Reality TV stars Khloé and Kourtney Kardashian are facing sharp criticism online following controversial remarks made on a recent episode of Khloé’s podcast Khloé in Wonder Land. The sisters questioned the importance of sending children to traditional schools, calling the system “dated” and sparking a wave of backlash across social media.
During the episode, Kourtney Kardashian bluntly asked, “Why do kids f—ing go to school? Truly, it’s so dated.” She explained that her opinion was partly influenced by her own children, who showed her online videos of people who advocate for alternative education routes like homeschooling and entrepreneurship.
Khloé backed her sister’s stance, revealing, “I’m a homeschool person.” The two went on to suggest that formal education may not be as relevant in today’s digital world, where many individuals are achieving success outside traditional academic pathways.
Internet Backlash
Social media users were quick to react to the sisters’ comments, with many labeling them “out of touch” and “privileged.” One viral post read, “Only someone who can afford private tutors and assistants would say something so ignorant. Must be nice!” Another user tweeted, “I wish they could prioritize education in that family just once.”
Critics pointed out that most families in America don’t have the luxury of hiring full-time tutors or creating custom learning environments at home. For the average household, public school remains the primary pathway to education, social development, and future employment opportunities.
“Public schools are already underfunded and struggling. Now we have influencers telling millions of followers that school isn’t even necessary? That’s dangerous,” said one educator on X (formerly Twitter).
Scott Disick Reportedly Concerned
The backlash didn’t stop at the public. According to a report by The Sun, Kourtney’s ex-partner, Scott Disick, reportedly disagrees with her stance on homeschooling their children. Disick allegedly believes that formal education is essential and worries about the long-term impact of pulling their children from traditional school systems.
This internal conflict adds another layer to the ongoing debate about how much freedom parents should have in determining their children’s education paths, especially when co-parenting is involved.
Debate Over Education Relevance
The Kardashian sisters’ remarks reignited a longstanding debate over the relevance of the traditional education system. Some critics argue that school curricula are outdated and fail to prepare children for the modern workforce. Others defend the system as necessary for developing critical thinking, discipline, and social skills.
It is true that the COVID-19 pandemic opened up new conversations around homeschooling, virtual learning, and alternative education models. However, most education experts still view formal schooling as the backbone of childhood development, particularly in areas with limited access to resources.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, more than 49 million students attend public schools in the United States. The department continues to advocate for improvements in academic standards, teacher training, and student support systems to ensure quality education for all.
Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the critical role schools play in children’s mental and physical health, citing programs that provide meals, counseling, physical activity, and vaccinations.
Kardashian Influence and Responsibility
As members of one of the most-followed families on social media, Khloé and Kourtney Kardashian have massive influence, particularly among young parents. Critics argue that their platform comes with a responsibility to share balanced perspectives, especially on issues as crucial as children’s education.
“They’ve built an empire, no doubt. But to act like school is obsolete because they made it on reality TV is absurd,” said a parent in an Instagram comment that gained over 5,000 likes.
This isn’t the first time the Kardashian family has come under scrutiny for their parenting styles or public statements. But with the state of public education already under national focus, their comments struck a nerve with educators and parents alike.