Rhode Island gets $4M in funds for after school programs

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — Gov. Dan McKee and the Department of Education announced Tuesday nearly $4 million in funding for after school programs in Rhode Island.

“We are focused on shifting learning in Rhode Island from the traditional 180 school days to 365 days of learning, and we’re making the strategic investments to make it happen,” said McKee.

The governor said the grants are meant to extend learning opportunities and improve outcomes for students.

At the event, the Department of Education named the 21 grant recipients, after previously requesting proposal applications in October. Applicants for the funds were asked to implement enriching activities and academic support for the children.

“Rhode Island schools are partnering with community-based organizations across the Ocean State to ensure students have access to high-quality after school programs and continue to move forward,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green.

The grants run through June of 2024. Registration for the programs will depend on when the district offers them.

The grants were made possible with the state’s American Rescue Plan Act and Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief set-aside funding.