NEW YORK (S&P Global Ratings) Jan. 13, 2017--S&P Global Ratings raised its underlying rating to 'A+' from 'A' on Bates County R-III School District (Adrian), Mo.'s general obligation (GO) bonds. At the same time, S&P Global Ratings affirmed its 'AA+' long-term rating based on the district's participation in the Missouri Direct Deposit program, in which the state makes direct deposits of portions of monthly state aid payments to a bond trustee. The outlook on all ratings is stable. "The upgrade is due to stronger financial performance in conjunction with an improved Financial Management Assessment score," said S&P Global Ratings credit analyst Hilary Sutton. An unlimited-tax GO pledge secures the GO bonds. The 'A+' rating reflects our view of the district's
