Beginning this September, the YMCA of Central East Ontario, in partnership with the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board (HPEDSB), is launching Back on Track by the YMCA, an innovative academic suspension alternative program that keeps students in Grades 7–12 connected to learning while supporting their wellbeing.
Back on Track offers a safe, restorative alternative to traditional suspension. During the 3–5 day out of classroom program, students ages 12–17 receive personalized support to reflect on challenges, build social skills, and develop strategies for future success. Each student’s plan is tailored to address the underlying causes of their suspension, with Youth Support Workers maintaining close communication with families and schools to support timely re-engagement.
“Back on Track is a testament to what can be achieved when charities, educators, and community partners come together for youth,” says David Allen, President and CEO of YMCA of Central East Ontario. “Our partnership with HPEDSB will help students turn setbacks into stepping stones while building confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging.”
“HPEDSB appreciates this key partnership which will ensure students have the specialized support and real-world learning opportunities to make a positive difference for their future,” said Katherine MacIver, Director of Education. “Back on Track fully aligns with our strategic plan priority of Promoting Citizenship, Well-Being and Safe Environments. Through personalized support and close communication, students can reengage quickly and experience lasting academic, social and emotional benefits.”
The program will be hosted at the Belleville YMCA.
Enabled through partnership with the YMCAs of Québec, developers of the Back on Track program model, and supported by catalytic funding from Scotiabank’s ScotiaRISE initiative, Back on Track now operates in over 70 communities across Canada and internationally.
With support from Scotiabank through a $2-million, three-year ScotiaRISE investment, the YMCA is expanding the program scaling to new communities nationwide, including Belleville.Community partners remain essential to ensuring the program’s long-term success and impact on local youth.
To learn more about supporting youth in our community through the Back on Track program, please contact leslie.murray@ceo.ymca.ca
