Social studies.  Reading Comprehension. English Literature. P.E. Chemistry. Trigonometry (did I spell that right?). These are all courses I took in high school. As I mentioned previously the best course I took in high school was typing. I can type flawlessly for about 60 words a minute. The other courses? Chemistry? What the heck is a “beaker”?

Okay okay.  These are all good courses – and worth taking. But for my money, I think high school students should all be required to take a course “Life After High School.” It would be a one year curriculum and involve seminars on balancing a check book; shopping; simple first aid; spending money wisely; relationships and respect; job interviews; nutrition; cooking simple meals; raising babies; investing; and so on.  Topics which help a young person acclimate and actually put to good use after high school.  Many kids will go to college.  Many will not.  But learning how to respect a spouse, show your best to a prospective employer, and deal intelligently with a screaming baby will benefit everyone. 

These are not topics that are  in conflict with parents so there should be no pushback.  And it might create a broader universe of students/grads who are more able to assimilate, interact and thrive.