Crafted to Rebbe’s Principles, Kentucky Education Bill Signed

A landmark bill was signed into law at the Kentucky State Capitol, combining two core elements of the Rebbe’s educational vision: a mandated Moment of Silence in public schools, and Released Time, allowing students a weekly hour away from regular instruction to receive moral education.

The Rebbe’s enduring legacy was honored in a historic moment at the Kentucky State Capitol, where a landmark bill was signed into law combining two core elements of his educational vision: a mandated Moment of Silence in public schools, and Released Time, allowing students a weekly hour away from regular instruction to receive moral education.

The Rebbe consistently emphasized that true education must be anchored in moral values, not just academic achievement. This legislation—spearheaded by the Rebbe’s Shluchim in Kentucky—marks a significant step forward in realizing that vision, ensuring that children across the Commonwealth are guided by ethical foundations rooted in faith and responsibility.

Originally scheduled for signing on Yud Alef Nissan, the Rebbe’s birthday, the event was postponed due to devastating flooding in Central Kentucky. It was ultimately held on the second day of Chol Hamoed Pesach. The bill overcame a gubernatorial veto and was signed into law by Secretary of State Michael Adams.

The signing ceremony brought together a diverse and distinguished group of supporters. Kentucky’s Head Shliach, Rabbi Avrohom Litvin, stood alongside the bill’s legislative champions—Senator Rick Girdler and Representative Dan Fister—as well as other State Representatives. Rabbi Shlomo Litvin, who worked tirelessly on drafting and advancing the bill, attended with his daughters Rivka, Aidel, and Sara, highlighting the multi-generational commitment to Jewish and moral education.

During the ceremony, Rabbi Litvin spoke passionately about the history and potential of the Moment of Silence to profoundly impact Kentucky’s youth. In a meaningful gesture, the first signed copy of the bill was presented to the Shluchim to be delivered to the Ohel, symbolizing the connection between this achievement and the Rebbe’s enduring influence.

The Rebbe strongly advocated for the Moment of Silence as a constitutionally sound method of instilling values in children. Since 1983, he emphasized that moral instruction must be rooted in a recognition of a Higher Power. On Yud Alef Nissan in 1984, the Rebbe said:

“A person has the ability to influence his surroundings, extending eventually to the country and to the whole world, making the world a stable, productive place. This begins with the proper education of the youth, as written: ‘Educate a youth according to his way so that when he grows older he will not depart from it.’ The only way to educate the youth in the ideals of justice and righteousness is not through instilling fear of the police… but by instilling faith in the Creator and Ruler of the world—that there is ‘an Eye that sees and an Ear that hears.’”

Kentucky’s new law is notable not only for what it mandates, but for how it does so. Language crafted by the Shluchim ensures fidelity to the Rebbe’s principles: the law prohibits educators from directing the content of students’ reflection during the Moment of Silence and requires that parents be notified and encouraged to guide their children during this time—two aspects the Rebbe emphasized as crucial.

Equally groundbreaking is the inclusion of Released Time, which allows students to be excused for up to one hour per week for moral instruction. This program, which the Rebbe supported wholeheartedly, has for decades helped countless Jewish children reconnect with their faith and heritage. Its roots trace back to 1940, when the Frierdiker Rebbe established the National Committee for the Furtherance of Jewish Education, led by Rabbi JJ Hecht. Now, for the first time, this initiative will be accessible throughout the entire state of Kentucky, opening new doors for moral and ethical education across the region.

This momentous legislation is more than a policy win—it is a tribute to the Rebbe’s unyielding dedication to values-based education, and a lasting step forward for the future of Kentucky’s students.