November News
Tiffany Samson • November 10, 2020
Read our latest news at Brightmont Academy! Last month many of our students dressed up for Halloween and enjoyed treats on campus. Several students completed their courses and received certificates for their achievements. In November we have more activities planned including a food drive and personal reflections on gratitude. We continue to offer both in-person and online instruction to students, and are now offering scheduled sessions of homework assistance on campus and via Google Meet.
Social Events
Students at our Birmingham campus are having a "What Are You Thankful For" activity, and will be enjoying a hot cocoa bar this month.
Last month, students enjoyed celebrating Halloween, cider and donut day, and a nacho bar. Some of our students and teachers had a fun time dressing up both on campus and during remote learning! Student Emberly won the costume contest at the Deer Valley campus. Several of our teachers collaborated on a theme and dressed as Crayola crayons.
Students at our Broomfield campus dressed up for Halloween. Several of the students are also members of the film club and they reviewed Hocus Pocus.
Students at our Castle Pines campus dress up for Halloween.
Students at at Deer Valley and Redmond campuses dressed up for Halloween.
The campus director and teachers at our Deer Valley campus dressed up for Halloween.
Student Success
Jack had attended multiple public and private schools before finding the perfect fit at Brightmont. His mom Michelle says he likes going to school again! If you would like to hear directly from a Brightmont parent or guardian about their experience at Brightmont, please contact us.
The Chandler campus passed out over 30 certificates, recognizing students who had completed a course during the last couple of months!
Homework Studio
Brightmont offers Homework Studio to provide structured time that is built into a student's school day during which the student may work on their homework assignments. Homework Studio sessions are scheduled at a specific time on specific days, like course sessions. A teacher is present to provide support, including helping students with their assignments and reminding them to update their Homework Trackers. It is a group setting so there may be multiple students present for the same session.
Homework Studio is now available via Google Meet for students whose current instruction preference is via Google Meet instead of on campus. It is available during specific hours within the school day. Families who are interested in this option can contact the Campus Director for more information.
Teacher Peggy helps students in Homework Studio both on campus and via Google Meet.
Campus Improvements
At our Redmond campus, we are re-doing our Homework Studio and have added 13 more classrooms to provide one-to-one instruction to more students.
Health and Safety Guidelines
Our families, students and teachers have been respecting and following the COVID-19 safety guidelines to maintain health and safety on our campuses. Students who need to stay at home temporarily may still attend their scheduled sessions via Google Meet. Parents and visitors need to make an appointment to come onto the campus.
November Food Drive
Brightmont Scottsdale's Annual Michael Johnson Memorial Food Drive began November 9th and runs through November 20th. Food donations will benefit St. Mary's Food Bank and be distributed to various programs throughout Arizona in time for the holidays.
Advanced Placement Exams
The College Board recommends that students should find a school and register in the fall for May 2021 exams.
Advanced Placement Deadlines
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 information, FAQs, 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.
Holidays
In observance of Veterans Day, the campus will be closed on Wednesday, November 11. We will also be closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27.
More Blog Posts + News
When a child is diagnosed as 𝗻𝗲𝘂𝗿𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁 —autistic, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, dyslexic (or more likely a combination of those)—it doesn’t just impact that child. It 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 . In my work with families, I hear the same words repeated in different forms: 𝗘𝘅𝗵𝗮𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱. 𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗺𝗲𝗱. 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗱. 𝗔𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗲. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗱. 𝗙𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱. And under all of it— 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲. Fierce, protective love. But that love is also 𝘁𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻. Neurodiversity can be 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 . It can bring out 𝗱𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗵, 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗵𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 . But for many families, it also brings 𝗱𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀, 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗼𝗽𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗼𝘂𝘁 .
