San Marino Unified School District has received a significant financial achievement as Moody’s Ratings (Moody’s) upgraded the District’s issuer credit rating from Aa2 to Aa1 and its general obligation bond rating from Aa1 to Aaa, the highest possible rating.
The upgraded Aa1 issuer rating reflects Moody’s confidence in the District’s overall fiscal strength and sound financial management. The Aaa bond rating, Moody’s highest designation, signifies exceptional credit quality.
According to Moody’s, the District has a strong financial position, healthy reserves, positive enrollment trends, and consistent and growing local revenues. Moody also noted that it expects the District's financial position to remain strong in the years ahead.
“For a K–12 school district funded through California’s Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), earning an Aaa rating is an exceptional achievement,” said Dr. Stephen Choi, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services. “We are proud of this recognition and the strong financial foundation it reflects, which will help support our schools, students, and community for years to come.”
The improved ratings will benefit taxpayers. Higher credit ratings can reduce the interest rates the District pays when issuing bonds for school facilities and infrastructure projects, like Measure M. This can help save taxpayers' money over time.
“This recognition reflects our District’s and Board of Education’s commitment to fiscal stewardship and ongoing focus on long-term financial stability,” said Dr. Linda de la Torre, SMUSD Superintendent. “Strong financial management ensures we can continue providing high-quality educational programs and opportunities that lead our students to success.”