As legislators and common folk debate what subjects or topics should — or should not — be taught in public schools, I can’t help but think of some of the important life skills I learned in one class that I hope are still being taught today.
Don’t get me wrong. That discontinuity and derivative and differentiation stuff from my calculus class really came in handy (note, sarcasm). And when those teachers said we needed to learn how to apply mathematics manually because we wouldn’t always have a calculator in our pocket, they clearly didn’t envision Americans now carrying smart phones with them at all times.
Dissecting those frogs in biology class was certainly fun, and I did learn a few things. I can’t name any right now, but I must have learned something. If nothing else, I vividly remember the smell.
I was a good student with mostly A’s and B’s, but chemistry class was a struggle. Concepts such as stoichiometry, prediction of reaction products, thermodynamics, electrochemistry and chemical kinetics bored me beyond belief. And I can’t say that I have had a need to implement any of those since my classroom days. Some of you have, and I am quite happy for you.
Meanwhile, I wish I would have paid more attention in one class — home economics. Mrs. Bormann and Mrs. Nettleton taught us how to sew a button, iron a shirt and cook a simple and healthy meal. I struggle with many of those basic tasks today, and other related ones, too. Sure, learning how to sew placemats probably wasn’t a great use of time, but, as a good friend often tells me about trying new things, it builds character.
Learning how to tie a necktie would have been helpful to learn, as well. Also, a basic understanding of managing money — and debt. Buying insurance. Filing taxes. Some basic things, too. How to shop at a grocery store. Change a furnace filter. Mow a lawn. Operate a plunger. Kids should learn these things at home, but many don’t.
It seems to me that every high school student should also be required to take a basic car care class. I am amazed how many kids — and adults — don't know how to change a tire, put oil in their car or even fill up the tank with gas.
The list goes on, and the education debate will certainly continue. We shouldn’t stray away from lessons in calculus, biology or chemistry, but learning basic life skills should be required learning, too.
Have a wonderful Wednesday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
