Farland • February 19, 2025
2E Students: Who They Are & What They Need
Though the terms “twice exceptional” and “2E” are relatively new to the educational scene, all of us can probably think of a 2E student we encountered in our youth once we know what 2E means. Remember the kid who knew a ton about history and literature, but had a hard time relating to their classmates? Or how about the one who made amazing art projects, but couldn’t get their head around math, science, and other highly conceptual subjects? It’s possible both of these students were twice exceptional.
What is 2E? It’s when a child exemplifies incredible intelligence or talent, while also being diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder, which may manifest either academically or socially. In other words, the student is exceptional in two areas—they deserve special attention when it comes to their extraordinary competencies and require special support when it comes to advancing in their studies and socialization.
In other words, there’s much to learn about and consider in serving 2E students well. The following offers further insight into who they are and what they need to cope and progress.
Who They Are
Psychology Today reports that about 17 percent of students enrolled in gifted and talented programs are 2E. The International Dyslexia Association says that as many as 2-5 percent of all school-age kids—if not more—fit the 2E profile.
The exceptionality of giftedness may be demonstrated in countless ways. Though the list of such manifestations is endless, the U.S. has developed a system of categorization, which is made up of five main areas of giftedness:
- General Intellectual Ability - A student tests high in IQ and/or exhibits extraordinary cognitive abilities in problem-solving and other intellectual reasoning.
- Specific Academic Aptitude - A student demonstrates exceptional aptitude in one school subject, such as math or science, but shows fairly average marks in other coursework.
- Creative or Productive Thinking - A student is known for their inventiveness, connecting seemingly unrelated ideas to generate unique insights, solutions, etc.
- Leadership Ability - A student stands out for their charisma and/or emotional intelligence, which have a marked effect on their relationships with others and their ability to persuade, resolve conflict, maintain peace, etc.
- Visual and Performing Arts - A student either shows great artistic skill in drawing, sculpting, singing, dancing, etc., or possesses a sophisticated appreciation and understanding of art forms.
Giftedness is one aspect of the 2E life—learning or social concerns are the other. Though learning differences also run the gamut, the following are a few common diagnoses:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - As its name implies, ADHD is characterized by inattentiveness, as well as the tendency to be restless and impulsive. Though all people exhibit these behaviors from time to time, they become commonplace among those with ADHD.
- Dyslexia - Dyslexia is one of the “Four Ds” (see the next bullet points for the other three) that affect specific areas of learning. Those with dyslexia find it difficult to process written and/or verbal language-related material.
- Dysgraphia - Those with dysgraphia are compromised in their ability to write. Thus, their written work might appear quite askew, even completely illegible.
- Dyscalculia - While dyslexia and dysgraphia affect students’ performance in Language Arts, dyscalculia is related to Mathematics. In addition to struggling with mathematical operations such as adding and multiplication, those with dyscalculia might have compromised abilities in counting and categorizing.
- Dyspraxia - Learning involves some physical abilities in addition to cognitive. For those with dyspraxia, their limitations in physical coordination affect their learning (e.g., trouble grasping a pencil properly and forming letters/symbols).
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - As the name implies, people who are diagnosed with ASD may fall anywhere on the spectrum between very functional and not very functional at all. Autistic symptoms typically present relationally, be it in social situations or when any outside stimulus triggers unusual behaviors, such as stimming (atypical hand movements, eye fluttering, spinning, etc.). In other words, those with ASD experience disconnection between their interior and exterior world.
What They Need
More often than not, there’s a great imbalance when it comes to meeting the needs of 2E students. Their teachers and caregivers tend to focus on their giftedness over their learning/social issues, or vice versa. What such students actually need is a solution that takes their whole stories into account—a solution that nurtures their giftedness and helps them overcome their learning differences.
Most traditional schools rarely recognize the need for 2E students to experience both special academic challenges and support—it’s either/or in those environments. Such schools do not have the human capital and other educational resources to provide a uniquely tailored curriculum for every student. In short, it’s impossible to serve 2E students well.
But 2E students enjoy endless possibilities when they attend Brightmont Academy, otherwise known as “the one-to-one school.” Brightmont’s mission is all about customization for each and every student according to their specific needs. Rigorous coursework across all subject areas, along with a wide range of electives and advanced placement courses, offers challenging and dynamic learning experiences. At the same time, Brightmont’s one-to-one teaching model means learning differences are addressed with great compassion and strategy.
All together, this equates to a place where 2E students feel they really belong and can succeed. At Brightmont, they are considered both exceptional and extraordinary—unquestionably capable of contributing to the world in unique and meaningful ways. It’s through the unique strengths and needs of 2E students that Brightmont has the privilege to make a difference, too.
