August News

Tiffany Samson • August 13, 2020

Brightmont Academy is excited to welcome students as they start the '20-21 academic year! With our mission of serving students in a one-on-one environment, we are uniquely positioned to serve students and their families during this time. Please note the following:



  • See the '20-21 Academic Year Calendar.
  • Our campuses are open for in-person instruction.
  • Students who are sick or are not able to attend in person can do remote learning via Google Meet.
  • We have campus safety guidelines in response to COVID-19. Our staff and students are well versed in the safety protocols and have been very cooperative.
  • All parents and students have online access to the student's schedule and curriculum.
  • Curriculum updates: We are now offering Probability and Statistics as a two-semester course. Additional honors courses will be available later in the school year.
A man wearing a mask stands next to a girl wearing a mask

COVID-19 Updates

We implemented new COVID-19 safety procedures in the summer and have made adjustments to benefit all those on campus. These include:


  • Physical Distancing - Safe distancing (6 feet apart) has been implemented. Homework Studio desks are appropriately spaced. Hallways and stairways are for passing, not for mingling. There are floor markers in several campuses to indicate direction of travel and serve as reminders for safe distancing. Some campuses have enter-only and exit-only doors.
  • Face Coverings - Masks are required prior to students entering the campus. Brightmont Academy will provide a face covering for those who have forgotten to bring their own. For now, face coverings will be worn throughout the campus, including in the classroom. All teachers and staff members are also masked.
  • Hygiene - Students should frequently wash their hands. Sanitizer is available in many areas of our campuses including entrances, classrooms, and common areas. Students should avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Illness - Students should stay home if they are sick. Each campus will have a touchless thermometer on hand. Brightmont Academy reserves the right to use a touchless thermometer. If a child tests positive for a fever, they will be sent home and may not return to campus without a doctor's note.
  • Visitors/Parents on Campus - An appointment is either mandatory or preferred to come into our campuses. Students are encouraged to enter and exit the facilities on their own. Parents who are waiting outside to pick up their child can call the campus.
  • Cleaning - Each campus has been and will continue to be cleaned by a 3rd party on a regular basis. All soft, porous surfaces that could come in contact with skin have been removed. All classrooms and classroom devices are disinfected after each student session.
  • Kitchen Use - There is restricted us of the kitchen. The water fountain/dispenser is out of service. Staff and students need to bring their own food and drink, go off campus for meals, or get delivery. Students who choose to order lunch for delivery will be responsible for meeting the delivery driver outside the campus. We have added a sanitizing station in the entryway.

Google Meet Practice Sessions

A green speech bubble with a video camera inside of it.

Students who are enrolled at Brightmont can get a Google Meet practice session by request. Whether the student will be attending Google Meet on a regular basis or only as needed, it is important students are prepared so that any sessions conducted via Google Meet will be as effective and productive as possible. Students may bring the computer they intend to use for Google Meet to the campus and practice connecting with a teacher via the email invite, using their camera and microphone, sharing their computer desktop in Google Meet, opening and editing Google Docs, and using Google Chat messages to communicate with their teachers. This proactive step provides an opportunity to solve technical issues and learn how to effectively use Google Meet prior to the student's first scheduled class session. Practice sessions may also take place at home, if needed.

Skill-Building Programs

Parents and students have been really grateful for our skill-building programs! This summer we have had many students enrolled to build their skills in math, reading, and writing. This is setting them up for success in their upcoming classes. Some students will continue their programs in the fall. Contact us if you'd like to enhance your child's education with one of our customized skill-building programs!

A man and a woman are sitting at a table in front of a computer.

Student Highlight

We are proud to recognize our most recent graduate! Jessica N. graduated from Brightmont Academy - Broomfield on July 29th!

A woman is standing next to a woman in a graduation cap and gown holding a diploma.

ACT® and SAT® Test and Registration Dates

Brightmont Academy offers Test Prep services. Click here to learn more about preparing for your test.



Parents need to register their student for the ACT and SAT tests on the ACT and SAT websites.

