The Importance of Prioritizing Engagement Over Compliance
Barb Farland • April 16, 2025
The Importance of Prioritizing Engagement Over Compliance
Charlotte Mason was a 19th-century Christian educator who continues to make her mark among teachers. She probably put it best when it comes to one of the most noble aims of education…
"The question is not, -- how much does the youth know? when he has finished his education -- but how much does he care?”
Unfortunately, many schools prioritize the parroting of facts and figures among their students over nurturing a genuine curiosity for how the world works, what beauty it holds, and how all people can make a difference. In other words, more often than not, such schools prioritize compliance over engagement, and students suffer for it.
So what is the difference between compliance and engagement? How does true engagement happen? And what kind of school nurtures students who truly care about life and the world around them? Let’s take a look…
Compliance vs. Engagement
When schools value compliance, their expectations revolve around rules. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with rules—we can only imagine the mayhem that would ensue if rules weren’t part of the experience. But compliance takes a devastating turn when students simply abide by rules in order to avoid negative consequences. In turn, such students can easily fly under the radar and operate out of a survivalist mentality. For them, academics feel necessary but flat, and end up being just the means to an end: a diploma.
In contrast, engagement is about personalizing academic concepts and discovering an inner motivation to learn—truly learn—more. It means not only completing assignments and striving for good grades, but also savoring the material: examining it, discussing it, asking questions about it, forming opinions about it, etc. In other words, engagement is active and much more likely to make a lasting difference.
What Engagement Looks Like
Intentionality is at the heart of student engagement. So is a holistic, relational approach. More specifically, an environment that values authentic engagement:
- Honors self-advocacy & student buy-in - It promotes self-awareness—knowledge of how I think, how I feel, how I work best—and communicating those needs, preferences, etc., in a constructive way in the classroom. This also sets up a student to weigh in on goal setting, as well as the processes to follow in accomplishing those goals.
- Presents challenging work
- Though some students are hesitant at first to share how they’re confused, struggling, etc., such questions fuel deep and engaged learning. Challenging coursework leads to problem solving, contextual analysis, and other skills that serve students well for years to come.
- Employs attentive, strategic teachers - There’s no such thing as just going through the motions when it comes to teaching. Real teaching isn’t happening if this is the case. Engagement goes both ways in the classroom; engaged teachers offer relevant support and use thoughtful strategies that address each student’s specific needs.
- Considers the bigger picture - As Mason said, learning should trigger a sense of caring, thus engaged students are forward-thinking and consider how their academics will help them contribute to society and lead a fulfilling life for the long term. Good schools don’t neglect their responsibility in championing this mindset.
- Remains flexible & adjusts as needed - Everything is temporary. Change is necessary. And student life is not exempt from both of these realities. Meaningful engagement requires flexibility as student needs and preferences shift.
Where Engagement Happens
Though many schools pride themselves on engaging their students, Brightmont Academy —the nation’s “one-to-one school”—is among the very few that have built its whole educational model upon this aim. Because all classes are conducted between one instructor and one student, there’s no way around not only requiring compliance, but also seeking and accomplishing meaningful engagement. There’s no fading into the background at Brightmont.
Perhaps the easiest way to demonstrate Brightmont’s commitment to engagement is through the school’s six values:
- Student care - It starts with student needs. Since many of Brightmont’s students come with diagnosed learning differences, it’s crucial to be honest about their strengths and struggles, and what those characteristics mean for their studies.
- Culture - However, no matter a student’s background, Brightmont believes that every student can succeed. With this value at the forefront of the school’s culture, students gain confidence in who they are and what they can do.
- Instruction - Meaningful engagement often entails sharing and conversation with others. At Brightmont, each student gets the undivided attention of their teachers as they review, process, and discuss material together.
- Communication - Be it communication between teachers, or with students, parents, or other stakeholders, Brightmont advocates for “proactive, honest, and regular dialogue; being active listeners; [and] respecting the opinions of others.” In other words, the school values engaging all parties in positive, constructive ways.
- Outcomes - Goal-setting is the premise of this value. At Brightmont, this means constant improvement and progress monitoring, all while engaging students and their families in this continual process of reassessing and adjusting.
- Leadership - Brightmont sets high expectations for itself and its students. But educational excellence is much more than providing rigorous coursework and expert teaching. It’s about maximizing that coursework and teaching for the long term so that students can lead fulfilling, productive lives.
Compliance is important in all kinds of scenarios, but engagement is critical as the mark of quality education. Today’s students deserve this, and schools like Brightmont can give it. In the end, students possess the lifelong skills to successfully engage with the world around them and to continue to learn and grow.

