If school is meant to prepare students for life, why are so many essential skills missing from the curriculum? School is the place where children go to learn, but besides the basic curriculum, they must also learn about personal health, finance, and career skills to be prepared for adulthood and independent living.
Knowledge in sex education, nutrition, and mental health is crucial, as being informed in these areas equips students to make safe choices that protect their well-being. As women, it is critical to be informed about this topic as education is the first step toward empowerment and prevention. Parents can also teach this information; however, a teenager may feel awkward talking to their parents about their sex life or mental health.
Being financially informed is also essential for high schoolers, as most students have jobs that require them to pay taxes. They are also preparing for college, which means they will start their journey of no longer relying on their parents. Learning about stock portfolios, how to file taxes and how to manage money will help them avoid future financial stress and set them up to make strategic financial decisions. Yes, parents have the responsibility to teach their kids financial responsibility; some parents may lack the time or knowledge to do so.
However, knowledge is less valuable if it doesn’t lead to a job. Since most students get their first job in high school, a class on resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and interview practice would prepare them for future success.
While schools do offer electives and academic foundations, there is a lack of focus on establishing a foundation for personal success.
Some students may not even have a parent, but instead a legal guardian who may not prioritize their well-being. School is the one place where students are forced to learn, and it should also be a place where students learn essential life skills. They should not have to learn this information through a negative experience, but in school, where they can gain knowledge from an informed adult who can prevent them from making critical mistakes and set them up to make informed decisions.
