PROVIDENCE – The R.I. Department of Education has awarded nearly $1.9 million in federal grants to 16 expanded-learning programs around the state. The grant funding is part of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, which is designed to support expanded-learning opportunities such as after-school or summer programs in high-poverty communities.

Currently the program supports almost 15,000 students in eight Rhode Island communities. The department has established two priorities for this round of funding: high school programs that focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics, with measurable outcomes related to mathematics achievement, and continuation of high-quality programs that have met specific standards for student growth and for effective practices.

This latest round of funding includes four new recipients:

• Pawtucket School Department, $272,360.

• Woonsocket School Department, $175,000.

• RiverzEdge Arts Project, $171,060.

• Providence School Department, $60,000. •