About Us
CTO is a not-for-profit child advocacy organization founded in 2017. We support students from kindergarten through to graduation.
Our Mission
We advocate for children and youth; through early intervention, we support the needs of youth to build a positive perception of themselves.
Our Vision
We imagine a world where young people are seen, heard, and able to thrive in systems that respect and uphold their rights.
Our Approach
We are a team of social workers and youth advocates, guided by a strength-based and trauma-informed lens. Through education, advocacy, and early intervention, we Inspire, Empower, and Propel young people to see themselves through a lens of possibility - to understand their rights, recognize their strengths, and build a positive perception of who they are and what they can become.
What we do
At CTO Child & Youth Educational Services, we provide Educational Consultation and Advocacy Support — our most sought-after service that helps children, youth, and their families navigate the school system with confidence. We advocate for students and families across downtown Toronto and beyond. Our team works closely with students, parents, teachers, and school administrators to make sure every child’s individual needs are recognized and supported.
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Many students in Ontario’s public school system are often misunderstood. Those who are described as “challenging,” “defiant,” “unmotivated,” or “disruptive” are frequently students who are struggling with unmet needs — not students who lack potential. When these students are sent to the office or repeatedly disciplined, they can lose trust, confidence, and valuable learning time.
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That’s where we step in. We help families understand their rights, communicate effectively with schools, and develop solutions that work for their child’s learning, well-being, and future success.​ Our approach is insightful, innovative, and compassionate — finding creative ways to support children and youth in ways that recognize the broader social and emotional factors that affect their education.
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At CTO, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported — both in the classroom and beyond.
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