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Ashland Today
By the People, for the People
Kentucky Schools Suspend Lifetouch Photography Services
KEDC takes precautionary step amid concerns over company's ties to Jeffrey Epstein
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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The Kentucky Educational Development Corporation (KEDC) has suspended all current and future use of Lifetouch school photography services statewide while it investigates safety concerns. This decision follows reports that some districts reconsidered using the company after social media posts highlighted Lifetouch's ownership by private equity firm Apollo Global Management, whose former CEO had financial ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Why it matters
The suspension highlights growing parental unease over how student data is stored and used, prompting petitions and plans in some communities to use local photographers instead of Lifetouch. The move also raises broader questions about the role of private equity firms in sensitive sectors like education.
The details
KEDC says the suspension is a 'precautionary step' focused on student well-being, while it gathers more information and communicates with member school districts. Lifetouch has pushed back on 'misinformation,' stating student photos are used only for school records and optional family purchases, and are 'protected under federal and state privacy laws.' The company also notes it partners with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
- On February 19, 2026, the Associated Press reported that KEDC had suspended Lifetouch services.
- School picture day has been postponed or canceled in multiple states after online claims linked Lifetouch to Epstein.
The players
Kentucky Educational Development Corporation (KEDC)
A statewide organization that supports numerous school districts across Kentucky through grants and cooperative programs.
Lifetouch
A school photography company whose ownership by private equity firm Apollo Global Management has raised concerns due to the firm's former CEO's ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Apollo Global Management
A private equity firm that previously had its former CEO, Leon Black, with financial ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
