Interesting question. First, some incoming college students don’t have a firm grasp of reading, writing and arithmetic. Over 50% of students in this state, for example, must take remedial math classes before taking college level math. So I worry about making the basics electives.

At the same time however, I still use all those things I learned taking wood shop and drafting in high school. I have designed and built several decks, remodeled a few houses (including wiring and plumbing), and general contracted a major addition to another home. I can calculate the amount of paint and wallpaper I need, the size and quantity of lumber for deck that will hold a hot tub, and the rise, run and stringer size for a winding staircase. All this I learned in high school.

In addition, I never would have thought of becoming a tool designer without exposure to mechanical drafting in high school. Without this experience, I would have never went to tech college. I would not have been able to support myself by the age of 21; and would not be who I am today.

So, taking all that into account, I want all HS grads to be competent in reading, writing and arithmetic, and still have opportunities to learn all those hands on skills that last a lifetime.