March News

Brightmont Team • March 18, 2021

Spring is in the air! We're enrolling for summer and fall, graduating students, organizing physically distanced social events on campus, and making improvements to the interiors of our campus buildings.

Summer and Fall Scheduling

Enrollment for summer and the 2021-22 school year has begun! Contact the Campus Director to discuss enrolling your student. Schedule and teacher preferences are first-come, first-served.



The summer months are a great time to complete skill building curriculum or knock out a class or two that would make the 2021-22 school year a little easier

COVID-19 Protocols

We are appreciative of our families for cooperating with COVID-19 protocols this year. We certainly thank our students for coming into campus with their face covering on, hand sanitizing and maintaining distance. Teachers, staff, students and parents have complied with other specific protocols as well.



Due to our safety precautions during COVID-19, our campuses are currently open to scheduled students and teachers and appointments only. All other visitors need to call before coming in.

Student Highlights

Jordyn K. has completed all her high school course requirements at our Brightmont Birmingham campus! Jordyn will be heading to Oakland University this fall to study Elementary Education.



Makayla R. completed high school at our Brightmont Chandler campus!

Campus Events and Photos

Students and teachers at our Redmond campus celebrated Pi day with a pizza lunch! Teachers at our Birmingham campus participated in a math competition.


March 17th was St. Patrick's Day with rainbows, shamrocks, lucky charms, pot of gold and a pinch of green! Students were invited to wear their favorite shade of green and they received special treats!



At our Scottsdale campus, we have re-started lunchtime activities. Recently, our students and staff enjoyed Spanish and French Bingo games, and a multi-day painting activity.

Above: Scottsdale students play Spanish and French Bingo games

A woman wearing a mask is dancing in front of a door.

Above: Redmond students dressed in their color of choice for Favorite Colors Day

Above: Birmingham students and staff celebrated Donut day


Our Mendota Heights and Plymouth campuses are celebrating Earth Day this spring by participating in the 12th Annual Neighborhood Forest free tree program, whose aim is to provide free trees to students every Earth Day.


Since 2010, Neighborhood Forest has reached over 60,000 families and planted over 30,000 (mostly urban and residential) trees through the hands of children and parents across North America.



We endorse this project and are excited to be participating in this wonderful program that teaches students stewardship through the magic and wonder of planting and watching trees grow.


Trees are being delivered to the school and we will arrange to get the trees in the hands of our students on or around Earth Day (April 22).

A young boy wearing a mask is sitting at a table reading a book.

Above: Elijah works the circuit board to create a radio.

Ms. Kathy works with Aleksa; Ms. Tisa works with KJ

Above: Ms. Audrey and Kai work on English; Ms. Heather works with Emberly

Student Testimonials

Two Brightmont students recently commented about their Brightmont experience:

Campus Updates

The Chandler campus is expanding and we are so excited! Currently we have both of the end suites and we are now adding the middle suite to have the entire building. Once construction is completed, all three spaces will be connected on the inside, so students will not need to exit the building to get to their next class.

A building with a lot of cars parked in front of it

Check out our new and improved displays at our Scottsdale campus with information about post-high school planning and SAT/ACT preparation. We've also featured past Scottsdale campus graduates!

A bulletin board for brightmont graduates hangs on a blue wall

Students helped create a "List of Luck" on the campus tree by Homework Studio. Students wrote about something they feel brings them luck and posted it on the tree.

Student Artwork

A black and white drawing of a man with long hair and a beard.

Drawing by student John R., Art Appreciation final project

A black and white drawing of a woman 's face with earrings.

Drawing by student Joanna E.

Community Giving

We had generous contributions for our UMOM book drive!

A table with a box of books and a sign that says umom book drive thank you

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.

