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Kentucky Schools Cut Ties with Lifetouch Amid Epstein Links

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 18:40 GMT by lex18
      Locales: Kentucky, UNITED STATES

Frankfort, KY - February 17th, 2026 - The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) announced today the immediate suspension of its contract with Lifetouch Photography, the long-standing provider of school portraits and yearbooks for schools across the Commonwealth. The decision comes amidst growing public concern and media scrutiny regarding historical financial connections between Lifetouch and the late convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein.

The KDE released a statement confirming the suspension, stating the department is undertaking a comprehensive review of Lifetouch's business operations and ethical practices. "The KDE is committed to ensuring that all of our vendors meet the highest ethical standards," the statement read. "In light of recent information and speculation regarding Lifetouch Photography's historical connections to Jeffrey Epstein, we have suspended their contract with the KDE, effective immediately."

While specific details of the connections are still emerging, reports indicate that Lifetouch's parent company, Shutterfly Inc., had financial dealings with Epstein through investments and other business arrangements dating back to the early 2000s. These connections were brought to light recently by investigative journalists and circulated widely on social media, prompting calls for a re-evaluation of the KDE's relationship with the photography company. Several parent-teacher organizations in Kentucky began circulating petitions demanding answers and action from the KDE last week.

The suspension impacts all Kentucky schools that rely on Lifetouch for student portraits, yearbook production, and associated photographic services. For many schools, Lifetouch has been a trusted partner for decades, managing everything from individual student pictures to large-scale yearbook projects. This disruption could create significant logistical challenges for schools, especially with yearbook deadlines fast approaching.

"We're scrambling a bit," admitted Principal Sarah Miller of Northwood Elementary in Lexington. "Yearbooks are a huge part of the school experience, and we're in the middle of collecting photos and designing the layout. Finding a replacement on this short notice will be difficult and potentially costly." Other school officials echoed these concerns, highlighting the potential for delays and increased expenses.

The KDE has not specified the duration of the suspension or the conditions under which the contract might be reinstated. A spokesperson indicated that the review process will be thorough and transparent, and the department will consult with legal counsel to ensure all actions are in compliance with state regulations. The scope of the review is expected to include an examination of Lifetouch's vetting process for investors and business partners, as well as an assessment of any potential risks associated with the company's past affiliations.

Shutterfly Inc. (Lifetouch's parent company) has yet to issue a formal statement addressing the allegations or the KDE's decision. Attempts by LEX 18 News and other media outlets to reach Lifetouch representatives have been unsuccessful. The lack of communication from the company is further fueling public concern and demands for accountability.

The incident raises broader questions about the responsibilities of public entities to conduct due diligence on their vendors and ensure they align with ethical standards. The Kentucky School Boards Association (KSBA) has announced it will host a webinar next week to discuss best practices for vendor selection and risk management. "This situation serves as a critical reminder that schools need to be vigilant in scrutinizing their partnerships and ensuring that they are not inadvertently supporting organizations with questionable backgrounds," said KSBA President, Dr. Emily Carter.

Legal experts suggest that the KDE is on solid ground in suspending the contract, given the seriousness of the allegations and the potential reputational damage to the education system. However, Lifetouch could potentially challenge the suspension through legal channels, arguing that the KDE is acting unfairly or without sufficient evidence. The outcome of the KDE's review and any subsequent legal proceedings will likely set a precedent for how other states and school districts address similar situations involving companies with questionable ties.

Parents and school officials are urged to monitor the KDE's website for updates on the situation and potential alternative solutions for school portraits and yearbook services. The disruption serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly innocuous contracts can have far-reaching implications when ethical concerns arise.