Sources:
- https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/articles/how-to-support-your-twice-exceptional-child
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/much-more-common-core/202007/equity-twice-exceptional-students
- https://dyslexiaida.org/gifted-and-dyslexic-identifying-and-instructing-the-twice-exceptional-student-fact-sheet/
- https://www.yourtherapysource.com/blog1/2023/08/23/types-of-giftedness-2/
- https://childmind.org/article/twice-exceptional-kids-both-gifted-and-challenged/#:~:text=What%20are%20twice%20exceptional%2C%20or,ADHD%2C%20dyslexia%2C%20or%20autism.
- https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd
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.
Private School in Birmingham Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Barrington, IL — With just a little over 50% of parents considering or having considered choosing a new school for their child, Brightmont Academy’s Barrington campus stands out as a trusted solution for personalized education. As a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, Brightmont provides a supportive and targeted learning environment that fosters both academic achievement and personal development. The Barrington campus has experienced remarkable growth, further solidifying its reputation as a top choice for families seeking individualized education. Brightmont Academy’s distinctive one-to-one model allows students to progress at their own pace, receiving individualized attention from dedicated instructors. “The Brightmont structure is different. It's very targeted. It's that one-to-one experience,” says Barb Sitkiewicz, Campus Director of the Barrington campus. “Students can go through coursework and gain much with that one-to-one.” In addition to academic support, Brightmont creates a welcoming environment where students feel valued. “Once they get to Brightmont and are appreciated and welcomed and feel part of our community, it makes it easier for them to show up consistently,” Sitkiewicz explains. This sense of belonging plays a crucial role in helping students thrive. At Brightmont, transformation extends beyond academics. Many students arrive facing significant challenges but leave with newfound confidence and capability. “You wouldn't recognize them from the first day they walked into Brightmont to now,” Sitkiewicz shares, highlighting the profound personal growth experienced by students. Parents seeking an alternative to traditional education find that Brightmont’s personalized model offers an ideal solution for students who need individualized attention to succeed. By combining flexibility, rigorous academics, and emotional support, Brightmont Academy continues to change lives and prepare students for a brighter future. Brightmont Academy is located at 400 E. Main St. in Barrington and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, February 20th, 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
Private School in Birmingham Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Birmingham, MI — Roughly 6 percent of students with disabilities are considered "twice-exceptional" (2E)—students who are gifted but also face challenges like ADHD, autism, or dyslexia. In traditional school settings, their intelligence often masks their disabilities, leaving them unsupported, or they are placed in programs that address their challenges but fail to nurture their advanced abilities. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, is transforming education for 2E students by unlocking their full potential. With its innovative blend of support and challenge, Brightmont provides an environment that fosters both academic achievement and personal growth for twice-exceptional students. "Brightmont is a supportive, one-to-one learning environment that helps 2E students reach their full potential," says Annette Looser, Campus Director of the Birmingham location. "At Brightmont, we address the students' giftedness and disability at the same time in a nurturing, challenging environment." With one-to-one instruction, students progress at their own pace, mastering foundational skills while excelling in advanced areas. "At Brightmont, it is common for a second-grade 2E student to have the ability to work up to completing fifth-grade math," Looser explains. "Brightmont teachers focus on building a strong foundation in basic math concepts using visual aids and manipulatives, gradually progressing to more complex topics at a pace that matches their understanding. It is easy at Brightmont for students to closely collaborate with their teachers." Parents of twice-exceptional children often face a unique set of challenges, from ensuring their child's talents are nurtured to addressing their learning disabilities effectively. Brightmont offers a solution that addresses both needs, helping families create a path for success. "Parents who have highly intelligent students who struggle in their current school environment due to a learning disability, ADHD, or sensory integration disorder have gifted children who often fly under the radar," Looser adds. "Parents who feel that their child's full potential is not being recognized may benefit greatly from Brightmont's program." Brightmont Academy is located at 33483 Woodward Avenue in Birmingham and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, February 20th, 2025, between 8:00 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
The Future of Education and What It Might Look Like
