THE DEN

Welcome to The Den, Manhattan Park District’s before and after school program! The Den is a positive and exciting environment for your children to spend time with friends, work on homework, learn new games and activities, make art and science projects, and play! The Den’s curriculum is rooted in engaging and encouraging growth through positive social interaction, physical movement and activity, and learning through play.
The Den is open to all K-5th grade students in District 114 and begins at 6:30 am, ending at 6 pm. The program takes place at Wilson Creek Elementary School, with Anna McDonald students bused between the schools. Fees include snacks and drinks, and flexible installment billing options are available.

Fees for the 2019-2020 school year include a $25 enrollment fee.

Make a Den Payment

To enroll for The Den, please complete the enrollment forms and return to the Hansen Community Center.

Early Release Days

Open to all students! School is out but The Den is open! Full day programs with before and after care options.More
Holiday Camps

Full-day holiday camps for K-5th grade students at Central Park and the Hansen Community Center during fall, winter and spring breaks. Before and after care available.More

Photos Gallery

Aveda

Aveda has worked with the Manhattan Park District for 13 years in the before and after school program, and also works at Nelson Ridge School caring for students at lunch and recess. Aveda is happily married with three children and two wonderful granddaughters.
Sarah Crost

Sarah is returning to The Den and absolutely enjoys being a part of the fun and working with students each afternoon. Sarah is currently attending community college and will pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.
Amanda Pacewic

Although Amanda is a new employee to the Den, she has been volunteering for many years with the Park District at community events and through the Lincoln-Way JROTC program. Throughout high school Amanda participated in the ROTC program and Drill Team. Amanda enjoys working with kids and being a part of the Manhattan Park District.
Kristina Kelpsa

Kristina is new to the Manhattan Park District but is excited to start this new adventure with all of the students. Kristina likes to spend her free time with family and friends traveling. After high school Kristina plans on going to college to pursue her dreams of becoming a speech pathologist.

Payton Juarez

Payton graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in August of 2019 with a degree in Recreation, Sport and Tourism. He has a passion for helping others and being a team player. He enjoys watching hockey and football and spending time with family and friends. Payton is looking forward to growing professionally and is eager to begin his career in the field of recreation.