Private School in Birmingham Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Birmingham, MI — Many high school students experience their greatest challenges during the first semester, particularly freshmen who are adjusting to higher academic expectations, new social dynamics, and the responsibility of managing their time and coursework more independently. As these struggles become more apparent by winter break, families often begin searching for alternative learning environments that better support their child’s needs—such as Brightmont Academy, a fully individualized school offering one-to-one instruction for students in grades 1–12. For many parents, the first semester represents a final attempt to make a traditional classroom setting succeed. When it doesn’t, families are frequently left reassessing their options midyear, unsure of where to turn or what type of educational model will truly help their child move forward. “At the start of the second semester, we receive so many phone calls from parents who are rethinking whether a traditional setting is right for their child’s current situation,” said Annette Looser, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy’s Birmingham campus. “A lot of parents don’t know what to do when their child isn’t thriving in their current school environment. Oftentimes, they turn to Google to look for other options without even being sure what they’re looking for—and that’s usually when they find Brightmont.” Brightmont Academy is designed to meet students where they are academically, socially, and emotionally. Through its one-to-one instruction model and flexible scheduling, students receive personalized support that allows them to progress at their own pace while addressing challenges that may have gone unmet in traditional settings. Finding Brightmont during the second semester can be a critical turning point, especially for students who may be behind or discouraged after a difficult start to the school year. “The best thing about a family finding Brightmont for the first time during their child’s second semester is that we still have time to fix the current challenges,” Looser added. “Because of our flexible scheduling and one-to-one instruction model, even students who are behind can catch up and stay on track during the current school year.” For parents interested in learning more about Brightmont Academy’s Birmingham campus, contact Annette Looser, Campus Director, at 248-430-3060. Brightmont Academy is located at 746 E Maple Rd in Birmingham and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, February 19th, 2026, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 23 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
At Brightmont Academy , I’ve worked with brilliant students who were labeled as “difficult”, “lazy” or “unsuitable” when really, they just needed different ways to engage. Here are 4 simple ways to make any classroom more inclusive:
Private School in Alpharetta Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Alpharetta, GA — Brightmont Academy is celebrating the creativity of one of its youngest students, second grader Ryanne Das, who recently launched her own blog dedicated entirely to the world of bugs. What began as a summer curiosity has evolved into a digital project that blends science, writing, research, and technology, supported by Brightmont’s fully individualized, one-to-one instruction model. Ryanne’s fascination with insects started during a visit to her grandmother’s farm, where she spent her days collecting and observing bugs. As her interest grew, so did her desire to share what she was discovering. According to her parents, “She started collecting bugs every day and observing them… Since then, she has wanted to share her love of bugs with as many people as possible.” What started as a simple spreadsheet has now turned into a full blog, complete with photos, fun facts, and original activity books and artwork created by Ryanne. Her parents assist with the technical aspects—such as uploading photos or formatting posts—while Brightmont integrates the project directly into her learning. During a literacy lesson, her teacher introduced the concept of digital publishing, which opened the door to turning Ryanne’s bug project into something bigger. Brightmont’s one-to-one model allows teachers to weave student passions into academic goals. By using insects as a learning lens, Ryanne is practicing writing structure, safe technology use, research skills, and creative expression. Kimberly Exford, Campus Director, explained, “Brightmont allows students to combine their interests with academic lessons and create an amazing learning experience for kids.” For Ryanne, the blog is also a way to inspire others. In her words: “I wanted to tell everyone all the things I’ve learned about bugs… I want people to be excited about bugs and not scared. They’re fascinating!” Her project showcases how Brightmont Academy embraces student individuality, especially for learners who thrive when their education reflects their passions. The model's flexibility gives students space to pursue unique ideas that might not fit in a traditional classroom. 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, January 15th, 2026, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 23 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
The Best Thing About Credit Recovery at Brightmont Academy Is That It doesn’t Take Months to Finish a Course
Private School Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students National — Brightmont Academy, a private school providing one-to-one instruction for students in grades 1–12, is celebrating its strongest year in company history. In 2025, Brightmont reached over 1,600 students nationwide, its highest total since the school was founded 25 years ago. CEO Karen Buckner says this milestone affirms what families have been seeking in today’s education landscape. “It was super exciting to be involved in a school setting where we're continuing to grow enrollment every year. And last year for 2025 was record enrollment for us.” According to Buckner, parents are increasingly looking for a setting where their children feel supported, understood, and academically encouraged. Brightmont’s one-to-one model and flexible learning structure have helped meet these needs. Buckner notes that many students have faced academic challenges in recent years, and families are prioritizing environments that adapt to individual learning needs. “I think it really validates what a lot of people are saying, that their kids need a personalized educational approach… our