Students Lead No Student Left Behind: Period Policy Action Day 2026

Students Lead “No Student Left Behind: Period Policy Action Day 2026” Urging Support for House Bill 95

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Students, advocates, and nonprofit leaders from across Kentucky will gather at the State Capitol for “No Student Left Behind: Period Policy Action Day 2026,” a student-led press conference organized by the Code Red Kentucky coalition, a statewide network working to end period poverty.

We are calling on lawmakers to support Kentucky House Bill 95, legislation that would require Kentucky public schools serving grades 6 through 12 to provide free menstrual products while ensuring schools receive funding to supply them.

House Bill 95 addresses a growing barrier to student success across the Commonwealth. Research shows that nearly 1 in 4 students struggle to afford menstrual products, while 65% of teens report missing class due to period-related challenges. National polling also shows strong public support, with more than 75% of Americans agreeing schools should provide free period supplies.

Advocates say the issue is ultimately about educational access and dignity.

“No student should have to choose between their education and managing a basic health need,” said Jackie McGranahan, Senior Policy Strategist. “House Bill 95 is a practical, commonsense solution that helps students stay in class, focused on learning, and supported by their schools. When we remove unnecessary barriers, we give every student a fair opportunity to succeed.”

Across Kentucky, access challenges extend beyond schools. Data shows one in three low-wage Kentuckians miss work, school, or important events due to lack of access to menstrual supplies, while 39% of teens report difficulty doing their best schoolwork without reliable access to products.

“Period poverty is real in Kentucky classrooms, and students are telling us clearly what they need,” said Skylar Davis, founder of Period Y’all. “Providing menstrual products in schools ensures dignity, improves attendance, and helps students fully participate in their education. House Bill 95 is about meeting students where they are and making sure no one is left behind.”

About Code Red Kentucky

Code Red Kentucky is a coalition of advocates and nonprofit organizations working collaboratively to end period poverty across the Commonwealth Coalition members include:

• ACLU of Kentucky

• For Ladies’ Sake LLC

• Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates Kentucky

• Kentucky Religious Coalition for Reproductive Care (KRCRC)

• SisterSong

• Kentuckians for the Commonwealth

• Period Y’all

The coalition’s policy priority is ensuring free menstrual products are available in all Kentucky public schools.