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, continues to build its reputation for providing personalized education and exceptional support for students and families. With a mission to help students reach their full academic potential and prepare for college and career, Brightmont is proud to have already helped more than 4,000 students succeed. Brightmont remains dedicated to offering customized education that caters to each student’s unique learning needs. Many families initially seek to make their original school work, but years later, they return to Brightmont after realizing the difference it could have made earlier. “We often have families who came to us two or three years after their initial tour. One of the first things they say is, ‘I wish I had done this a few years ago.’ They knew something was off, but they wanted to give their school another try,” says Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont. Brightmont’s one-to-one instructional model has received widespread acclaim for its engaging, interactive approach. “I think people would be really surprised at what they see when they visit one of our campuses,” says Buckner. “They often envision a cold, impersonal environment when they hear ‘one-to-one,’ but what they find is a vibrant, interactive space where students are engaging with their teachers and peers. It’s not just about sitting at a computer—it’s about learning, socializing, and growing in a supportive environment.” On the third Thursday of each month, Brightmont hosts an Open House, providing a scheduled opportunity for families to meet with campus directors, tour the school, and ask questions about Brightmont’s one-to-one approach to learning. “The third Thursday of every month is a scheduled opportunity where the campus director, who is the leader of that school, has kind of cleared their calendar to make themselves available to meet with families who are interested in learning more about Brightmont and how we can support their child’s academic journey,” explained Buckner. For those who need assistance outside of these events, Brightmont is always available to provide support. “If you are in need of Brightmont services before then, we always will make time to make that happen,” adds Buckner. Brightmont Academy is located in eight states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is hosting a nationwide Open House on Thursday, February 20th. 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
Private School in Atlanta and Alpharetta Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Atlanta and Alpharetta, GA — Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, is celebrating the remarkable growth of its Georgia campuses. With the established success of the Alpharetta Campus and the recent opening of the Atlanta Campus, Brightmont continues to solidify its reputation as a trusted resource for families and professionals seeking individualized learning solutions. The new Atlanta Campus recently hosted its Grand Opening & Open House, drawing an enthusiastic crowd. “The Grand Opening & Open House event was a tremendous success!” said Aisha Walker, Vice President of School Development. “Families and local professionals had the opportunity to tour our beautiful new Atlanta Campus and meet Campus Director Robyn Brunson, CEO Karen Buckner, and myself. Parents were particularly excited about our personalized, one-to-one approach to learning. Additionally, local professionals—including psychologists, neurologists, educational consultants, and mental health providers—were thrilled to welcome our new campus as a resource for their clients seeking alternative and individualized learning solutions.” Brightmont’s one-to-one instructional model, coupled with rolling admissions and flexible scheduling, has quickly made its Georgia campuses stand out as inclusive, accessible options for students of all learning needs. “We have been delighted to see a strong response from families since opening our doors a couple of months ago,” said Walker. “With rolling admissions and flexible scheduling being two of our standout options, we have already begun enrolling new students. These unique offerings make our program accessible and adaptable to a wide range of student needs, ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive.” The success of the Atlanta Campus is supported by the leadership of Robyn Brunson, whose dedication to personalized education has been instrumental. “Robyn Brunson brings an unwavering passion for differentiated learning and a deep commitment to helping families discover the best solutions for their children’s academic journeys,” said Walker. “Her drive to connect with the community ensures that families and local professionals alike have access to the transformative education Brightmont provides.” Brightmont Academy is located at 1161 Concord Rd SE Suite 100 in Atlanta and 1230 Upper Hembree Road, Suite 101 in Alpharetta, 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
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Brightmont Academy recently completed its accreditation review with Cognia, a globally respected organization that evaluates schools on rigorous standards on academic excellence and student engagement. The review highlighted Brightmont’s exceptional performance, with scores significantly exceeding national averages. Brightmont achieved perfect scores of 4.0 across multiple key metrics, compared to a national average of 3.0 to 3.1. “We just came up on our annual review, and I could not be more proud of our organization and how well we scored,” said Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont Academy. “A third-party organization, reviewing thousands of schools across the country, and saying, ‘Yes, Brightmont, you are educating students the way we would want a school to do it’—is very validating.” Cognia’s accreditation process evaluates schools worldwide on factors such as student engagement, academic outcomes, and instructional quality. This ensures families can trust the quality of education provided and the credits earned at Brightmont. “When parents ask if we’re accredited, they typically expect a ‘yes or no’ answer,” Buckner explained. “What I think most parents mean by that is, ‘If my student earns a credit here, will that credit mean anything to another school?’ The answer is yes, but it’s important to know that accreditation goes deeper than that. You can be accredited but still have lots of areas to improve on. One of the factors that sets Brightmont apart is that we scored significantly higher than the national average in key metrics that matter to parents.” Brightmont’s unique one-to-one instructional model allows for a personalized education that prepares students for long-term success. The school’s commitment to high standards and adaptability ensures that students thrive while families gain peace of mind knowing their child’s education is prioritized. “Our mission is to prepare students for whatever the next chapter brings,” Buckner said. “Should a 10th-grade Brightmont student choose to transfer to a large public school to play the trumpet in a school band, they should be able to do that. We ensure that what students learn at Brightmont is aligned with state standards and prepares them for whatever comes next. Parents appreciate that Brightmont is not just accredited but that their child is learning something meaningful and earning grades that reflect real achievement.” Brightmont’s remarkable accreditation scores underscore its dedication to preparing students for success in every stage of life. Brightmont Academy has 20 locations across 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
