Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'A+' long-term rating to Southern Kern Unified School District, Calif.'s series 2016 general obligation (GO) refunding bonds and series 2016B election of 2014 GO bonds. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its 'A+' underlying rating (SPUR) on the district's GO bonds outstanding. The outlook is stable. The ratings reflect our view of the district's: Relatively stable area economy and significant inter-year assessed value (AV) growth, anchored by new alternative energy projects and a strong military-related service presence in the Antelope Valley; Growing average daily attendance (ADA) trend, driven in part by program investments and new management policies related to student retention; and Track record of at least strong financial reserves, despite
