S&P Global Ratings raised its long-term rating and underlying rating (SPUR) to 'A' from 'A-' on Southern Kern Unified School District, Calif.'s general obligation (GO) bonds. The upgrade reflects our view of the district's growing tax base, extremely strong wealth metrics, and recent trend of positive operations, which have resulted in the growth of available reserves to levels we consider very strong. The outlook is stable. Unlimited ad valorem taxes levied on taxable property within the district secure the GO bonds. The board of supervisors of Kern County has the power and obligation to levy these taxes at the district's request for the bonds' repayment. Southern Kern Unified School District is located in Kern County, approximately 65 miles north of
