Lincoln-Way Community High School District 210 is proud to announce that Moody’s Investor Service has officially upgraded the district’s bond rating from A1 to Aa3. This prestigious designation represents the highest credit rating in the district’s history and signals the culmination of a decade-long financial recovery driven by steadfast fiscal management and shared governance.
The official Moody’s report underscores a remarkable upward trajectory since 2016. At that time, the district faced a Ba1 rating, placing it below investment-grade status. Rather than accept that standing, the Board of Education and district administration implemented improved policies and financial practices. By 2019, those efforts resulted in an upgrade to an investment-grade Baa3. In 2022, the Board took further action to restructure $130 million of district bonds, locking in a 1.76% interest rate and reducing the district’s outstanding debt by approximately $22 million. These efforts led to an upgrade to A2 in 2022, another increase to A1 in 2024, now culminating in this Aa3 designation. Moody’s cited the restructuring efforts and flattening of annual debt payments as a key factor in the latest upgrade.
This step-by-step progression illustrates the district’s commitment to rebuilding trust and fiscal stability. By securing this higher rating, Lincoln-Way moves into the high-grade “Aa” category on Moody’s rating scale. Moody’s states that institutions rated in this category are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk. This enhances the district’s ability to borrow at lower interest rates, ultimately protecting taxpayer investments and ensuring more resources remain directed toward student success and critical facility needs.
This achievement is rooted in a philosophy of financial conservativism and strategic long-range planning. District leadership attributes the successful turnaround to the commitment of the administration and multiple Boards of Education.
“This is a milestone for our district,” said Superintendent Dr. Scott Tingley, “and this rating validates the hard work, transparency, and discipline that multiple Boards, administrative teams, and all Lincoln-Way staff have maintained. This upgrade is a clear indicator to our taxpayers that Lincoln-Way is operating with strong financial stewardship.”