Back on Track by YMCA is an out-of-school intervention program.
The program fosters bonds of trust and establishes a support network for students in grades 7-12 who have been suspended from school or are at risk of suspension due to problematic behaviour, while also promoting a consistent and strong academic focus.
It aims to reduce future suspensions and disciplinary sanctions by offering participants an opportunity to transform their time away from school into a positive experience that fosters personal growth, social skill development, and autonomy.
Students may be referred for any of the following concerns:
- Absenteeism/lack of participation in classes
- Apathy and lack of motivation
- Issues related to substance misuse
- Disruptive and impulsive behaviour
- Physical, verbal or psychological violence
- Theft or vandalism
- Academic struggles or needing an adult to guide them with time management and motivation
- Needing additional support to help with mental health needs
To learn more about the program, please contact us at one of the emails below.
NW Youth Worker
Jessica Leigh
403-651-6434
jessica.leigh@ymcacalgary.org
NE Youth Worker
Tessa O’Byrne
403-463-2448
tessa.obyrne@ymcacalgary.org
South Youth Worker
Scott Caithcart
403-899-4125
scott.caithcart@ymcacalgary.org
Youth Engagement Manager
Cliff Turtle
403-968-9622
clifford.turtle@ymcacalgary.org
Program Details
- Junior High or High Schools administer student referrals to the program
- Participating youth must undergo an individual assessment. A youth worker will develop a personalized profile of participating individuals
- Morning sessions focus on academic achievement, and afternoon sessions on thematic workshops to reduce identified risk factors
- Youth may also participate in recreational activities
- Intervention sessions last an average of five days
- After the program is complete, students reintegrate back into the school/communit,y and the youth worker will follow up to determine the impact of the ASP on the student
- Youth workers provide regular communication with parents during the ASP
Program Outcomes
- Self-awareness of problematic behaviour
- Increased self-esteem and respect
- Expanded network of social support
- Reduced associations with problematic peers
- Decreased aggressive, impulsive, disruptive, and antisocial behaviour
- Positive academic aspirations and motivations
- Increased school achievement and graduation rate
The Back on Track by YMCA program wouldn't be possible without the generous support of our partners:
- Scotiabank
- The United Way of Calgary & Area