Private School in Miami and Boca Raton Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Miami and Boca Raton, FL — Tens of thousands of students in the Southeast face major disruptions due to hurricanes, with severe storms causing damage to homes, campuses, and infrastructure. Public schools often experience prolonged closures after these events, but Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school, ensures that students stay on track with its one-to-one instructional model and flexible learning options. Brightmont’s personalized learning model enables students and families to navigate Florida’s unpredictable weather with ease. “At Brightmont, we’re fully prepared to adapt to Florida’s unpredictable weather,” says Monica Torres, Campus Director of the Miami location. “Our one-to-one model enables us to move seamlessly between in-person and online instruction. If online classes aren’t an option due to power outages, or if a specific student isn’t suited to virtual learning, we can pause classes. Once it’s safe to return to campus, students pick up right where they left off, ensuring no loss in progress.” Brightmont’s ability to tailor learning plans guarantees students don’t fall behind during weather-related closures. “Public schools often follow a fixed schedule, so when closures happen, students miss class time and may need to rush or skip content,” Torres explained. “Brightmont offers flexibility. Our students can switch to online instruction or pause learning, depending on what’s best for them. This ensures no learning is sacrificed, and families can focus on safety, knowing their child’s education won’t be disrupted.” Brightmont Academy is located at 6101 SW 76th Street in Miami and 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, January 16th, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM at the Miami location and between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM at the Boca Raton location. 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
It’s clear that students benefit immensely from a one-to-one teaching model. Students receive undivided attention, experience less distraction, and enjoy an approach that meets their precise needs. But how do teachers feel about it? Do they benefit from it, too? At Brightmont Academy , the resounding reply is “yes!” — and for many reasons. For the most part, those reasons can be summed up in three key words: customization, efficiency, and connection. Customization Many people envision education as a teacher at a blackboard explaining a concept to a classroom full of students—relying on one approach and one technique to serve the masses. But that scenario is quite different at Brightmont. “You can adjust your teaching to how the student learns,” says Kate Doan, a Science and Math teacher at Brightmont in Mendota Heights, Minn. In other words, it’s always student first, concept second, in devising a teaching method. “For example, today I was covering how to solve a problem in math with one of my students,” adds Kate. “I was able to ask about her preferred method to work through a math problem, then I showed her how to do it in her preferred way.”
Private School in Birmingham Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Birmingham, MI — According to a national survey, public school leaders estimate that 44% of students are behind grade level in at least one subject. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school renowned for its one-to-one instruction and flexible approach to learning, addresses this challenge through its Skill Building programs—customized sessions designed to close academic gaps and build student confidence. Skill Building programs are a cornerstone of Brightmont’s mission to provide customized education that meets students where they are. “Skill Building programs are customized programs that help students focus directly on gaps in their learning,” says Annette Looser, Campus Director of Brightmont’s Birmingham location. “Students take an assessment at Brightmont, and our curriculum team does a deep dive into the results to determine the best use of their time in a 1:1 environment—either to catch up to grade level or to move ahead.” Brightmont’s one-to-one instructional model ensures every student receives individualized attention and a program tailored to their unique learning needs. The duration of the program is flexible, depending on the student’s goals. “Students attend for a specific number of sessions to close the biggest gaps in their learning or to advance in their learning. Some students attend for 20 sessions, some attend for 40, some attend all year for 120 sessions,” Looser explained. In addition to academic progress, Skill Building programs emphasize building confidence in areas where students may struggle. “The best thing about Skill Building is that the programs always build student confidence in areas where they may not have felt the best in school—areas like math, writing, grammar, and reading,” Looser shared. “Many students who were way behind grade level have worked on their skills all year and have caught up to their peers. Some students attend in the summer months to prevent the summer slide, and they return to their school environment ahead of grade level, making the school year much more comfortable in math and reading.” Contact Annette Looser to schedule a pre-assessment and see what program might be right for your student. Brightmont Academy is located at 33483 Woodward Avenue in Birmingham and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, January 16th, 2025, between 8:00 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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