We have taken a momentous step! As of June 30, 2018, YMCA Academy was incorporated as a charity separate from the YMCA of Greater Toronto. There are many reasons for this! We have been established for more than 15 years, and we believe the time is right to provide YMCA Academy with a higher profile and independent identity. We believe…
High School Program
The YMCA Academy is a Ministry of Education–inspected, alternative school in downtown Toronto. Inspired and supported by the YMCA of Greater Toronto, our personal differentiated approach, specialized programs, and individualized use of assistive technology is ideally suited to students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences. Our school offers a safe and supportive learning environment that includes: Individualized…
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Admissions Process
The Academy admits young people in grades 7-12 who have learning style differences and/or who seek a smaller learning environment, individualized teacher attention, or an alternative learning experience. Admissions applications are accepted year-round. Since the admission procedure is competitive, parents are encouraged to begin the process as early as possible. Step One: Visit and Admissions Application Both student and parent/guardian…
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Who Are Our Students?
The YMCA Academy is ideal for students with exceptionalities including learning disabilities, mild diagnoses on the autism spectrum, attention issues, and anxiety — as well as non-identified students seeking an innovative and supportive learning environment. Our school equips students with the skills and experiences to develop independence and resilience. Support services include: Academic support On-site social/emotional support and counselling Special…
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Academic Opportunities
Our Facilities
Experiential Learning
Beyond the Classroom
Testimonials
We went through numerous organizations and schools and no one could offer anything even close to what the Academy offers. My child blossomed and finally started to achieve success after enrolling in the Academy.
My daughter started in Grade 9 this year, and it is the first time in six years that she loves going to school. Her self-esteem and self-confidence has grown immensely. Her motivation to succeed has skyrocketed.
Latest Academy News
Academy partners with Digital Literacy + Coding pilot!
The YMCA Academy has always leveraged computer technology in the service of student learning. Laptop-based assistive technologies are at the heart of the supports we provide to a wide range of learning styles. Thus, when we had an opportunity to partner with the Brookfield Institute in their “Digital Literacy + Coding” pilot project“, we jumped at the chance. The Academy…
Announcing our Grade 7 & 8 Program
As Head of School at The Academy, I get many opportunities to speak with the parents and guardians of prospective students. Each caregiver has a slightly different story to tell: of their child’s learning challenges, of the supports they might need, and of their previous experience in other schools. In every case, their stories speak of anticipation — their child…