The YMCA Alternative Suspension program provides support and assistance to students who, for various reasons, are temporarily suspended from school.
The program aims to reduce future suspensions and disciplinary sanctions by offering participants an opportunity to transform their time away from school into a positive and restorative experience, fostering personal growth, autonomy and the development of social skills.
Participant Feedback
"I usually dread getting out of bed in the morning for school, but after my first day, I didn't dread getting out of bed to come to this program."
"I thought this program was meant to punish me for my suspension, but it was actually pretty fun."
"This program made me think about my actions and how I can handle them better in the future."
School Feedback
“This program not only gives students a space to go during their suspension, but the one-on-one approach is incredibly valuable for many of these students”
“At home suspensions are not effective in changing behaviours. This program ensures that students don’t fall behind in their academics, while also helping students identify healthy coping skills and strategies to prevent future suspensions.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Referral Process?
- The school decides to refer the student to the program
- The school contacts the program youth worker to confirm the referral and set the date for the reintegration meeting.
- The school contacts the parents to inform them of the suspension and requests permission to complete the referral.
- The school sends the Essentials document and assigned schoolwork to the program.
- The program youth worker contacts the parents to answer questions and prepare for the student's time in the program.
- Intake meeting on the student's 1st day.
What will the day look like for my child?
AM: Schoolwork and 1-on-1 sessions (with each student)
PM: Group workshops based on reason(s) for referral
End of Day: The program youth worker contacts the school and parents to provide an update and to plan for the reintegration meeting.
Last Day: Preparation for return to school and reintegration meeting with all actors (student, school and parents)
How does the return to school work?
- Reintegration meeting at school, attended by the student, parents, school and youth worker.
- The student is referred to other programs and services in their community.
- 4 to 6 weeks later: The program youth worker conducts follow-up meetings with the student, parents and school.
- 3 months later: The program youth worker conducts a follow-up with the school to evaluate the degree of problematic behaviour exhibited by the student since their time in the program.
- During the summer: The student is invited to participate in various activities
Where is the program located?
The Alternative Suspension space is located in the Employment and Immigrant Services office at 25 Main Street West, Suite 105 in downtown Hamilton.
Where do I park?
Paid parking is available behind the building, as well as paid street parking on Jackson Street West between MacNab Street South and James Street South.
Will my child be allowed to leave the property during lunch?
It is our policy that all students stay on property during the lunch break. Please ensure students bring a packed lunch to the program each day. A microwave and refrigerator are available on-site for students to use.
