Since ICOT asked…I’ll submit my thoughts. I have a master’s degree–in science! (actually engineering, but I used to listen to a radio program that included this line).
I think that it would be nice if more schools could offer AP courses, but that isn’t realistic. What is realistic, and important, is to expect all schools offering chol subjects to teach the basic high school classes properly. This means clarifying to students that the chol teachers and subjects are deserving of their time, attention, and best efforts, even if they can’t–and shouldn’t–spend as much time on these subjects as their public school peers.
I do believe that students should know basic historical facts. No, they don’t need to know when Lincoln was elected to Congress, but they should know the facts about his presidency and the Civil War (especially because in some ways this country is still living with its aftereffects). If historical accounts are sometimes subject to falsehood and speculation as feivel argues, that’s all the more reason to teach students the facts, so they’ll recognize when someone is trying to deceive them.
I think the currently required high school classes will give students a basic grounding in math and science as well. As GAW noted, this will make it possible for students who choose to attend college to major in math/engineering/medicine without requiring semesters of remedial work. Also, this will allow students interested in college to get a glimpse of different areas of study, so they can understand which ones they are well-suited for.
Even those who have no intention of attending college can benefit from basic knowledge these classes can offer. Most of us in our daily routines are confronted with various scientific & mathematical claims: “Vaccines cause autism!” or “You can double your money in a year by investing in my fund!” A basic knowledge of math and science gives one the tools to critically evaluate this sort of information.
Leaving the issue of studying literature, it’s essential for students to learn how to read, write, and think clearly and coherently. Others have noted that many posters on message boards don’t write coherently, but what’s alarming is that a sizable minority don’t seem to think clearly or understand what they’re reading.