ACT Test Dates

Check the ACT website for registration informationFAQs, and important updates.

SAT Test Dates

Public health restrictions and high demand will result in limited seating capacity for students in certain areas. Check the SAT® website for more information.

More Blog Posts + News


July 7, 2025
Private School in Alpharetta Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Alpharetta, GA — Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, is proud to celebrate the graduation of senior Jolie Levy, whose resilience and determination have led her to not only complete high school but also prepare for her next chapter at Kennesaw State University. Jolie enrolled at Brightmont after experiencing challenges both academically and socially. “I came to Brightmont because I was struggling with school and friendships,” she said. “Brightmont helped me succeed academically and socially. If I had not found Brightmont, I would’ve gone back to North Springs and struggled in school.” Thanks to Brightmont’s one-to-one instruction model and supportive environment, Jolie found the space and support she needed to thrive. “Brightmont is a great school,” she added. Her parents shared that mental health concerns led them to seek out a new educational path midway through high school. “Jolie was pulled out of her private school at the start of her junior year due to significant mental health challenges,” they said. “After finishing a wilderness program and then a partial hospitalization program, we found that Brightmont was the best option to help her graduate and get back on track.” Today, they couldn’t be more proud. “We are incredibly proud of what she has accomplished, and she is going to college on time! We are amazed! We are super grateful to all the teachers and staff at her school. Kimberly Exford has been a crucial part of Jolie’s journey, and her communication with us has been fantastic. We couldn’t be more pleased.” After graduation, Jolie will attend Kennesaw State University, where she plans to continue building on the academic and personal growth she achieved at Brightmont. Brightmont Academy congratulates Jolie and all graduating students who have shown perseverance, courage, and growth during their time at the school. 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, July 17th, 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
By Tony Beals June 25, 2025
Neurodivergent students often face challenges that can make their potential difficult to recognize. In a world that values quick results and standardized progress, the unique ways these students learn and grow are sometimes misunderstood or overlooked. I want to share a story with you about Chinese Bamboo. A farmer went to the market and purchased some seeds to grow the bamboo. He asked the merchant, “What do I need to do to grow this bamboo?” The merchant replied, “Plant these seeds in the ground, water them, and fertilize them every day. If you do that, your bamboo will grow.”
June 23, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, has officially launched a compelling new podcast series that’s now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Released monthly, the podcast serves as both an educational resource and a platform to highlight the transformative impact of individualized instruction, particularly for students navigating ADHD, anxiety, or other learning differences. Each episode explores what makes Brightmont Academy’s approach so distinctive, through personal stories and conversations with campus directors and educational leaders. The podcast is hosted by Griffin Rouse, an ADHD specialist and engaging presenter known for his ability to connect with audiences and break down complex topics into practical strategies for parents and educators. “It’s really rewarding to have the opportunity to talk with Brightmont’s educators about their unique approach to supporting students with ADHD,” said Rouse. “In my work with kids and families, my goal is always to make sure the child feels heard and the parents feel supported and equipped with tools to succeed. This podcast is giving me—and Brightmont—the chance to help a lot of families.” Keith Jackson, Marketing Director at Brightmont Academy, emphasized the mission behind the project. “At Brightmont Academy, we believe every student has a story — and this podcast is our way of amplifying those voices,” Jackson said. “We’ve partnered with Griffin Rouse, who is a dynamic presenter as well as an amazing ADHD expert. He is doing great at shining the light on Brightmont and how different our education is.” Recent guests have included Michelle Platt, Campus Director in Minnesota; Monica Torres, Campus Director in Miami; and Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont Academy, each offering a unique perspective on the power of one-to-one instruction. “This podcast is more than a conversation—it’s a look inside how personalized education changes lives,” Jackson added. “Griffin is kind of pulling back the curtain on ADHD and giving people tips and tricks to help their child navigate life and their schooling. It’s important for us to show as many people as possible what one-to-one instruction really means for students, families, and the future of learning.” With each episode, Brightmont Academy continues its mission to serve students through personalized education and build meaningful connections with families across the country. Brightmont Academy is located in eight states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th RSVP to our next podcast.
June 16, 2025
