WASHINGTON (AP) — Half of the District of Columbia public schools slated to close were recently awarded grants for their creative plans to improve test scores with funds totaling more than $1 million.

The Washington Examiner reports nine of 18 neighborhood schools slated to close were honored in June with “Proving What’s Possible” grants.

In total, the schools received $1.35 million from the school system. They received grant funds to test new programs, extend school days and partner with universities.

At the time, Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson said officials chose the most compelling grant proposals and were eager to track their progress.

D.C. Public Schools spokeswoman Melissa Salmanowitz says the list of proposed closings wasn’t finalized until early November. The school system aims to close under-enrolled schools.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)