Moody’s Affirms Gwinnett County Public Schools’ Aaa Bond Rating, Citing Strong Financial Stability

     Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS), Georgia’s largest school district, has once again secured the highest possible bond rating from Moody’s Investors Service. Moody’s has affirmed the district’s Aaa rating on its outstanding general obligation unlimited tax (GOULT) debt, reflecting the district’s exceptional financial health and prudent fiscal management.

     GCPS continues to demonstrate strong financial stewardship, maintaining balanced budgets and growing reserves annually since 2014. The district’s ability to navigate financial challenges is bolstered by gradual enrollment growth, steady increases in state aid, and a thriving local and regional economy that has fueled consistent property tax growth.

 

A Record of Fiscal Responsibility

     Moody’s cited GCPS’ conservative budgeting, strong reserve levels, and commitment to responsible fiscal management as key factors in affirming the Aaa rating in the February 10, 2025, press release. The district has strategically leveraged voter-approved sales tax collections to fund capital improvements, ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

     “Earning Moody’s highest bond rating once again is a testament to our district’s sound financial strategy and long-term planning,” said Walt Martin, Deputy Superintendent of Operational Services. “Our commitment to responsible budgeting and efficient resource management allows us to invest in the future of our students while maintaining the financial stability of GCPS.”

     Superintendent Dr. Calvin J. Watts echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the impact of strong fiscal management to support educational excellence. “Gwinnett County Public Schools has a long-standing commitment to strong fiscal accountability, and we remain dedicated to responsible financial stewardship. By effectively managing our budget year to year, we not only maintain the district’s financial health but also maximize resources that directly benefit our students, staff, and community.”

 

A Stable Fiscal Outlook for the Future

     Moody’s has assigned a stable outlook to the district’s financial future, citing expectations that GCPS will continue to practice prudent budget management and maintain strong reserves. The district’s intention to opt out of HB 581, a statewide measure that could have limited tax base growth, further solidifies its financial outlook.

     As one of the few school districts nationwide to hold the highest bond rating, GCPS remains a leader in fiscal responsibility, ensuring sustainable investment in education for the more than 180,000 students we serve.