Private School in Plymouth Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Plymouth, MN — Approximately 1 in 5 school-aged children in the U.S. lives with a chronic medical condition. For many of these students, the effects are more than physical—about one-third experience symptoms serious enough to interrupt their ability to attend or fully participate in school. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, is uniquely positioned to meet these students where they are. With its one-to-one instruction model and year-round scheduling, Brightmont can tailor academic plans to each student’s individual needs, offering consistency and compassion when traditional schools fall short. “Childhood medical issues are a big deal,” said Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont. “Families often want to keep medical concerns private, but these students are fatigued. Staying through an eight-hour school day is incredibly taxing. Brightmont is a great reprieve from a traditional schedule. We’re a place families can turn to when a long day in a crowded school just isn’t manageable, and we’ve been able to help.” This flexible and individualized approach has made a life-changing difference for many students. Jenny Sorenson, Campus Director at Brightmont’s Plymouth location, shared the story of a student who arrived after months of school avoidance. “The one-on-one model made an immediate difference. She started attending regularly and making steady academic progress,” Sorenson recalled. “Later, she faced personal difficulties that required treatment. We put her classes on hold, and when she returned, she picked up right where she left off. With the ability to school year-round, we had solutions when she needed them.” For one Brightmont parent, this personalized structure brought hope in an overwhelming situation. “We chose Brightmont for our daughter because she was struggling in public school,” the parent shared. “She has social anxiety, ADHD, Autism, and OCD. She was missing a lot of school and failing her classes. The one-to-one teaching meant she could go at her own pace and didn’t have to face the anxiety of entering a building with 2,000 peers every day.” Brightmont Academy is located at 2855 Glacier Lane N., Suite 200 in Plymouth and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, July 17th, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
By Barb Farland June 11, 2025
Mention artificial intelligence (AI) to today’s teachers, and many respond with grimaces and groans. It leads to cheating, they say. Students don’t really think when they use AI, others add. A recent Pew Research Center survey revealed that 25 percent of teachers believe AI “does more harm than good.” According to the same survey, nearly half (47 percent) of all teachers are in a quandary: they don’t know if AI is good for education or not.
June 9, 2025
Private School in Seattle Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Seattle, WA — Brightmont Academy’s Seattle campus is expanding its grade school program, with plans to open new classrooms in September 2025. Known for its one-to-one instructional model, Brightmont is extending its support to even more elementary-aged students, offering a personalized, nurturing environment that helps young learners thrive both academically and socially. “Expanding our grade school program gives us the opportunity to support students right from the start with strong academic instruction that builds a solid foundation,” said Tony Beals, Campus Director of Brightmont Seattle. “Just as importantly, it allows children to grow socially and emotionally in a smaller, more supportive setting where they can build confidence, friendships, and essential life skills.” Brightmont is uniquely positioned to serve younger students thanks to its individualized approach. “Brightmont serves grade school students exceptionally well because of our one-to-one instruction, which allows us to build each child’s academic foundation with care and without gaps,” Beals added. “At the same time, our small group activities like art and PE offer a safe and supportive space for students to develop social skills and build positive peer connections.” This expansion responds to growing demand from families seeking alternatives to larger classroom environments. Brightmont’s tailored approach is especially beneficial for students with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or anxiety. “Our program is a great fit for parents of elementary-age students who may be navigating ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or anxiety,” Beals explained. “Brightmont provides a nurturing environment where students can develop confidence, self-awareness, and the skills they need to succeed—both academically and socially—before they risk feeling misunderstood or overwhelmed in a larger school setting.” Parents interested in learning more about the expanded grade school program are encouraged to contact the Seattle campus directly. Brightmont Academy is located at 115 NE 100th St, Ste 200 in Seattle and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, June 12th, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
student wearing headphones working at a computer
