AN OUR KIDS REPORT:The YMCA Academy vs. Elmwood School

one-to-one comparison:

View The YMCA Academy's full report
VS.
View Elmwood School's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    15 Breadalbane Street, Toronto, Ontario, M4Y 1C2, Canada

    261 Buena Vista Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1M 0V9, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    2003

    1915

    Enrolment

    110

    375

    Grades

    6 to 12

    Preschool to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Girls

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English, French

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
    Balanced
    Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Progressive

    Progressive, International Baccalaureate

    Curriculum pace

    Student-paced
    The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
    Accelerated
    The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).

    Academic culture

    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
    Rigorous
    A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.

    Avg. Class Size

    8 to 12

    15 to 17

    Special needs support

    Learning, Developmental, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    Accelerated curriculum

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Play-based
    Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $27,825

    $15,540 to $29,700

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    Yes

    Yes

    Students on FA

    30%

    24%

    Eligible grades for FA

    9 to 12

    6 to 12

    Median FA package size

    $10,000

    $6,800

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    16

    23

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    70%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Elmwood was founded in 1915 by Theodora Philpot who, in addition to having a great name, was well ahead of her time in the world of education. Like Maria Montessori, Rudolf Steiner, and others, she felt that traditional education wasn’t meeting the needs of students, both academically and personally. She wanted to offer an alternative, one that was student-centric, and that would stimulate a love of learning rather than the rote memorization of facts. She felt that there should be a bit of poetry in the course of daily life, and a bit of joy, too. She began that first year with just four students, all of whom were boys. Despite the obvious differences—it’s now home to nearly 400 students, all of whom are girls—the spirit of the school nevertheless is reflective of Philpot’s vision. The school is one very much centred on possibility, creating opportunities for students to explore their world and to find their place within it. The ideal student is a girl looking for a vibrant, challenging, community-oriented academic environment.
    Read The Our Kids Review of Elmwood School

    Our Take

    Our Take

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    The very heart of private education is providing options for parents looking to support their learner, and YMCA Academy sits at the very heart of that concept. It was founded and developed to support learners with needs that may not be adequately met within other settings. Likewise, it comprises an academic environment in which those students aren’t constantly reminded of their exceptionality. Here, they participate in a community that is supportive, sympathetic, and socially oriented around their personal needs. That, in itself—irrespective of the programs or the curriculum—can be transformational. This isn’t a school for others, making a concession for them. Rather, it is a school for them. That’s huge.

    View full report

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Elmwood was founded in 1915 by Theodora Philpot who, in addition to having a great name, was well ahead of her time in the world of education. Like Maria Montessori, Rudolf Steiner, and others, she felt that traditional education wasn’t meeting the needs of students, both academically and personally. She wanted to offer an alternative, one that was student-centric, and that would stimulate a love of learning rather than the rote memorization of facts. She felt that there should be a bit of poetry in the course of daily life, and a bit of joy, too. She began that first year with just four students, all of whom were boys. Despite the obvious differences—it’s now home to nearly 400 students, all of whom are girls—the spirit of the school nevertheless is reflective of Philpot’s vision. The school is one very much centred on possibility, creating opportunities for students to explore their world and to find their place within it. The ideal student is a girl looking for a vibrant, challenging, community-oriented academic environment. 

    View full report
  • School’s perspective

    Who are you, as a school?

    Who are you, as a school?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    "The YMCA Academy is an alternative middle school and high school serving youth with learning disabilities and learning style differences. The school's small class sizes, individual education plans, life skills counselling, and experiential learning opportunities support students in their pursuit of college preparation and workplace level courses. The recently expanded, state-of-the-art facility is conveniently located in the Central YMCA in downtown Toronto."

    • Helping your teen succeed in life
    • Building skills for academic success
    • Individualized Education Plans
    • Special Education support
    • Social & Emotional support
    • Experiential Learning
    • Small, supportive classes
    • Laptops for every student
    • Co-operative Education
    • A broad range of extracurricular opportunities, including clubs, events, and a cross-Canada exchange

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    "Elmwood is one of the most innovative girls’ schools in North America, offering all three levels of the IB Programme. Acclaimed for its academic excellence, caring atmosphere and strong community spirit, Elmwood is a school where girls are encouraged to stretch themselves, try new things, create and explore. We strike a balance between traditional academic goals and innovative approaches to achieving those goals. We create inquiring lifelong learners, engaged global citizens, and confident, compassionate leaders."

