School is a place to learn, and Explore Middle School is no different, excelling at teaching a variety of subjects ranging from math to technology. However, when students graduate high school, they feel unprepared for the real world as school never teaches them life skills. According to a survey from K12dive.com, which included 500 students from 2019-2022, 75% of high school students feel unprepared for the real world after graduation, and about 57% of students have not thought or talked to teachers or guidance counselors about their life after High School. Should schools offer more life-helpful classes to help lower the percentage of students who feel unprepared? 

Well, yes, and Polina Sobolev from 7th grade said, explaining, “ Yea, but also in CTE, Culinary arts are only for 7th and 8th grade and not 6th. It would be helpful as they can tie them into existing classes, such as doing taxes in math and learning some easy recipes to cook at home in health class.” 

Well, now the question is, “What classes should be included?” After all, not all life skills can be included as they need to be balanced with the necessary classes. When students graduate, they’re expected to navigate an early adult life without any knowledge. Offering Life-Helpful classes can help them feel more prepared for adult life instead of being stuck and having no clue what to do.

One class could be basic survival skills. We can learn how to cook, mortgage, fix a flat tire, and help with different medical emergencies. This class can be beneficial because when students graduate, they have a better idea of what’s ahead in their lives.

Another class could be how to get a job and develop career skills. We can learn how to write resumes, how to be prepared for job interviews, and how to be organized.

All of these classes have one thing in common, and that is it will help students feel less nervous and more prepared for the future as it can reduce anxiety. 

However, there are counterarguments to adding more classes. One argument could be that it’s taking away from core classes like math and science. Another argument could be that parents should be teaching these skills instead of school. Also, different needs are present for different students.

In the end, should schools add life-helpful classes? They can help students in the real world; however, they can take away time from important subjects.

Published to the Wolfpack Press, April 2, 2025.