Each fall, Northview Elementary fifth graders travel to Hackensack, Minnesota, for a three-day, two-night trip to Deep Portage Learning Center. Through the exploration of woods, water, and wildlife, Deep Portage prepares and inspires learners of all ages to sustain and celebrate our natural world. 

Northview Elementary has been sending roughly 75 students to Deep Portage for the past 10 years beginning in 2014. We are the only school in District 196 that visits Deep Portage.

Learn more about Deep Portage!

The Deep Portage Fundraising Committee is working to support the cost of transportation to and from for the 2025 trip. The cost was roughly $7,800 in 2024. Please support the below events and fundraising efforts!

Ways to donate?

Northview Movie Night - Friday, April 4 at 6 p.m.

• Families are invited to come watch a movie with family and friends. Free will donations accepted. Light concessions will be available. Cash only.

HyVee Shopping Card ($25) - coming soon

• Available at the Carnival on May 2. Good for 12 months.

Northview at Raising Canes Night - coming soon

• What: Deep Portage Learning Center is a residential environmental learning center, fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Thousands of students from more than a hundred schools all over Minnesota visit Deep Portage each year to take part in environmental and conservation education programs. 

• Who: Northview 5th Graders

• Where: Deep Portage Learning Center in Hackensack, MN

• When: Fall of 5th grade year (September 29-October 1, 2025)

• Cost: The estimated total cost for each student is $160. The Deep Portage committee works to keep the cost per student at minimum, fundraising to pay for the buses.  Note: Those who qualify for educational benefits through the district are also eligible for a trip scholarship.

• What the cost includes: Educational programming, learning materials and facilities, Northview staff, transportation, overnight accommodations, and meals.

• How does DPFC help? The DPFC supports the Northview trip by providing year-to-year consistency, accessibility for all students, financial record keeping, and parent leadership to make the event a success.

• Have questions or want to help? Email fifth grade teacher Julie Dahl or principal Melissa Griffin.