Raleigh, N.C. — North Carolina will receive $383.4 million in federal stimulus money for education, U. S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan announced Tuesday.

The money is in addition to any funds the state might win in the national Race to the Top competition.

"North Carolina provided us with basic information on what is working in their classrooms,” Duncan said in a statement. “This data is a critical tool in helping us work together – with students, parents, teachers, administrators, community leaders and elected officials at every level – to improve education for North Carolina’s students.”

North Carolina officials recently reported that stimulus money has been used to provide funding for more than 19,000 education jobs between October and December while supporting programs that drive education reform.

“These critical education dollars will help school systems around the state keep teachers working in the classroom," Gov. Beverly Perdie said in a statement. "They will also help keep students on the path towards graduating from high school ready for college, a career or technical training.”

North Carolina was one of 16 states named finalists for more than $4 billion in Race to the Top grants. The money rewards states using innovative ideas to improve student performance. Winners are expected to be announced in April.