Back on Track by the YMCA Helps More Than 200 Local Youth Stay Connected to School and Their Future
What happens when a student is suspended from school? For many young people, a suspension can feel like a setback, but thanks to Back on Track by the YMCA, for hundreds of young people across Hamilton and Brantford, a suspension became an opportunity to learn, grow, and move forward.
Back on Track by the YMCA supports youth aged 12 to 17 who are suspended, at risk of suspension, or referred preventatively following behavioural concerns.
Through individualized support, skill-building activities, and family engagement, the program helps youth develop self-confidence, improve decision-making, build healthier relationships, and strengthen their connection to school.
Following 25 years of helping young people thrive, the program—formerly known as Alternative Suspension—was rebranded in 2025 to better reflect its true purpose to help youth overcome challenges, strengthen their skills, and successfully return to their school communities.
During the 2025-2026 school year, the YMCA served more than 200 youth across Hamilton and Brantford, helping students turn difficult moments into opportunities to shine.
Hamilton: Expanding Reach and Strengthening Student Success
Hamilton marked another milestone year for Back on Track.
The program partnered with both the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board and Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board, expanding its reach and opening a second program site. Together, these efforts supported 152 students in Grades 6 through 12 throughout the school year.
49% were not suspended again.
95% reported a better understanding of the reasons for their referral.
Students experienced an 84% improvement in their overall situation at school.
The overall severity of behaviours decreased by 13% following the program
As one Grade 8 student says, "they [the workshops] were fun which means I could store more evidence in my brain for why it helped me.”
Brantford: Meaningful Growth and Positive Outcomes
In Brantford, Back on Track continued to create meaningful change for students and families through a partnership with the Grand Erie District School Board. The program will also start accepting referrals from the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board this September.
By the end of May, 50 students participated in the program, with many developing stronger coping strategies, increased self-confidence, and a greater sense of belonging.
29% were not suspended again.
98% reported a better understanding of the reason for their referral.
Students saw a 50% improvement in their overall situation at school.
The overall severity of behaviours decreased by 16% following the program.
A school principal highlighted the impact of the program on one student:
“The student has demonstrated a significant and encouraging reduction in disruptive and problematic behaviour since attending the program. She is actively applying learned strategies, including appropriately advocating for support from staff and choosing to walk away from challenging social situations.”
Working closely with schools, families, and community partners is crucial. Parents and guardians are actively involved, helping ensure young people return to school with the support they need to thrive.
"This program offers youth an opportunity for a reset rather than punishment. Back on Track helps students come back healthier, stronger, and more aware of themselves and the impact they have on others," says Lily Lumsden VP, Employment, Immigration, and Youth Services.
For every student who walks into the program, Back on Track offers more than support during a difficult moment. It offers the opportunity to reset, reconnect, and realize their potential.