    • Recognized for academic excellence
    • Welcoming, inclusive and diverse community
    • International Baccalaureate World School (PYP, MYP, DP)
    • Round Square and Apple Distinguished school
    • Merit- and need-based scholarships available

    Array

    What do you do differently and uniquely well?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What type of student is a good fit for your school?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What aspect of your school is underappreciated?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What might families find surprising about your school?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    What improvements or changes has your school made recently?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

    Array

    How will your school change in the next 5 years?

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Information not available

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    I have spent a quarter of a century working in independent schools in Ontario, having focused my career on curriculum development and research on learning and the adolescent brain. The following judgment, then, must carry some weight: The Academy is a uniquely impressive school, one that profoundly improves the quality of life of its students, and promises to multiply such improvement as they move on successfully to post-secondary studies or meaningful work placements. Of course, these are large claims, but they are supported by the achievements of our graduates. We have taken approved Ontario Ministry of Education courses and incorporated them into unique programs to meet the needs of our student population. Our goal is to give our students the skills to graduate from The Academy with their Ontario Secondary School Diploma in hand, ready to face the challenges of university, college or vocational endeavors.

     

    Our personal, differentiated approach, specialized programs and individualized use of assistive technology are ideally suited to those students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences.  Our students typically have communication exceptionalities such as: learning disabilities, autism, giftedness and/or medical conditions that affect learning such as ADD and ADHD which have impacted their achievements in school settings. At the Academy we support our students from their first day of school with an Individual Education Plan outlining supports and accommodations specific to their needs.

     

    The  Academy team is made up of experienced teaching professionals with accreditation in their professional fields. They bring varied backgrounds and expertise in special education, IT, counseling, mentorship, curriculum development, guidance and career counseling, cooperative education, and many others.

     

    Given its history in education, and its wide-ranging social programs for youth, the YMCA connection enhances The Academy in many ways. We recognize that our students can benefit from the “wrap-around” services our connection to the YMCA of Greater Toronto makes possible. For example, each of our students has year-round access to all Health, Fitness and Recreation centres with the Central Y being the facility for all school-related fitness education. Co-operative education opportunities are readily at hand as well. Our students experience school-wide overnight leadership and outdoor education sessions at camp Wanakita and/or Camp Cedar Glen, and access to Canada Youth Exchanges through the YMCA Student Youth Exchanges program, amongst a large variety of supports.

     

    Finally, The Academy has been, and will continue to be, a school in which all students know that they are part of a supportive, safe and challenging community, dedicated to enrich their present and their future. We pride ourselves in our students’ success!

    When we talk to the girls about what makes their school special we get as many different answers as we have students. Not far from every girls answer though is family and confident young women. There is something here for each and every girl to love, to get involved in and to find inspiring. 

    Over 100 years ago, Theodora Philpot, an entrepreneurial and visionary woman, founded Elmwood School. Although the subjects we teach and the manner in which we teach have evolved dramatically since 1915, Mrs. Philpot would still recognize the essence of the school she created. Every girl here is known and valued-we see them as individual girls on individual journeys, and we inspire each girl to reach her full potential. That is the School's mission statement, and it is something every member of our community lives every day 

    Our holistic approach to girls' education combines superior academics with outstanding co-curricular activities and healthy lifestyle choices. The powerful and supportive all-girls environment here gives students the freedom to stretch themselves, take risks and learn from their mistakes. We are specialists in how girls learn, so we can tailor things to exactly what works best for them. 

    At the base of everything is our reputation for academic excellence. Elmwood is the only school in Ottawa accredited to deliver all three levels of the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme ranging from preschool right up to the senior grades. This is a fully transferable, world-class education, and the combination of the "gold standard" IB program and a strong Ontario curriculum is the best preparation for university and beyond 

    When girls graduate from Elmwood they are ready to move on to the next phase of their education with confidence. They have become inquiring, lifelong learners with an exceptional education, confident, caring leaders and compassionate, engaged global citizens. 

    I hope you will come visit us soon. We all look forward to sharing our school with you.

    Best regards,

    James Whitehouse, Head of School 

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Progressive

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Progressive


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      International Baccalaureate


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Some private schools offer International Baccalaureate (IB) programming. The "Diploma Programme" is offered to students in the final two years of high school, while the "Primary Years Programme" (ages 3 to 12) and "Middle Years Programme" (ages 11 to 16) serve as preparation for the diploma program.


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      The YMCA Academy offers a full range of compulsory and elective high school courses, imbued with the school's focus on providing accommodations and assistive technologies and offering experiential learning opportunities and wrap-around support.

