Creating Value in Nonessential Skills in Public Schools

  This will come as no surprise but over the next decade, I suspect that we will see a rise in the amount of backlash from the community against federal over-regulations in education. The Common Core is not a bad idea but the implementation has been poorly executed. In my definition of nonessential, I am using the term to blanket all the classes that do not receive standardized testing, despite the fact that each state incorporates a framework for these classes. Nonessential classes are Art, Gym, Health, Music, Home Economics, and in many cases, Foreign Languages.
  Most public schools do not teach foreign languages until 6th or 7th grade to students who have high grades in English. As if this is some determination that the student has mastered their language and can move onto another. Throughout most of the world, this is not the case. As it it deemed important for students to begin learning a second language at a much younger age due to cultural exchange value. Cultural exchange value? What is that? What I mean by this terminology is that the local culture finds value in a second language because it is present in their community. This is why foreign languages fit in this context.
  I have already discussed the value of nonessential skills being taught to students but there is another argument to this proposition that I just touched upon above, cultural exchange value. The capability of a thriving community is dependent upon the education of their children. With well-developed, cultured, intelligent minds the community can expand or maintain by being able to bring in and create new business and services as needed by the community or the ability to adapt to new ideologies and technology with demand and competition outside the community. Makes sense, right?
  Think about a recent job interview or meeting with people you did not know. You have to establish a connection, right? What topic is it going to be? We know the three taboo things to discuss when meeting new people are religion, politics, and sex. Just don't. What are you going to talk about? How much you love cooking? The latest exhibit at a museum? The most recent Wynton Marsalis release? The fact that you hit a personal goal at the last 5K? You do know that these seemingly simple topics can make that connection and win over your next major account! Why are we not allowing this to be taught in schools anymore? Here is a simple list of some of the benefits of teaching nonessential skills.

• Knowing basic car maintenance can save you time, money, and energy. 
• A community that understands basic economics and personal finance creates growth.
• Knowledge of cooking and gardening creates a better palate which may translate into healthier restaurants.
• Who doesn't like a community full of beautiful music and art to look at, reflect, and reduce anxieties?
• A healthy community is a productive community and does not tax the health system. 
• How about more planning time for teachers so that they can call parents, attend meetings, give back to the community, and work on renewing their license? 

  Sounds good, doesn't it? A strong education background in nonessential subjects reduces dependence on outside resources and cultivates resources within the community.