Several schools in Metro Detroit are pausing or cancelling photography services with Lifetouch after the company was linked to individuals mentioned in the Epstein files.
Districts taking action include Dearborn Public Schools, Redford Union Schools, and Wyandotte Public Schools.
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Lifetouch is one of the largest school and family companies in the country.
Many local districts have partnered with the company for annual school portraits.
Concerns surfaced online after reports noted that Leon Black, a former associate of Epstein, previously served as the CEO of Apollo Global Management.
The management company’s acquisition of Shutterfly came one month after Epstein’s suicide while awaiting trial, according to the company.
Lifetouch has denied allegations relating to Epstein, calling the claims “misinformation.”
Parents have expressed concerns online about whether student data or photos could have been accessed or stored by a company connected to individuals tied to Epstein.
Dearborn Public Schools
Dearborn Public Schools confirmed that it has paused all contracted services with Lifetouch.
A letter was emailed to Dearborn Public School parents explaining the decision.
“While Lifetouch has released public statements asserting that no past or present board members had access to student photos and that they maintain strict adherence to federal and state privacy laws like FERPA, we believe a proactive approach is necessary,” the letter said.
The district assured parents that there has been no data breach of student data and emphasized that privacy and student safety are top priorities.
“Out of an abundance of caution, the district has made the decision to pause all scheduled picture sessions and services with Lifetouch at this time while we conduct a thorough investigation into these concerns,” the letter said.
Redford Union Schools
Redford Union Schools also suspended services with Lifetouch, including canceling a scheduled picture day on Feb. 19.
In a Feb. 17 statement, Judy Nachman, interim superintendent, explained the decision.
“We are writing to inform you that the district has made the decision to immediately suspend all scheduled photography sessions and services with Lifetouch.
This action follows recent reports and social media concerns regarding ties between executive leadership and at Lifetouch’s parent company and individuals under investigation.
While Lifetouch has issued public statements that no past or present board members had access to student photos and that they maintain strict adherence to federal and state privacy laws, we believe a temporary pause is necessary to conduct our own investigation into these concerns.”
Redford Union Schools Interim Superintendent Judy Nachman
Wyandotte Public Schools
On Feb. 13, Wyandotte Public Schools Superintendent James Anderson shared that only one school, Wilson Middle School, was currently under a contract with Lifetouch.
“I want to emphasize that there are many kind, professional photographers we have worked with who are unfortunately impacted by this news. However, when it comes to student safety, I do not believe there is such a thing as being ‘too safe.’
Consequently, the administration at Wilson and I have decided to end our relationship with Lifetouch and will transition to a new provider for the upcoming school year. This will also mean that there will not be spring pictures at Wilson this year.”
Wyandotte Public Schools Superintendent James Anderson
Lifetouch response
Ken Murphy, CEO of Lifetouch, issued a statement surrounding the recent concerns, emphasizing that student images are protected.
“When Lifetouch photographers take your student’s picture, that image is safeguarded for families and schools, only, with no exceptions,” the statement said. “Lifetouch does not – and has never provided – images to any third party.”
Murphy also said that Lifetouch is not named in the files and that student photos were not used in illegal activity.
“Lifetouch is not named in the Epstein files. The documents contain no allegations that Lifetouch itself was involved in, or that student photos were used in, any illicit activities, the statement said.
The investigation remains ongoing.