Source:
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.
More Blog Posts + News
Private School in Mendota Heights Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Mendota Heights, MN — Between 32% and 35% of teens with ADHD will drop out of school before graduation, a stark statistic that highlights the challenges these students face in traditional learning environments. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school, offers a proven alternative: a one-to-one instructional model tailored to each student's learning needs, helping them build confidence and excel academically. Brightmont creates a structured yet adaptable environment that minimizes distractions and fosters engagement, providing students with the tools they need to succeed. This method is especially beneficial for students with ADHD, who often struggle with traditional classroom settings and benefit from customized learning experiences. "Brightmont’s one-to-one instructional model is designed to reduce distractions and meet each student’s unique needs," says Michelle Platt, Campus Director of Brightmont Mendota Heights. "Our teachers form strong bonds with their students and make accommodations throughout the day to strengthen their learning, whether it’s providing short breaks, using text-to-speech tools, offering audiobooks, or creating quiet spaces.” Brightmont also prioritizes collaboration with parents to develop personalized education plans. "I reassure parents that our teachers have extensive experience working with children with various learning differences, including those diagnosed with ADHD," explains Platt. "In our first meeting, we discuss academic goals and how Brightmont can help achieve them. As a campus director, I collaborate with our academic team and teachers to create an optimized schedule, curriculum, course load, pacing, and roadmap customized to each student’s goals and needs." The positive impact of Brightmont is evident not just in academic success but also in students’ enthusiasm for learning. "I measure success by the happiness of our students, and the gratitude of the families," says Platt. "Many of these students felt misunderstood, inadequate, or avoided school in the past. These same kids come to school excited, feel cared for, and safe. So many of my students tell me the same thing, ‘I like it here.’” 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, April 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
I work with a lot of students who have ADHD and struggle with focus and writing. Although many see this as a detriment and try to slow them down, trying to force an ADHD brain to operate like a neurotypical brain can be frustrating and demotivating for the student. However, I find their ability to hyper-process a strength and appreciate their ability to take in so much stimulation, even if it causes them fatigue. Helping them to embrace how their brain functions and use that to their advantage will help them adapt and find ways to harness the power that they have. Below are some tips on how to support students with ADHD in their learning. Imagine that an ADHD brain is like a hurricane machine, constantly swirling thoughts, ideas, distractions, and emotions. The winds are powerful, and the storm is unpredictable. One moment, you’re focused on a task, and the next, you’re swept away by a new thought or feeling, leaving you feeling lost in the storm. However, if you could adapt the hurricane machine, you could use it to help manage the whirlwind of energy. Here’s how: 1. Focus Zones (Creating and accessing the “Calm Eye”) An ADHD brain is constantly swirling with and processing ideas, sounds, feelings, and energy, and at the center of the storm, there’s a “calm eye”—a place where focus can be found. To create this calm space, students can use techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, or a dedicated quiet space. Rather than forcing the storm to stop, these techniques help students center themselves within it, finding focus even amid the chaos. This is about creating pockets of calm where they can refocus, even as the storm continues to rage around them.
Private School in Atlanta Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Atlanta, GA — With 52% of parents now seeking a more personalized and flexible education for their children, many are looking for options that cater to their individual learning needs. Recognizing this growing demand, Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, offers rolling admissions, enabling students to enroll at any time throughout the year. Unlike traditional schools with set application deadlines, Brightmont Academy provides families with the flexibility to start when they are ready. “Rolling admissions is the process where a school accepts applications and enrolls students continuously throughout the year, rather than having a set application deadline,” explains Robyn Brunson, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy’s Atlanta location. This flexible approach ensures that students do not have to wait months to begin their education. “Rolling admissions gives parents the flexibility to enroll their child at Brightmont at any time,” Brunson continues. “Since we offer rolling admissions, enrollment decisions are made quickly, so parents don’t have to wait months for their child to start school. Once the enrollment process is complete, a student can begin classes right away. This allows families to start as soon as they’re ready.” Enrolling mid-semester can also be beneficial for students who need a personalized approach to learning. Brightmont Academy’s one-to-one instruction model allows students to progress at their own pace and receive tailored support from experienced educators. “Starting mid-semester can actually be a great opportunity for your child because we can meet them where they are right now and adjust the pace of our classes to fit their needs,” says Brunson. “Additionally, I will work closely with you to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible, from offering flexible schedules to scheduling parent check-ins to discuss your child's progression.” Whether transitioning from a traditional school setting, seeking a fresh start, or needing a customized academic plan, Brightmont Academy is ready to support students at any point in the year. Brightmont Academy is located at 1161 Concord Rd SE Suite 100 in Atlanta and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, between 10:00 AM and 3:30 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
