Introduction: Why Sam Kroonenburg Chooses Public Schools
When one of Australia’s richest entrepreneurs opts for public schools over private ones for his children, it makes headlines. Sam Kroonenburg, the tech mogul behind A Cloud Guru, is making a statement about education and upbringing. This decision isn’t just about finances; it’s a deliberate choice to keep his kids grounded and motivated. In this article, we’ll dive into why Kroonenburg believes that public schooling offers the right environment for his children’s development and how his own journey reflects his educational philosophy.
Sam Kroonenburg’s Decision: Public Schools Over Private
1. Prioritising a Grounded Upbringing
Sam Kroonenburg, the founder of the online education company A Cloud Guru, has made the notable decision to enrol his five children in public schools. His goal? To provide them with a grounded childhood. Kroonenburg and his wife, Claire, live in Victoria and have children aged between six and thirteen. Despite exploring some of the state’s best private schools, Kroonenburg felt uncomfortable with the “race for status” that often accompanies them.
Kroonenburg believes that an easy ride can lead to a lack of passion and drive. He wants his children to forge their own paths and develop a strong work ethic. His philosophy is that challenges can build resilience and determination—qualities he values from his own experiences.
2. From Rejected Job Applicant to Tech Titan
Sam Kroonenburg’s story is a testament to his belief in hard work and perseverance. After being rejected from a job at Amazon, Kroonenburg and his brother, Ryan, built A Cloud Guru from scratch. They created the platform in a matter of weeks from Kroonenburg’s bedroom, eventually selling it for $2 billion to Pluralsight.
The journey wasn’t easy. Kroonenburg quit his IT consulting job and moved into a new home with his family, relying heavily on his wife’s support. This period of struggle and dedication is what Kroonenburg believes shaped his character and success.
3. The Value of Struggle in Success
Kroonenburg’s opposition to private schools is rooted in his belief that the best people often emerge from periods of struggle and effort. He feels that private schools might shield his children from the hardships that can foster resilience and a strong work ethic. Kroonenburg’s admiration for those who build something from nothing reflects his own experiences in creating and growing A Cloud Guru.
4. Balancing Family and Business
Kroonenburg’s journey wasn’t a solo endeavour. His wife, Claire, played a crucial role in the business. Despite facing challenges, including the offer of $8 million to sell the company early on, Claire urged him to hold out for a better opportunity. Kroonenburg acknowledges the sacrifices his family made and sees their support as a vital part of his success.
5. The Future: Building on Past Lessons
Since selling A Cloud Guru, Kroonenburg has continued to innovate. His latest venture, Cuttable, an advertising agency, reflects the lessons he learned from his first successful company. Kroonenburg aims to apply the challenges and experiences from his previous venture to make Cuttable even more successful.
Conclusion: Embracing Challenges for Growth
Sam Kroonenburg’s choice to send his children to public schools is a deliberate and thoughtful decision. It reflects his belief in the value of struggle, perseverance, and the importance of a grounded upbringing. As one of Australia’s wealthiest individuals, Kroonenburg’s approach to education highlights a broader philosophy about the role of challenges in achieving success.
