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Homeschooling: From Going It Alone to Getting the Support You Need

Barbara Farland • March 5, 2025

Homeschooling: From Going It Alone to Getting the Support You Need

What was once considered quite rare–perhaps even a bit odd by some–has become the fastest growing form of education in the nation. We’re talking about homeschooling. More than 3 million children and teenagers nationwide are learning everything from reading to arithmetic—and beyond—under the direction of their parents. 

There are many reasons behind why families turn to homeschooling. For ideological or religious reasons. To enjoy more flexibility in scheduling travel and other family activities. To infuse education into daily life. To customize learning experiences to their children’s interests, personalities, needs, etc. The list goes on. Regardless of the reasons behind the decision to homeschool, many homeschooling families have discovered the benefits of not going it entirely alone. In other words, partnership is key. 


Common Homeschool Partnerships

Many homeschool families seek membership in co-ops ranging from just a few to hundreds of families working in cooperation with one another. Their interactions may be minimal—perhaps they just share a curriculum plan in common—to extensive; some co-ops even meet daily and operate almost like a traditional school, combining their ideas, talents, and resources to create joint educational experiences. 


Partnerships might also take the form of basic skill sharing. For example, a parent in one family might have a strong aptitude in advanced mathematics while a parent in another family is fluent in French. Since it’s difficult for anyone to be a jack of all trades, it makes sense to collaborate and make sure kids have access to experts.   

Co-ops and skill sharing—these are common partnerships that enhance typical homeschool experiences. But what if a family still has some tricky gaps to fill? Or what if the unique needs of a child are hard to meet through existing homeschool resources? Enter Brightmont Academy, otherwise known as the nation’s “one-to-one school.” 


Brightmont As a Homeschool Partner 

What’s special about Brightmont is the foundational value that it shares in common with homeschooling families: one-to-one instruction is best. For more than 25 years, this belief has shaped absolutely every service provided by the school. 

Homeschooling families depend on Brightmont for a variety of reasons, including the following:



Special needs 

The quiet of home tends to be a balm for students diagnosed with anxiety or a learning difference such as ADHD. Their diagnoses might even be the reason why their families turned to homeschooling. Brightmont not only provides a similar calm environment, but also employs teachers well practiced in proven strategies that help neurodiverse students succeed. 


Tutoring and skill building 

Similarly, homeschooled students may need additional support in grasping the material taught at home—that’s when Brightmont’s tutoring services can provide supplemental instruction and tools. Basic skill-building services in reading, writing, and math may also be in order for young kids who are struggling to master foundational concepts and abilities. 


Course selection 

Brightmont boasts more than 110 different courses and electives taught by expert instructors. From general subjects to electives to advanced placement classes, Brightmont maintains an extensive course catalog. 


ACT/SAT prep

Many homeschooling families also rely on Brightmont for ACT/SAT test prep. Once again, the one-to-one instruction—16-20 sessions per student, plus practice tests and consultations—ensures that homeschooled students feel confident and equipped when it’s time to take the actual exam. 

 

Flexibility 

At Brightmont, one-to-one instruction is one big benefit, but so is flexibility. Students may spend anywhere between one hour to several hours a week at Brightmont depending on their course load, family schedule, etc. Furthermore, the school is open weekday mornings, afternoons, and early evenings, which helps families enjoy a fully customized educational experience.   


Technology 

Given Brightmont’s ability to seamlessly present curriculum in an online environment, families also have the option to enroll in remote classes—still one-to-one, still best-in-class. Students have 24-hour access to study materials and many of their assignments, thus homeschool parents and kids can delve into the subject matter together, too. 

Taking all of these benefits into account, many credit Brightmont as the perfect “home away from homeschool.” The school’s one-to-one premise, as well as the countless options it offers to enhance what’s accomplished at home, makes it a natural partner in making sure students get all they need in the ways they need. More than 4,000 kids across the country have already experienced the Brightmont difference—and the school is ready to support thousands more. ï»¿

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. 

