FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | RELEASE DATE: October 19, 2026 | CONTACT: Dalilah Davaloz (562) 692-0921
(Whittier, Calif.) — Citing positive enrollment trends, strong financial management and a growing property tax base, S&P Global Ratings has affirmed Río Hondo Community College District’s AA- long term general obligation bond rating with a stable outlook. The affirmation underscores the District’s financial stability and its ability to support long-term investments in educational facilities and student opportunities.
The AA- rating is a high investment-grade rating, indicating a very strong capacity to meet financial obligations. For local taxpayers, maintaining this rating can help the District secure favorable borrowing terms, allowing more bond funds to support campus improvements that benefit students and the surrounding community.
“This affirmation reflects our growing enrollment, responsible fiscal management and the continued confidence our community places in Río Hondo College,” said Superintendent/President Dr. Don Moya-Miller. “We remain committed to investing in modern learning environments that expand educational opportunities and support student success.”
In its Oct. 9, 2026, report, S&P Global Rating highlighted several factors supporting the District’s AA- rating, including:
- Positive enrollment trends: Enrollment growth supported by strategic planning and recovery efforts.
- Strong financial management: Experienced leadership and comprehensive financial and capital planning.
- Growing property tax base: Rising assessed property values and a diverse taxpayer base.
- Stable financial outlook: Expectations for balanced operations and sufficient financial resources over the next two years.
- Manageable retirement obligations: Manageable pension obligations and fully funded other postemployment benefit liabilities.
“This affirmation of our AA- credit rating by S&P Global Ratings reflects our commitment to fiscal prudence, responsible financial management and the financial stability of Río Hondo College,” said Board of Trustees President Rosaelva Lomeli.
The rating affirmation comes as the District advances Measure RH, $442 million general obligation bond measure approved by voters in November 2024. The program will fund modern classrooms and laboratories, technology upgrades, campus safety improvements and expanded workforce training facilities.
About Río Hondo Community College District
Río Hondo College offers associate degrees, university transfer pathways, career and workforce training, and two bachelor's degrees in Automotive Technology and Electronic Digital Instrument. With flexible online and on-campus learning opportunities, including classes beginning every eight weeks and accelerated four-week courses, the College provides educational pathways designed to meet the needs of students and the communities it serves. To learn more, visit www.riohondo.edu.
About S&P Global Ratings
S&P Global Ratings is a leading independent credit rating agency that evaluates the creditworthiness of governments, educational institutions, businesses and other organizations. Its AA- rating is the fourth-highest rating on its long-term credit rating scale and indicates a very strong capacity to meet financial commitments. To learn more, visit www.spglobal.com/ratings.