Outdoor Learning
Rockford Public Schools (RPS) is proud to offer an Outdoor Learning program at Edgerton Trails Elementary for rising 4th grade students in the district. The program includes a commitment to all RPS curriculum components while incorporating project-based learning in an outdoor setting. This unique opportunity is for students that enjoy being outside, are inquisitive and self-directed learners.
The program is taught by a RPS certified staff member.
Characteristics of an outdoor learning student
Inquisitive
Genuine interest and experiences with the outdoors
Can work both independently and collaboratively
Has an intrinsic motivation when it comes to learning, school work and responsibility
Positive attendance record
Positive behaviors
Timeline
April: Application Process Opens
April: Student Interviews
May: Lottery
May: Acceptance Letters
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Outdoor Education?
Outdoor Education is a philosophy of embracing and experiencing the outdoors. The Outdoor Learning program will guide students through the same curriculum as their peers in traditional classrooms while participating in a variety of outdoor, project-based learning opportunities.
Q: Who can apply for the Outdoor Learning program?
The Outdoor Learning program is available to any rising 4th grade student enrolled in Rockford Public Schools. Students will spend 4th and 5th grades in the Outdoor Learning program and return to their geographical middle school for traditional learning in 6th grade.
Q: Where will the program be located?
The Outdoor Learning program will be located at Edgerton Trails, both inside the school and at the Outdoor Learning property behind the school.
Q: What is the application and selection process:
Students must be a current RPS student or RPS resident in the 3rd grade
Interested families must fill out and complete an online application (available March 24)
Classroom teachers will complete a recommendation form
Student interview
Students that meet the criteria will be entered into the lottery
Q: How many students will be admitted?
Twenty-six students will be selected through a lottery system to be in the 2026-2027 4th grade class.
Q: Is there a waitlist?
Yes, there will be a waitlist. If any of the 26 lottery students decline, the next student will be invited to enter the program.
Q: What is the curriculum?
The Outdoor Learning program will guide students through the same curriculum as their peers in traditional classrooms while participating in a variety of project-based, outdoor learning opportunities.
Q: How much time do students spend outside?
This depends on a variety of factors, however, students will spend 50-70% of the school year outside.
Q: Does the district provide transportation to and from the Outdoor Learning program?
There will be limited morning transportation at designated shuttle locations. Students using the morning shuttle will arrive at Edgerton Trails approximately 10 minutes after the start of the school day.
Transportation will not be provided in the afternoon. Parents/guardians will pick their student(s) up at Edgerton Trails at the end of the school day.
The application will be available March 24, 2026 - April 11, 2026
For more information, please contact Shannon Ouellette, Principal at Edgerton Trails Elementary at souellette@rockfordschools.org.
