The federal government has approved Mississippi’s plan to spend $321 million in stimulus money on elementary, secondary and higher education.

Gov. Haley Barbour said in a news release that Tuesday’s approval was “an important milestone” because it allows the Legislature to move ahead with work on a state budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1. Lawmakers return to the Capitol on May 6 to complete the budget.

The $321 million will be spent on public schools, community colleges and universities. Barbour said the state will be eligible to apply for another $158 million this fall.

The U.S. Department of Education said the state must keep track of information related to the quality of classroom teachers, student improvement, college readiness and other issues to receive the funding.