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      We believe that the best kind of education is one that combines a world-class curriculum, passionate teachers, innovative teaching methods and small class sizes, so every student gets individual attention. Elmwood exceeds the expectations of the provincial curriculum and is more rigorously evaluated than any other school in Ottawa. At Elmwood, we encourage and challenge our students to strive for academic excellence and inspire them to develop a lifelong love of learning, knowing that this strong foundation of knowledge and skills is crucial for success in the 21st century. Our outstanding faculty draws on best practices in girls’ education as they inspire students to be principled, knowledgeable, and reflective learners. From the early years to graduation day, Elmwood students benefit from a program of study that is student-directed, inquiry-based, rigorous, relevant and specifically designed to prepare students for life and work beyond the classroom.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Mathematics


        Approach

        Approach

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Equal Balance

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: math approach type

        Our take: math approach type

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.


        What the school says about their math program

        What the school says about their math program

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        Textbooks and supplementary materials

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Calculator policy

        Calculator policy

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Writing


        Approach

        Approach

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Not applicable

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Equal balance


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Not applicable

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Science


        Approach

        Approach

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Equal Balance


        Our take: science approach type

        Our take: science approach type

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.


        What the school says about their science program

        What the school says about their science program

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Topics covered in science curriculum

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Evolution as consensus theory
        Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
        Evolution is not taught


        Treatment of evolution (value)

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Physics

      • Literature


        Approach

        Approach

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Social Justice

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: literature approach type

        Our take: literature approach type

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        In social justice- inspired programs, literature is not viewed as something to be merely decoded and “appreciated”: rather, it is viewed as a catalyst to social action. Choice of texts tends to favour contemporary works. If a classical text is used, it’s often in the context of social deconstruction: students are asked to critically examine possible prejudices and historical narratives inherent in the work. Like in traditional literature programs, students are often asked to engage in class discussion and critical essay writing, but more time might also be devoted to cooperative group projects and personal reflections. The goal is to teach students to think critically about what they read, while becoming intellectually and physically engaged in the social issues pertaining to their wider community.

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.


        What the school says about their literature program

        What the school says about their literature program

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Domains covered by the literature program

        Topics covered in literature curriculum

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Ancient lit
        English lit
        World (non-Western) lit
        European (continental) lit
        American lit
        Canadian lit

      • Social Studies


        Approach

        Approach

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Not applicable

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Expanding Communities


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Not applicable

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Approach

        Approach

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Equal Balance

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Equal Balance


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Approach

        Approach

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Not applicable

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Communicative


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Not applicable

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available

      • Fine Arts


        Approach

        Approach

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Creative


        Our take: fine arts approach type

        Our take: fine arts approach type

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.


        What the school says about their fine arts program

        What the school says about their fine arts program

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Acting
        Dance
        Drama/Theatre
        Graphic Design
        Music
        Visual Arts

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Heavy integration

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Heavy integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        We use assistive technologies in our classes to support students who learn differently. These include speech to text, text to speech, mind mapping, word prediction software, and so on.

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Information not available


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        THE YMCA ACADEMY

        Information not available

        ELMWOOD SCHOOL

        At Elmwood, we believe that competitive sports help our students develop into determined, well rounded global citizens and teach them the grit and determination that gives them the stamina to see things through. We also believe that every girl can find an activity she can become passionate about. Elmwood is a place where the beginner can dip her toe and try new sports or national competitors can develop further and receive focused academic support. The girls regularly take on new sports and quickly learn the skills needed to not only progress but to excel in their chosen activity. In the middle school, our aim is to give the opportunity to play on a competitive team for whichever sport they choose.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Approach

      Approach

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Play-based


      Our Take

      Our Take

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Not applicable

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Our nurturing environment encourages our youngest students to feel secure and helps them start to build their independence. We balance a rich, academic environment with creative and purposeful play, helping students construct a solid base of knowledge of the world around them. A skilled, dedicated educator who is an expert in early childhood education and inquiry-based learning leads each classroom. In our purpose-built Junior School, the Kindergarten classrooms are designed to meet the needs of our youngest students. Through experiential and imaginative play, Elmwood students engage in early literacy activities and tackle mathematical problems using a variety of strategies, helping them establish a strong foundation for their future studies.

    • CURRICULUM PACE


      Pace

      Pace

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Student-paced

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Accelerated


      Our Take

      Our Take

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).


      What the school says

      What the school says

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Information not available

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Culture

      Culture

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Supportive


      Our Take

      Our Take

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Elmwood offers an enriched programme combining the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The IB promotes an internationally recognized, inquiry-based curriculum, which focuses on skill development and brings together learners and teachers from around the globe. Girls thrive in our nurturing community where they are challenged by highly engaged teachers who are experts in personalizing the learning of each girl. Elmwood graduates exemplify the school motto: Summa Summarum—the highest of the high. They are academically strong, socially adept, confident and resilient young women.