ability to meet the students where they're at, be in a one-to-one environment where the student doesn't have to feel self-conscious about any weaknesses… Brightmont fills both needs, and we do it very well.” Brightmont continues to see enrollment growth across elementary, middle, and high school levels. The school’s small, supportive setting has resonated with families who want a place where their child feels safe, welcomed, and motivated. With demand rising, Brightmont is preparing for another strong year. The school anticipates surpassing its record again in 2026 through both enrollment increases and campus expansion. “They are looking for personalized instruction. They're looking for a safe environment. They're looking for a place where their kid can feel welcomed and are excited about attending school… all of those trends are things that Brightmont has. 2026 is going to be a very exciting year for Brightmont.” In 2026, Brightmont plans to open several new locations, bringing its total to almost 30 campuses nationwide, doubling since 2023. Several existing campuses are also expanding or relocating to better serve growing student populations. Brightmont Academy is located in nine states, which will soon be ten next month, and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 23 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Private School in Broomfield Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Broomfield, CO — 1 in every 31 children in the United States has autism, highlighting a growing need for community support, individualized learning options, and stronger connections for families. Brightmont Academy is proud to share that Cale Dunlap, Campus Director of the Broomfield location, is serving as a board member for the Autism Society of Boulder County (ASBC), an organization dedicated to empowering individuals and families affected by autism for more than two decades. Founded in 2001 as a parent support group, the Autism Society of Boulder County has grown into a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit and an affiliate of the Autism Society of America. The organization provides resources, social opportunities, and community-building programs for individuals on the autism spectrum across Boulder and Broomfield counties. Cale first became connected to ASBC through the parent of a former student who recognized his commitment to supporting neurodivergent learners. As Cale explains, “I had worked with his autistic son for years, and he appreciated the passion I have always had for helping neurodivergent students develop to their full potential.” Since joining the Board of Directors, Cale has collaborated with other members to expand the organization’s reach and provide meaningful experiences for families. ASBC offers a wide range of programs—including support groups, bike camps, rafting trips, and community-building events—that help families access resources they may not otherwise have. Cale has seen firsthand the impact of this work. “These programs have helped create a community of support for those who need it,” he said, noting that shared experiences and accessible activities strengthen both confidence and connection among participants. Cale’s involvement with ASBC has also influenced his work at Brightmont Academy. He shared, “Working with ASBC has helped me to be a more effective leader in my role at Brightmont Academy. It has allowed me to strengthen my connections to our local community and to engage with those people we are trying to serve.” This dual role allows Cale to better understand the challenges neurodivergent students and families face, ensuring Brightmont continues to offer pathways for students who need an alternative academic experience. Brightmont Academy is located at 549 Flatiron Blvd, Suite C in Broomfield and is currently accepting enrollments. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 23 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Falling Behind
Private School in Miami Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Miami, FL — Estimates vary, but Florida typically hosts about one million snowbirds who stay for at least a month during the winter. Among those escaping the cold are families who want to ensure their children’s education continues without interruption—and Brightmont Academy’s Miami campus is ready to make that possible. To Campus Director Monica Torres, this seasonal migration represents a unique opportunity for students to learn in a new environment without disruption. “When we talk about snowbird families, we’re referring to those who relocate temporarily to Florida—often during the colder months—to escape harsh winter weather up north or abroad,” said Torres. “At Brightmont, we absolutely love welcoming these families to our South Miami campus. Because our school runs on a fully individualized, one-to-one model, students can continue their academic programs seamlessly while enjoying the SoFlo sunshine!” Brightmont’s one-to-one structure provides the kind of adaptability that traditional classroom settings often cannot. Each student learns directly with a teacher who adapts lessons to their schedule, pace, and location, making it ideal for families splitting time between states. “Our one-to-one structure is what makes this possible,” Torres explained. “Every student here learns with their own teacher, on their own schedule, and at their own pace. That means we can create a plan that perfectly fits a snowbird family’s timeframe—whether you’re here for a couple of months or the whole season. We can even blend learning between in-person and online if you’re planning to travel further or head back home mid-year. It’s truly flexible, so education never has to pause for the adventure.” This approach has already attracted families from across the country who are eager to take advantage of both Florida’s sunshine and Brightmont’s consistent academic model. “This year we have a family from Boston—they love the Florida sunshine but also want consistency in their son's education,” said Torres. “What’s special is how quickly students settle in here—our small, welcoming environment makes it easy to feel at home.” As the snowbird season begins, Torres encourages families to reach out early to learn how Brightmont can help make the move effortless. “I’d love to connect!” she said. “Reach out to schedule a visit or virtual consultation—we can talk through their plans and see how Brightmont can make the transition easy and meaningful for their child.” Brightmont Academy is located at 6101 SW 76th Street in Miami 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
