As the Civics and Citizenship course comes to a close, students have been reflecting on memorable moments and activities from the course. One of the most memorable activities was an election simulation where students formed political parties, wrote platforms, and ran campaigns. Along the way, students learned every part of the electoral process, from identifying their own political beliefs to…
About the Academy
The YMCA Academy is a Ministry of Education–inspected, alternative school in downtown Toronto offering wrap-around special education support.
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Admissions Process
The Academy admits young people in grades 6-12 who have learning style differences and/or who seek a smaller, more supportive learning environment.
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Who Are Our Students?
The Academy is ideal for students with learning disabilities, mild diagnoses on the autism spectrum, attention issues, and anxiety.
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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
Building a Roman style Aqueduct
In Middle School, the students collaborated to build a wetland and replica Roman style aqueduct. One student explained, “With hard work and dedication, we made something remarkable.” The students planned, constructed and adjusted the designs in order to model their cross-curricular learning between science and social studies. Together, we have been investigating the features of wetlands including the biodiversity that…
Exploring Ecosystems through Experiential Learning
It is my privilege to be teaching a grade 12 geography class called Living in a Sustainable World (CGR4E/M) this semester, and we have had a busy month! Here is a recap of what and how we have been learning about Species and Spaces, and exploring the challenges and wonders of ecosystems, conservation, and the impact humans have on the…