Kent School District (KSD) has received an upgraded credit rating from S&P Global Ratings, moving from ‘A-’ to ‘A’ with a stable outlook on its general obligation (GO) bonds. This marks a significant milestone in the district’s ongoing work to strengthen financial operations and long-term sustainability.
S&P’s report cites the district’s:
Improved financial management practices.
Positive operating results in the last two audited fiscal years.
Rebuilt fund balances since a period of financial distress in 2018.
Strong financial oversight and budgeting practices, including multi-year forecasting and cost containment.
The rating agency also highlighted KSD’s growing tax base, voter support for levies, and the district’s conservative financial forecasting as key strengths that support long-term fiscal health.
S&P expects KSD to maintain structurally balanced operations in the medium term, supported by established financial policies and oversight.
This upgrade supports the goals of OneKSD — ensuring all students have the resources they need to learn and thrive by managing public funds responsibly and transparently.