The YMCA Academy is an alternative school for students grade 7 through 12 who learn differently.
The school, inspired by the YMCA of Greater Toronto’s mission, vision, and values, is the ideal learning environment for high school students with learning disabilities, attention issues, anxiety, and/or mild diagnoses on the autism spectrum — as well as students without a formally identified exceptionality who are seeking a more supportive school experience.
The Academy provides a wide range of supports designed to maximize student success:
- Personalized implementation of Individual Education Plans
- Small class sizes (averaging 9 students)
- A full-time student life counsellor, providing socio-emotional support
- Embedded assistive technologies, including laptops for all students
- A wide range of locally developed, applied, and college preparation courses
- A YMCA health and fitness centre membership for all students
- Authentic learning opportunities, including a robust co-op program
The Academy difference
“My daughter started in grade 9 this year, and it is the first time in 6 years that she loves going to school. Her self-esteem and self-confidence has grown immensely. For the first time in her school life, she can tell me what she is studying in each class. Previously she was never given any homework or assignments, now she willingly sits and does any work needed, including wanting to study for upcoming tests. Her motivation to succeed has skyrocketed.”
- Parent of a YMCA Academy student
The YMCA Academy is located at 15 Breadalbane Street, 3rd floor, in the Toronto Central Grosvenor St. YMCA Centre (near Yonge and College streets in downtown Toronto).
