Pittsburgh-area school cuts ties with Lifetouch over Epstein files fallout

Mount Pleasant Area School District ends partnership with photo company after connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A Pittsburgh-area school district has ended its partnership with photo company Lifetouch after the company came under scrutiny for its connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The Mount Pleasant Area School District says it is canceling all spring photo sessions and will seek a new vendor for the 2026-27 school year.

Why it matters

The decision by the school district highlights the growing concerns and backlash from parents and communities over any perceived connections between companies and individuals involved in high-profile sex abuse cases. Even indirect associations can lead to swift action to terminate partnerships.

The details

The school district's decision stems from former Apollo Global Management CEO Leon Black being named in the Epstein files. Apollo bought Lifetouch's parent company, Shutterfly, in 2019. While Lifetouch was not directly named in the Epstein files and denies any relationship with the convicted sex offender, the school district says it is holding all vendors to the highest standards and expectations.

  • The Mount Pleasant Area School District announced the partnership termination on February 19, 2026.
  • The district says all spring photo sessions have been canceled immediately.
  • The school is seeking a new vendor for the 2026-27 school year.

The players

Mount Pleasant Area School District

A school district in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area that has ended its partnership with photo company Lifetouch.

Lifetouch

A photography company that provides school portraits and yearbook photos. Lifetouch was purchased by Shutterfly, which is owned by Apollo Global Management.

Leon Black

The former CEO of Apollo Global Management, which purchased Lifetouch's parent company Shutterfly in 2019. Black was named in the Epstein files.

Phil DiLucente

An attorney who commented on the situation, stating that any connection to a heinous crime can lead to companies or organizations severing ties.

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What they’re saying

“We cannot suggest correlation equals causation. Everyone wants to jump to conclusions, but I think this has to play out a lot more.”

— Phil DiLucente, Attorney (CBS News)

“If it's name specific or if it's event specific, you can request those types of documents and that can at least get you started on the path that you need to be.”

— Phil DiLucente, Attorney (CBS News)

What’s next

The Mount Pleasant Area School District says it will provide more information to families impacted by the decision to end the partnership with Lifetouch.

The takeaway

This case highlights the heightened scrutiny and sensitivity around any perceived connections between companies and individuals involved in high-profile sex abuse cases. Even indirect associations can lead school districts and other organizations to quickly sever ties in an effort to maintain public trust and uphold the highest standards.