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

ACT Test Dates

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


By Tony Beals December 3, 2025
Perfectly Imperfect
Lady refusing to get out of bed
By Barb Farland November 26, 2025
It’s a Monday morning and, as usual, Nora awakens to the chime of her phone alarm. It’s time to get ready for school, but Nora’s parents have a hard time remembering a drama-free morning when she didn’t dawdle, complain of a stomach ache, become really emotional, etc. In fact, Nora hasn’t ridden the bus in two months and has been marked tardy a whopping 21 times. Pair these incidents with six full-day absences this semester, and Nora’s parents feel more than frustrated. They’re legitimately concerned about Nora’s mental health and overall well-being. And they should be. Nora is among the 2-5 percent of students nationwide who struggle with school refusal—and it’s not to be taken lightly.  What is school refusal? What does it look like? And how can families address the issue of school refusal and overcome its characteristic behaviors and consequences? This is what we know…
By Barb Farland November 19, 2025
Flexible Schooling Options for Competitive Athletes and Performers
teacher and student smiling
November 17, 2025
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — As Thanksgiving approaches, Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is taking a moment to reflect on a year filled with growth, gratitude, and student success. With multiple new campus openings in 2025 and plans to open several more soon, Brightmont continues to expand its mission of transforming education through individualized instruction that empowers each student to reach their full potential. Keith Jackson, Marketing Director at Brightmont Academy, shared his appreciation for the families who have made this mission possible. “This Thanksgiving, we’re especially grateful for the families who trust Brightmont Academy to provide a one-to-one education that helps their children thrive,” Jackson said. “Every student’s success story is a reminder of why we do what we do.” Brightmont’s unique model of personalized learning has helped countless students rediscover confidence and joy in the classroom. This season of gratitude serves as a reminder of the small victories that make a big difference in each student’s educational journey. “At Brightmont Academy, gratitude comes from seeing students who once struggled now finding confidence and joy in learning,” Jackson explained. “Thanksgiving reminds us how important it is to celebrate progress, big and small.” The spirit of Thanksgiving also reflects Brightmont’s core values of connection and collaboration. Just as families gather around the table to share gratitude, Brightmont brings together teachers, students, and parents as partners in each child’s education. “Just as Thanksgiving brings families together, Brightmont Academy brings teachers, students, and parents together as a team to create an individualized education plan that truly fits each child,” Jackson said. As families give thanks and look ahead to the new year, Brightmont Academy invites prospective parents to visit a campus and experience firsthand how personalized education can transform a child’s life. With four new locations opening this year, Brightmont continues to offer more families the opportunity to discover a learning environment where students flourish both academically and emotionally. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to schedule a campus tour and see how Brightmont’s one-to-one instruction is changing lives across the country. Brightmont Academy is located in nine 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 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
By Rachel Pollock November 12, 2025
Is there support for your student if they are struggling? What are the class sizes? Do the teachers personalize learning and know their students? Does the school schedule work for your family? Is the school accredited? Does the school offer academic rigor for your child? Does the school have a good reputation and location? Are students college and career ready after graduation? 
Reluctant Teen
November 10, 2025
Private School in Mendota Heights Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Mendota Heights, MN — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is helping families stay informed and connected through its Speaker Series, a free monthly webinar designed to support parents and students. Hosted by Minnesota Campus Directors Michelle Platt of Mendota Heights and Jenny Sorenson of Plymouth, the virtual sessions feature expert speakers discussing topics that matter most to families—ranging from ADHD and adolescent anxiety to sleep issues and school transitions. The Speaker Series began as a way to make professional insight more accessible to Brightmont families. “A big part of my job is networking, and I’m constantly meeting trusted professionals through events, referrals, and outreach,” explained Platt. “The Speaker Series gives families direct access to these experts and helps parents feel connected while learning more about Brightmont Academy and the many resources available to them.” Each hour-long session allows parents to engage in real time with speakers and ask questions through a live chat. Topics have included ADHD, adolescent anxiety, evaluations, sleep, and school avoidance—issues that often impact students’ academic and emotional well-being. “Each speaker shares actionable tips for parents while also giving families a chance to learn more