Should High School Students Be Able to Choose Only the Subjects They Want?

The answer to this question is not a yes or no. High school is supposed to prepare students for the real world, but sometimes it feels like students are forced to take classes that they don’t enjoy. Everyone has different interests and talents, so it does not make sense to fit them all in the same mold. That being said, are high school students capable of deciding their future goals and careers? Are they mature enough, and have they been exposed to the necessary materials to help them make these choices? On top of that, shouldn’t students be equipped with the basic knowledge in order to face the real world?

There is a good reason why schools require basic subjects, such as English, math, and science. These classes provide the foundation needed to understand and function in the world. English teaches communication and writing skills that are helpful no matter what career you choose. Problem-solving and logical thinking taught in math are beneficial in handling money and everyday tasks. In science, students learn about their bodies, the environment, and technology, all of which are essential in understanding life around us.

At the same time, for a student who is passionate about art or music, is it necessary to struggle through advanced math? Should a student in love with robotics or building planes sit through pages and pages of Shakespeare literature? These students should have the opportunity to focus on their passions. If they get to choose their subjects, they would be more engaged and motivated to learn and do well. It also helps them discover who they are, explore their strengths, as well as their potential careers in the future. A balance in structure and freedom is the solution. Requiring a set of classes for the purpose of covering basic skills and knowledge, perhaps without delving into advanced levels, should be the foundation of high school curricula. However, after these basics are covered, students should have more autonomy and freedom to study what truly interests them. This ultimately would boost their confidence, improve their performance, and make school a better experience overall.