Good Afternoon Newport Families,

Newport Independent Schools would like to update our school community on a change for the upcoming school year. During the 2025 Legislative Session, the Kentucky General Assembly passed House Bill 96, which mandates a moment of silence or reflection at the beginning of each school day. The new law, KRS 158.175, requires the following:

• The moment of silence or reflection shall be at least one minute, but not exceed two minutes.

• Students are to remain seated and silent without distracting others. Each student may decide whether to pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity. Whatever activity a student chooses must not interfere with or distract from other students’ choices.

• District and school personnel shall not provide instruction to any student regarding the nature of their chosen reflection.

We encourage parents/guardians to discuss this change with their child so they can be better prepared to use this time effectively and have a positive start to their school day.

We look forward to seeing everyone on August 14th!