Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical weather at Deep Portage in late September?

  • The weather can range from cold, cool, warm, hot, and rainy, depending on the year.
  • Students should be prepared for all types of weather.
  • Dress in layers! A chilly morning can give way to a beautiful afternoon.
  • Classes are held outside regardless of weather.

What is the policy on student medications?

  • A Rockford Area Schools staff member will be in charge of distributing all medications. Parents must fill out a medication for for all student medications. Students are not allowed to have any medications in their room.

What is the policy on student cell phones?

  • Students are asked to not bring their phones or any electronics.
  • In case of emergency, RMS-CES staff can be reached at any time (and parents can also call the direct line to Deep Portage).

My child has food allergies. How do is this handled at Deep Portage?

  • Deep Portage is a nut free facility and accommodates all food allergies provided on the student health form. Please let RMS-CES staff know about any allergy concerns.
  • Students are provided three hearty meals/day in addition to snacks at night and during transportation. Students are not allowed to have snacks in their rooms.

What are the sleeping arrangements at Deep Portage?

  • Students stay in a room with same gender students. The rooms accommodate from six to ten students with bunk beds. Each room also has a bathroom, a shower, and storage space for belongings.

What if my child is homesick?

  • At Deep Portage the students are very busy. While homesickness does occur, staff is on hand to meet the needs of each individual student.

Can I accompany my child to Deep Portage?

  • If you are interested in being a chaperone, please fill out the interest form when it is emailed to all parents in April.

What if my child does not want to attend Deep Portage?

  • We encourage all students to attend. Deep Portage is an important and exciting event for students at RMS-CES.

When do we leave/return?

  • We will leave RMS-CES at 8:30 on Monday, September 25 and return to RMS-CES at 4:00 on Wednesday, September 27. Parents will need to pick up students on Wednesday afternoon.