REVIEW OF The YMCA Academy BY parent, Nicola Rudzik

(5) Student Experience

The YMCA Academy has been a profoundly positive experience for our son and our family, from grade 7 to graduation. Truly all schools should be like this. It's a place where learning differences and neuro-divergences are embraced and nurtured to their full potential. The staff and teachers are exceptional. They are genuinely interested and invested in supporting students. And that extends to parents and caregivers as well. I am so grateful for its existence and have no hesitation in recommending anyone to this remarkable school. My nephew also attended before my son and it completely changed his outlook on school. The caring and supportive environment supported his strengths, allowing him to thrive. He met like-minded students who he is still close to today. He was even valedictorian at the graduation.

(5) School Leadership

I always feel supported and heard as a parent, whether concerns are academic or emotional. They provide excellent guidance and support for both parents and students. They embrace all personalities and will address any student issues without judgment and fairly. The communication has been stellar, with regular updates by email and parent socials to foster a community sense between families, staff and students. It is truly remarkable that they have found such caring people in the staff who welcome every student who might otherwise have been pushed aside or harshly labelled in a regular school.

(5) Teaching

The teaching is excellent. The teachers are excited about their subjects and show interest in each student individually. They will find ways to tap into student interests so each student feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and answers openly. The feedback on report cards is detailed and personal, something I have never seen at other schools. Plus, at any time, the staff will readily be available for students or parents to help with any issue related to the subject or any other issue the student is facing in the course. The teachers are truly special people who embrace all the kids completely without preconceptions. They also diligently ensure all student requirements are met and will connect with students and parents when needed. I know my son and my family always feel supported.

(5) Academics

The academics are excellent because they will cater the course to suit students' learning styles to ensure their success. They excite students about learning by providing an open environment to speak and encourage all ideas. They are always on top of each student's progress and will intervene if anything is missing or behind at any time. In this last year of grade 12, I feel so confident the school is managing all aspects to prepare for the next transition. Some may feel worried that college is the only option after graduation if continuing on the education path. I think it's a brilliant step to move into a college program before university and should be the standard for everyone for better success in the future.

(5) Extracurriculars

The extracurriculars offered are abundant and varied. They will add new programs during lunch or after school based on student desires at any time. The clubs are fun and cater to such a diverse set of interests. Sports, arts, technology, the list is endless. My son has participated in many clubs, from after-school cooking to media production.

(5) Students

The size of the school is perfect, allowing for an ideal student-to-teacher ratio. Spirit is strong for the school, with theme days and general school assemblies and outings. Each year, at the start of the school year, there is a 2-day trip to Cedar Glen Outdoor Centre, just outside of the city. Through activities and games, a strong bond and camaraderie forms between students and the staff right at the start of the year. Students have friendships with the staff and teachers and always have someone to talk to about any issue. Spirit days are plenty throughout the year; there is an overall sense of belonging and pride. And even if your child prefers not to be involved in the ways presented, the school provides alternatives to suit their personalities.

(5) School Life

My son loves his school. He may not like getting up in the morning as any teenager, but he's always happy to be going to the Y Academy. He feels safe and welcome there. After extended school holidays, he is excited to go back. He knows it's a safe place to socialize with his friends and talk to teachers. But he also appreciates that he could also take a break in a space when he needs to be alone for a bit. That has been very good for my son, who feels overwhelmed with too much activity or interaction. That little moment of break has been a wonderful tool for him at the school. Knowing he has support and a space to break away makes all the difference.

(5) Community

Parents are welcome to be involved as much as they desire. Whether through helping at extra-curriculars or through parent council meetings. The school would welcome any suggestions from parents as well. I have in the past suggested a field trip outing, which was embraced and implemented that year. The parent socials have been a great opportunity to meet other parents and meet the staff. I always feel connected to the school and, by extension, to parents. We get regular email updates, and at any time, we can view our child's progress through a student portal. The use of technology to keep parents involved and informed is stellar. I can also phone and speak to someone at any time, which is a nice change from the regular school setting.

(5) School Location

The location is perfect; it is in central Toronto and immediately accessible by TTC, with many options right out the door. It also facilitates field trips where groups can easily TTC or even walk to the destinations. It also immerses the students in city life and allows them to see all the different cultures and demographics that make up this city. Plus, it is within a YMCA community with all that has to offer.

(5) Admissions

We went through the admission process long ago, but it was easy and flawless. We had visited the school a couple of times; they were always open to discussions and visits. My son immediately felt good about the school on his first visit. We have never looked back. It has been worth every cent to provide a wonderful school experience for my son and build his confidence. Plus, it provides a friendly atmosphere between staff and students. His self-worth sky-rocketed through their attention.

(5) University placement and counselling

All the necessary guidance has been available, and we have always felt supported. They stay on top of all requirements for graduation and will keep you posted on anything that's lacking or needs attention. They provided ample communication, both online and in person, about the steps after graduation. The application process was so smooth in the transition to post-secondary, with their guidance on timelines and registration steps. All opportunities were clearly communicated, allowing us to review all choices that were available to my son. My son has already been accepted into his college of choice, thanks to their early notice on how to prepare for the next steps. We are looking forward to new experiences but will miss the wonderful environment of the Y Academy. We are so grateful to them.