When You Need a Tutor: Competence Is Key
Private School in Naperville Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Naperville, IL — Socialization is essential for student growth, fostering communication, empathy, and teamwork. Engaging with peers broadens perspectives, strengthens emotional intelligence, and builds real-world skills. Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, values both academic success and social development. At the Naperville campus, students form meaningful connections while excelling academically. Brightmont Naperville understands that a strong sense of community enhances student success. “At Brightmont, building a strong school community and fostering meaningful relationships are at the heart of what we do,” said Lindsay Morales, Campus Director of Brightmont Naperville. “While our one-to-one model supports students academically and improves school engagement, we recognize the importance of socialization and peer connections.” To cultivate a sense of belonging, Brightmont Naperville offers a variety of social opportunities. “We offer weekly clubs, spirit weeks, holiday events, and family nights, as well as school challenges and collaborative activities during Homework Studio time,” Morales explained. “Lunchtime and the brief time between classes on campus are also lively and social periods where students naturally interact. These opportunities not only encourage friendships among same-age peers but also allow for meaningful interactions across age groups, with older students often stepping into mentorship roles. Our goal is to provide structured, supportive social environments where students can build relationships, develop confidence, and feel a sense of belonging.” Morales also encourages families to consider their child’s unique needs when evaluating social opportunities. “I encourage families to think about their priorities in the current moment. If Brightmont supports your child’s academic needs and addresses challenges like anxiety, is it essential for them to be exposed to large groups of peers? Would structured, optional social activities—where your child can engage comfortably—be more beneficial? It’s about finding the right balance to help your child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.” Brightmont Academy is located at 445 Jackson Ave. in Naperville and is currently accepting enrollments. Families and professionals are invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Brightmont Academy is an accredited private school that provides one-to-one instruction. One experienced teacher works with one student throughout every learning session. Customized full-time programs and individual courses are offered for grades 1-12. Students can also receive individualized tutoring for all 1-12 subjects, study skills, and test prep. Brightmont Academy has served thousands of students since 1999 and has 20 campuses in Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Washington. For more information call 1-888-521-0887 or visit: www.brightmontacademy.com . Watch our video: Brightmont Academy - The One-to-One Flexible school - 1st through 12th
Private School in Castle Pines Specializing in One-to-One Instruction for 1st-12th Grade Students Castle Pines, CO — One-to-one education is proving to be a game-changer for student success, with 75% of students reporting increased motivation in personalized learning environments compared to just 30% in traditional classrooms. In response to the growing demand for individualized instruction, Brightmont Academy, a nationally accredited private school specializing in one-to-one instruction, is expanding its Castle Pines campus with a 7,000-square-foot addition designed to enhance learning opportunities for students of all ages. Matthew Sanders, Campus Director of Brightmont Academy Castle Pines, shared the excitement of this expansion: “We are happy to announce a 7,000 sq/ft expansion to our school! This expansion will include designated electives and science lab areas. We will also have an expanded lunchroom and 12 additional classrooms.” The expansion comes as the campus experiences significant enrollment growth, fueled by word of mouth and strong community engagement. “Word of mouth and community outreach about our positive culture and superstar teachers have led to a tremendous amount of growth. We are excited that our student population is increasing to include more grade levels and different students from all over Colorado,” Sanders added. With the addition of an elementary school program, Brightmont has implemented a mentorship initiative that pairs 6th to 12th-grade students with younger learners to build a strong, inclusive environment. “With the addition of our elementary school program, we knew we had to create a community that cherished all ages. To address this, we created a mentor program for our 6th to 12th-grade students. These mentors are tasked with joining the school community together. Our mentors set up social opportunities for our younger students to interact with the older students. This includes board games, video game tournaments, art sessions, and many other activities,” Sanders explained. The school’s one-to-one instructional model continues to meet the needs of students seeking an individualized approach to education, and the Castle Pines campus is excited to welcome more learners into its growing community. Brightmont Academy is located at 858 W. Happy Canyon Rd. Ste. 170 in Castle Pines 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
For parents seeking an educational environment where their children can thrive, especially when traditional public schools may not meet their unique needs, Brightmont Academy offers a compelling alternative. Specializing in one-to-one instruction, Brightmont tailors its educational approach to each student's individual learning style, ensuring personalized attention and support.
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
Homeschooling: From Going It Alone to Getting the Support You Need
