PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — The South Dakota Education Department says applications are available for grants to support after-school programs that provide students with academic activities.

The 21st Century Community Learning Center grants are awarded for five years in amounts of $50,000 to $150,000 a year. The grants are funded by the federal government and must go to programs offered outside of regular school hours.

The programs are intended to help students from high-poverty areas and low-performing schools.

Sue Burgard of the state Education Department says programs funded by the grants give students a safe, fun and educational place to go after school.

Grant applications must be submitted to the department by Feb. 28.

Information is available online.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

More From KXRB