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      "We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

    • DEVELOPMENTAL PRIORITIES


      Primary

      Primary

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Balanced
      Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.


      Secondary

      Secondary

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Emotional
      The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Not applicable
      Not applicable


      What the school says

      What the school says

      THE YMCA ACADEMY

      Information not available

      ELMWOOD SCHOOL

      Elmwood’s curriculum focuses on developing the whole girl – we want students to develop intellectually, emotionally, socially and physically during their years with us. Here they feel free to take risks, stretch themselves, and by doing so learn the true extent of their abilities. Our graduates are inquiring, life-long learners, compassionate, engaged global citizens, and confident, caring leaders.

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    Forms of Support Environments Forms of Support Environments
    ADHD (moderate to severe)
    This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life.
    Learning disabilities
    Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)
    This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.
    Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
    This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
    Dyscalculia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.
    Dysgraphia
    This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
    Language Processing Disorder
    This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
    Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)
    These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.
    Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit
    A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    Developmental
    Autism
    Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).
    Asperger's Syndrome
    On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.
    Down syndrome
    his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
    Intellectual disability
    This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).
    Williams syndrome
    This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    Behavioral and Emotional
    Troubled behaviour / troubled teens
    roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
    Clinical Depression
    This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.
    Clinical anxiety
    This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.
    Suicidal thoughts
    This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
    Drug and alcohol abuse
    This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
    Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
    This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    Physical
    Multiple sclerosis
    This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.
    Cerebral palsy
    his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.
    Muscular dystrophy
    Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
    Spina Bifida
    This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.
    Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)
    This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.
    Blindness
    Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."
    Deafness
    Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).
    Cystic Fibrosis
    Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.
    Multiple physical
    Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Accommodations

    Extra support

    Accommodations

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    We offer a full suite of accommodations for learning style differences, as well as a dedicated counselor providing social/emotional support to individuals and the learning community. We welcome students with a wide variety of learning style differences.

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Students who develop learning difficulties while at Elmwood meet with our Director of Student Success, and she administers an in-house standardized educational assessment, the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT). This helps to give us a better picture so we can apply accommodations in classes right away. We will also make recommendations to parents for adapting at home as well. In general, we approach prospective students with clinically diagnosed learning disabilities on a case-by-case basis.

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Ballet and Classical Ballet
    Yoga
    Yearbook
    Student Council
    Scouting
    Science Club
    School newspaper
    Round Square
    Robotics club
    Radio club
    Poetry/Literature club
    Photography
    Paintball
    Outdoor Education
    Outdoor Club
    Online Magazine
    Musical theatre/Opera
    Math Club
    Jazz Ensemble
    Habitat for Humanity
    Foreign Language Club
    Environmental Club
    Drama Club
    Debate Club
    Dance Club
    Computer Club
    Community Service
    Choir
    Chess Club
    Band
    Audiovisual Club
    Astronomy Club
    Art Club
    Animation


    What the school says

    What the school says

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    9 - 12

    6 - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    30%

    24%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $10,000

    $6,800

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    0%

    70%

    Day entry years

    7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 9 - 12

    Yes: grades Preschool - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    Entrance exams required

    No

    Yes: grades 6 - 12

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    Yes

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    The YMCA Academy is a Ministry of Education–inspected, alternative high school in downtown Toronto. Our personal differentiated approach, specialized programs, and individualized use of assistive technology are ideally suited to students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences. The YMCA Academy’s middle school is an alternative grade 7 & 8 program in downtown Toronto. Developed with a focus on building reading, writing and math skills, our personal differentiated approach, specialized programs, and individualized use of assistive technology are ideally suited to students with mild learning disabilities or learning style differences.

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    At Elmwood, we’re looking for motivated and enthusiastic girls who will contribute positively to the life of the school through their motivation, intellectual curiosity and willingness to try new things.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    THE YMCA ACADEMY

    For students entering our program at grade 9, we do an assessment of English and Mathematics to determine grade level and appropriate placement in our program

    ELMWOOD SCHOOL

    Interested families should fill out our online application form: http://www.elmwood.ca/application-form/

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available

    Alumnus (year)
    Accomplishment

    Catherine Clark (1995)
    Host of CPAC's Sunday Sound Off and Beyond Politics
    Elizabeth Smart (1933)
    Author of 'By Grand Central Station I Sat Down and Wept'
    Mary MacKay-Smith (1966)
    Childrens television writer

Compare:

THE YMCA ACADEMY:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  

ELMWOOD SCHOOL:
THE OUR KIDS REPORT  




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