Why don't high schools teach job skills?

I feel like high school prepared me for college but not so much for the workforce. Why don't schools focus more on teaching practical job skills that we can use right after graduation?

The curriculum in many high schools often focuses on academic subjects with the aim of preparing students for further education. This is in part because students are expected to access specialized job skills training later in their educational journey, such as during college, vocational training, or on-the-job training.

It's also important to remember that some high schools do offer career and technical education (CTE) programs that are designed specifically to equip students with practical job skills. However, the coverage and nature of these programs can vary significantly from one school or region to another, and unfortunately, they may not be accessible to all students.

Moreover, high schools also dedicate their resources towards teaching transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills. These skills are not job-specific but are still valued highly in many workplaces.

Certainly, it's an ongoing discussion how best to help students navigate the path from school to work. Some argue for a shift towards incorporating more real-world skills training in high school; others emphasize the importance of a broad education that empowers students to follow multiple potential paths. It's a complex issue with no one-size-fits-all solution.