In a move that’s sparked heated discussions across social media, Kat Clark, an Australian influencer with a whopping 5.2 million followers on TikTok, has made a bold decision about her daughter’s education—or, more precisely, her lack thereof. Clark has chosen to pull her 12-year-old daughter, Deja, out of traditional school to pursue a career as a full-time influencer.
Clark, a 37-year-old mother of two, believes that the conventional school schedule is incompatible with the burgeoning career opportunities her daughter is beginning to receive. “Deja is starting to get opportunities now, so the typical school hours from 9 AM to 3 PM just don’t work for us anymore. We’ve had to pull her out of school often enough that we think it’s better for her this way,” Clark explained. She emphasized that the demanding schedule of creating content for TikTok is a major factor in their decision, stating, “This is what works for our family.”
Starting next year, Deja will transition to homeschooling, a change that Clark supports wholeheartedly but also cautiously. She assures that if the new arrangement doesn’t suit her daughter or if challenges arise, returning to formal schooling the following year remains an open option. “If Deja wants to be a doctor or a lawyer later on, we will support her dreams. But for now, those aren’t her goals,” Clark said, noting her daughter’s aversion to traditional schooling. “Deja hates school. She’s very smart but doesn’t enjoy it at all. We’re ready to support her, no matter what.”
Clark’s unconventional choice has split public opinion. Critics argue that pulling a child out of school for what they see as an unstable career path is irresponsible. However, fans of the influencer have shown their support, with some expressing that they would also allow their children to leave school if they felt it was the right choice. A high school teacher even commented, “It’s perfectly fine! Why force a child to stay in school if it’s not for them?”
Despite the controversy, Clark remains committed to her decision, enjoying the close working relationship with her daughters. “Honestly, I love working closely with my girls. It’s so much fun—it’s like working with your best friends!”
As the debate continues, Clark’s story highlights a modern dilemma where traditional education paths are weighed against new-age careers that, while potentially lucrative and fulfilling, carry uncertainties.
