Frequently Asked Questions

Teen FAQs

• How old do I have to be to come to The PORT?

  The PORT is open to students in grades 7-12 for our after school drop-in hours. From time to time, we have middle school-only programs that are open to grades 6-8 and high school-only programs that are open to grades 9-12. Check out our calendar for more information.

• What can I do at The PORT?

  Our recreation area has ping-pong, pool, air hockey, and foosball, as well as a flat-screen tv with a PS2 x and a stereo system with a port for your iPod. If you need to work on homework or a project, you can use our quiet study area.

• Do you have internet?

  The PORT has wi-fi capability, but you will need to bring your own laptop.

  We also have one desktop computer for internet access.

   

• Can I get something to eat at The PORT?

  Absolutely!  Thanks to a partnership with Freeport Community Services, we offer a variety of free snacks.  Drinks may be purchased for $1.

  
   

• Are you open during school vacation?

  We often host special events such as big-screen movies or outings during school vacations or in-service days.  To learn the plan for upcoming school vacations, keep an eye on our calendar.

  
   

• What is The PORT's policy regarding drugs and alcohol?

  If PORT Teen Center staff suspect that a teen is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, every effort will be made to contact parents or emergency contact person(s). Teens who are suspected to be under the influence of illegal substances will not be permitted to leave The PORT Teen Center until safe transportation arrangements have been made with a parent or emergency contact person. Should any teen attempt to leave the Teen Center before such arrangements have been made, PORT staff will contact the Freeport Police Department. As long as teens cooperate with the attempt to arrange safe transportation, police will NOT be contacted.
   

• What if I want to bring my girlfriend/boyfriend to The PORT?

  We welcome all teens at The PORT. We just ask that you be respectful that you are in a community space. Keep all public displays of affection to a minimum.
   

• What is the Teen Advisory Board?

  The Teen Advisory Board is a group of teens who meet weekly to influence the center’s direction. The Teen Advisory Board plans programs for The PORT, spreads the word about our center, and suggests changes. If you are interested in being a part of this group, contact Sarah Davenport.
   

• Does The PORT have a religious affiliation?

  No, as a division of Freeport Recreation & Community Education The PORT is open to all teens in Freeport, Durham, and Pownal. We provide a safe place where teens from all backgrounds are welcome.
   

• More questions about The PORT?

  Check out our Code of Conduct.
   

• Are there rules that teens have to follow while at The PORT?

  Yes, all teens are required to abide by our Code of Conduct while at The PORT or while participating in any PORT programs.

Parent FAQs

• How old does my son or daughter need to be to come to The PORT?

  The PORT is open to students in grades 7-12 for our after school drop-in hours. From time to time, The PORT has middle school-only programs that are open to grades 6-8 and high school-only programs that are open to grades 9-12. Check out our calendar for more information about upcoming programs.

   

• Does The PORT provide adult supervision?

  Yes, all drop-in hours at The PORT are supervised by our staff. Any programs conducted by The PORT will be led and supervised by PORT staff, qualified activity instructors, or approved volunteers.

   

• How can I know my teen is safe while at The PORT?

  Everyone who comes into or out of The PORT is required to sign in and agree to our Code of Conduct. Additionally, the entrance to the center is carefully supervised by staff to ensure participant safety.

   

• How can my teen get to The PORT?

  The PORT is a short walk from Freeport High School, and is easily accessible in all seasons. If your son or daughter is in middle school, a bus is available to ride to the community center every afternoon. In order to ride this bus, a signed release form must be on file with staff at Freeport Middle School. Contact us for more information.

   

• How do you determine program offerings?

  In keeping with our mission to be a youth-driven organization, we rely on input from our Teen Advisory Board to develop new programs. We also welcome support from teachers and other community members who have the resources to help us create enriching, teen-appropriate programs.

   

• Are there rules that teens have to follow while at The PORT?

  We ask all participants to abide by our Code of Conduct.

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  Does The PORT have a religious affiliation?

  No, as a division of Freeport Recreation & Community Education The PORT is open to all teens in Freeport, Durham, and Pownal. We provide a safe place where teens from all backgrounds are welcome.

The PORT Teen Center is a division of Freeport Recreation and Community Education