Hemlock Public Schools is sharing highlights from a newly issued Moody’s Ratings “Issuer Comment” report, which references the district’s Aa3 Issuer Rating (No Outlook) and provides an updated snapshot of key credit metrics.
Moody’s indicates that Aa-rated obligations are judged to be high quality and subject to very low credit risk, placing Hemlock among a select tier of public entities recognized for strong credit quality. (Moody's)
“This is an important marker of financial stewardship and stability,” said Board of Education President Matt Wesener. “Our community expects us to be smart, transparent, and disciplined with public dollars. An Aa3 Issuer Rating reinforces that Hemlock is doing the work the right way—planning carefully, managing responsibly, and investing in students while protecting taxpayers.”
The report summarizes several district indicators, including enrollment, operating revenue, cash, fund balance, and debt trends. Among the key figures included in the report: 2025 enrollment of 1,239, operating revenue of approximately $20.6 million, and an available fund balance of approximately $8.5 million, equal to an available fund balance ratio of 41.1%. The same table reports a net cash ratio of 42.2% in 2025.
Superintendent Don Killingbeck Jr., Ed.D. emphasized that strong credit quality supports long-term planning and helps ensure district investments remain sustainable.
“A Moody’s Aa3 Issuer Rating is a reflection of steady leadership, strong financial practices, and a community that values its schools,” said Killingbeck. “We’re grateful to our residents for the trust they place in us—especially the support behind our 2022 tax-neutral bond initiative. That partnership allows us to improve learning environments for students while maintaining a careful, responsible approach to the district’s long-range financial health.”
The Moody’s report is labeled as an “Issuer Comment” and notes that it does not announce a credit rating action, directing readers to Moody’s official issuer/deal page for the most current rating history.
Hemlock Public Schools will continue to prioritize:
Responsible financial planning and transparency
Long-term facility and instructional investments that support students
Careful management of reserves, cash, and fixed costs