Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'AAA' enhanced rating and 'A+' Standard&Poor's underlying rating (SPUR), and stable outlook, to Temple Independent School District, Texas' series 2005 unlimited-tax GO refunding bonds. The enhanced rating reflects the Texas Permanent School Fund guarantee. The SPUR reflects the district's: Stable regional service and trade economy; Sound financial position despite declining student enrollment; and Moderate overall debt burden, coupled with modest future debt plans. Offsetting factors include the district's: Operating pressures related to the Texas school finance system, and Below-average wealth and income levels. The district's GO pledge secures the bonds. Temple Independent School District, with a population of about 57,000, is in south-central Texas, about 70 miles north of Austin, Texas