March 10, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Only 1% of twice-exceptional students in the United States have access to gifted and talented programs, leaving many bright yet neurodivergent learners without the support they need to thrive. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, is bridging this gap by offering a personalized learning environment where these students can excel at their own pace. Brightmont’s individualized approach allows students to progress at their own pace while receiving the support they need. “We serve a variety of kids, from ADHD, autistic, and other populations, but there is a whole other population that we do a really good job with, which is twice-exceptional or gifted and talented,” says Karen Buckner, CEO of Brightmont. “Brightmont is perfectly designed for these students. Because we're one-to-one, we meet the students where they're at, and that means a second grader can be taking sixth or seventh-grade work. At the same time, if they need to take breaks while they do it, there’s no problem.” Twice-exceptional students often face unique challenges in traditional classrooms, where rigid structures may not accommodate their advanced abilities. “Here we allow them to be as accelerated as they want to be. We have honors, we have AP courses—there’s no limit on you,” Buckner explains. “Parents are often frustrated because they see their kid is bored in their school curriculum. Maybe they didn’t make it into the gifted classes because they were spinning in their chair, and no one gave them the credit for being gifted when they are. The parent knows they’re capable of more and says, ‘The reason they’re spinning in their chair is because they’re bored.’” Buckner shares the story of a young student who thrived in their personalized program. “We have a student enrolled with us right now who started with us last year,” Buckner shares. “He came from a gifted school but wasn’t being challenged. I sat with the young man as he took his STAR test. He was a second grader, so seven years old, and was scoring at the 11th-grade level in math. That’s a big step, and he would never have seen that curriculum in a traditional setting. We enrolled him in Algebra Two, but it said we should be introducing pre-algebra way sooner than he would have been exposed to. We were thrilled to be able to do that, and he’s back here this year, taking a new math course as he enters third grade.” 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
March 3, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Deer Valley, AZ — Social interaction is a fundamental part of overall well-being, especially for children as they develop the unspoken rules of communication and connection. Learning how to collaborate, express themselves, and form friendships is essential for long-term emotional and social success. At Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, students at the Deer Valley campus are given ample opportunities to engage with peers in a supportive and structured environment, ensuring they build essential social skills while receiving individualized instruction. One of the ways Brightmont Academy promotes socialization is through lunchtime activities and special events. "We have monthly birthday celebrations during lunchtime to promote staff and students of all ages socializing. We encourage art class four days a week at lunchtime," says Janie Rosenthal, Campus Director of the Deer Valley campus. "If we know that students are bonding, I call the parents to arrange outside-of-school playdates." Brightmont Academy also designs schedules that foster natural social interactions. "Besides the above options, we encourage schedules to allow students to stay over at lunchtime. It's a good way to encourage the students to meet new students and form friendships," Rosenthal explains. For many families considering a one-to-one learning model, socialization is a top concern. "Most parents feel that a one-to-one environment excludes the opportunity to meet other students," Rosenthal adds. "We go above and beyond to help our kids form friendships." To address these concerns, Brightmont Academy integrates social experiences into the academic journey, proving that a personalized approach to education can still cultivate strong peer connections. Through structured activities, thoughtful scheduling, and an emphasis on community building, Brightmont Academy’s Deer Valley campus ensures that students thrive academically while also forming lasting friendships. The school remains committed to providing a balanced educational experience that nurtures both intellectual growth and meaningful social interactions. Brightmont Academy is located at 2222 W Pinnacle Peak Road, Suite 110 in Deer Valley 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
February 23, 2025
Private School in Broomfield Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Broomfield, CO — Recent studies show that 85% of educators report having students who struggle with executive functioning, which refers to the cognitive skills necessary for managing daily tasks, setting goals, staying organized, and controlling impulses. These skills—such as time management, focus, memory, and the ability to plan and prioritize—are essential for success both academically and in personal life. At Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, students are building these critical skills through innovative programs tailored to meet individual needs. One of the key programs offered at Brightmont Academy is the ECHO (Executive Functioning Coaching and Homework Organization) program. "Brightmont Academy offers the ECHO program which teaches the basic principles of EF while applying EF skills to managing schoolwork," says Cale Dunlap, Campus Director of the Broomfield location. "This program is an important step in the long journey of building EF skills over time." Building EF skills is an ongoing process, which is why Brightmont Academy encourages its students to incorporate these skills into their daily routines. "Brightmont Academy in Broomfield, CO proactively encourages a culture of executive function development," Dunlap explains. "Since EF skills take a long time to build, it is critical to integrate EF development into daily routines." In addition to the ECHO program, Brightmont Academy uses the Socratic Method to foster independent thinking and support EF development. “On our campus, teachers are encouraged to consistently use the Socratic Method to promote independent thinking and EF skills," Dunlap says. "For example, a teacher could simply say, 'Open your book, and let's start reading on page 22.' Instead, a teacher could ask a series of questions prompting the student to figure out what needs to be done. 'What should we work on today?', 'How can we figure out what needs to be done?', 'Where should we start?', 'What steps will we need to take to finish?'" Brightmont Academy is located at 549 Flatiron Blvd, Suite C in Broomfield and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, March 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
By Barbara Farland February 19, 2025
2E Students: Who They Are & What They Need
teacher helps young student on ipad
February 17, 2025
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
high school aged boy and teacher looking at a notebook while standing
February 5, 2025
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
By Jamie Bachmann February 5, 2025
The Future of Education and What It Might Look Like
student looking at a book, adult looking up at child
February 2, 2025
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
January 25, 2025
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
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