about Brightmont’s unique strengths, such as open enrollment, flexible scheduling, part-time and full-time options, skill building, and executive function programs,” said Platt. The response to the Speaker Series has been overwhelmingly positive. Families can RSVP for upcoming sessions on Brightmont’s website, and recordings are available afterward on Brightmont’s YouTube channel and social media platforms. “For me, the series has strengthened relationships with families and professionals, given me new insights as a director and parent, and expanded the network of resources I can confidently recommend,” Platt said. “Most importantly, it ensures Brightmont families feel supported not just by our school, but by a wider community of experts.” See our webinar recordings and RSVP to upcoming webinars. Brightmont Academy is located at 720 Main Street, Suite 101, in Mendota Heights and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, November 20th, 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 21 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
By Tony Beals November 5, 2025
The Boy, The Horse, and The Lesson We Forget in Teaching
Alesia Stevenson
November 3, 2025
Private School in Raleigh Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Raleigh, NC — Brightmont Academy, a private accredited school offering one-to-one instruction, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alesia Stevenson as the new Campus Director of its Raleigh campus. Stevenson brings a rich background in education, business, leadership, and community engagement, along with a passion for helping students discover their strengths and succeed through personalized learning. Stevenson has spent her career fostering environments where both students and teams can thrive. She has worked extensively in education and organizational leadership, focusing on expanding access to resources and tailoring support to meet individual needs. As both an educator and a parent, Stevenson has experienced first-hand the life-changing impact of individualized instruction. “My background spans education and program development, often in environments where meeting students and families ‘where they are’ is essential,” said Stevenson. “That experience translates directly into Brightmont’s model, which focuses on tailoring instruction to each student’s unique strengths, challenges, and goals.” Stevenson first learned about Brightmont while researching alternative education models centered on the student learning experience. Brightmont’s one-to-one instruction stood out as both innovative and aligned with her vision of student success. “I was drawn to Brightmont because the role allows me to bring together my experience in education, leadership, and community engagement to create meaningful impact,” Stevenson said. “The opportunity to lead a campus where every student receives personalized support felt like a natural extension of my passion for helping young people succeed.” At Brightmont, Stevenson is eager to establish the Raleigh campus as a trusted resource for families seeking alternatives to the traditional classroom. She envisions a school community where students build confidence and resilience alongside academic progress. “My vision is to see our Raleigh campus grow into a trusted educational home for students and families seeking a more personalized path,” Stevenson said. “I believe Brightmont’s individualized approach will resonate in Raleigh, a dynamic city where families value strong, innovative educational options.” Brightmont Academy is located at 6070 Six Forks Rd in Raleigh 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 21 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
Executive functioning student sitting at a desk
By Barb Farland October 29, 2025
Vanessa seems to dawdle when her teacher asks her to begin her math assignment. Marcus has read the directions four times and still has no idea what to do. Shamanth opens his desk to try to find a pencil, which is buried under mounds of crumpled papers. Belinda raises her hand and, in sobs and tears, demands to go to the school counselor’s office. What’s up with these students? Are they being lazy, giving their teacher a hard time, and/or just having a bad day? Perhaps, but there’s also another strong possibility. All of these behaviors may indicate challenges in executive functioning. About Executive Function Executive functioning has very little to do with academic prowess and much more to do with the general operation of the brain. Healthcare and child development professionals typically identify eight important skills related to executive functioning: Initiation - The ability to begin a task Impulse control - The ability not to give in to temptation and behave accordingly Flexibility - The ability to shift from one task to the next Emotional control - The ability to behave appropriately despite contrary emotions Working memory - The ability to remember and apply instructions and other concepts Organization - The ability to create and abide by a system of tidiness Planning - The ability to understand the sequence of necessary steps to accomplish goals and tasks Self-monitoring - The ability to assess one’s own emotions, thoughts, physical condition, etc. Why are these specific capabilities so important? It’s all about what happens as a result. Executive functioning skills lead to effective decision-making, for example, thus poor executive functions could lead to choices that are unwise, emotionally driven, rash, etc., in relationships, physical health, and other areas of life.
More Posts