In our Kansas town, they still have Home Ec in middle and high school, open to both boys and girls (I don't think it's required for either.) They have the beginning classes, that do some basic cooking and a sewing project in 8 (or 9) weeks, and also the advance class that lasts a semester. They also teach both shop and construction, the construction class builds a nice-size shed every year. I think they still have Auto Mechanics for both sexes, also...teaches basics like oil change, brake pad replacement, etc. We also have both Band and Orchestra...with great teachers. I'm not sure exactly how our little town (less than 15,000) affords all this...but am thankful it does!!
That's really great!!
I know the high schools have Auto Mechanics and an Electronic something or other because my son took it. He was in the first class for 2 days, and was moved into the second one...not because he had learned the stuff...but has some uncanny natural ability for it. (no clue where it came from!) As far as I know, these classes are open to girls too.
There is nothing in HomeEc anymore. Sad really, because it's a good base for adult living. I really wish they would go back to it, add in some home financial management(budgeting, saving, future planning, major purchase shopping - cars, houses, appliances, furniture), some decorating/maintenance skills like painting, wallpapering, tiling, minor plumbing, etc. Basic practical life skills. A kid can get through life without taking a Drama class and survive, but without learning some basic living skills, adult life can be pretty difficult until they are learned. I don't know how much kids are learning that type of stuff from their parents these days.