June 2, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — While many students find the classroom to be a place of connection and learning, students with misophonia may experience it as a source of daily distress. Misophonia is a condition that causes strong emotional reactions to everyday sounds that most people overlook, such as chewing, breathing, or typing. These trigger sounds can provoke intense discomfort, anger, or panic, leading students to avoid social and academic settings altogether. Often undiagnosed and misunderstood, misophonia tends to emerge around age 12 and can severely impact mental health and academic progress. At Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, students with misophonia are finally finding the understanding and support they need. One such student had a life-changing experience after enrolling at Brightmont, as Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont, recalls: “I had an opportunity to meet a family and a student who was just about to start high school in a larger school environment. Misophonia is a disorder in which not only classroom noise but even everyday sounds, like typing on a keyboard or repetitive movements, can cause huge anxiety.” Recognizing how triggering a traditional school setting can be, Brightmont took deliberate steps to create a customized, quiet learning environment. The student was encouraged to wear noise-canceling headphones throughout the day without fear of judgment or misunderstanding. Brightmont provided a special mouse and keyboard designed to be nearly silent. “The student grabs both of those from the desk as soon as she walks in and knows how to plug them into our computer,” Buckner explained. “We’ve worked with teachers to make sure no one is typing in her presence. Either she’ll step out, or the teacher will leave the room while she sets up her keyboard. It’s teamwork, and it’s really about putting the student first.” At Brightmont, accommodations like these aren’t exceptions; they’re part of the school’s commitment to meeting every student where they are. For those suffering in silence due to conditions like misophonia, this support can be life-changing. “Sound can make school difficult for the student. We want to provide an environment where these students can be successful,” said Buckner. Brightmont Academy is located in eight states and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Superhero standing alone on a mountaintop
By Barbara Farland May 28, 2025
In an August 2024 interview with People magazine , Minnesota governor and vice presidential candidate Tim Walz shared how his son, Gus, has a “secret power.” That is how the Walz family has come to describe Gus’s diagnosis with multiple learning challenges, including ADHD. The Walzes are not alone in seeing neurodiversity’s benefits. Many families, along with teaching and mental health professionals, are now commonly referring to these benefits as “superpowers.” In fact, neurodiversity often proves itself not only advantageous to those directly affected but also necessary to the workings of the world.
May 27, 2025
Private School in Scottsdale, AZ. Providing One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Scottsdale, AZ — One study found that 74% of students identify homework as a source of stress. At Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school offering one-to-one instruction, the Homework Studio (HWS) is turning that stress into success by offering a uniquely supportive and collaborative environment where students thrive, not just academically, but emotionally and socially. Unlike traditional study halls, the HWS at Brightmont functions as a dynamic space for academic and personal growth. Staffed by a team of four dedicated educators, the studio is active throughout the day, helping students manage assignments and much more. “They work as a team to run our campus HWS, which is a pretty busy place throughout the day,” said Sarah Horton, Campus Director of Scottsdale. “In addition to supporting our students with managing and completing their homework assignments, they help our students in a number of other ways. They provide executive functioning skills guidance, show students how to communicate effectively with their instructors, and lead social emotional learning activities.” Each teacher brings a unique perspective, but all are united by a shared passion for student success. “I have been working at Brightmont as a HWS teacher for a little over two years. The dynamics are always changing, and our team is quick to adapt to the changes,” said Madison Overholt, one of the studio’s educators. “We work well together because we come from different backgrounds, but we all have the same heart and intentions. Our students face so many challenges and barriers in education, so it is incredible to see their resilience at work in our environment.” For Jessica Kalicki, another member of the HWS team, working one-on-one with students has renewed her love for teaching. “The HWS is an amazing place to work, and I am excited to be at work every day,” Kalicki said. “Working one-on-one with the students as they need has reignited my passion for teaching. Every hour is different, with a different group and a different dynamic, but the structure, community, and positivity stay the same, and I have to say that it is thanks to the 3 other amazing HWS teachers I work with. Brightmont Academy is located at 6990 E. Shea Blvd, Suite 120 in Scottsdale and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, July 17th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school providing one-to-one instruction. One student works with one experienced teacher throughout every learning session. Full-time customized programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all subjects, test prep and study skills. Since 1999, Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students 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 here: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
More Posts