10 School Lessons Your Kids Are Missing Out On – And Why They Need to Come Back NOW!

As we look to the future of education in Lawrence County, we wanted to know what school lessons the community thinks should make a comeback. We reached out to local residents and asked, "What school lessons from the past do you think should be revived?" The responses were overwhelming, and we’ve rounded up the top 10 lessons that Lawrence County feels should be brought back in 2025.

10. Typing & Keyboarding Skills

We kicked things off with typing and keyboarding skills, which didn’t get as much attention as some other topics but still received its share of comments. Many noted that in today’s digital age, knowing how to type efficiently is a key skill for students, especially as more of our daily tasks and communication shift to the online world.

“Typing should be taught early! It’s such a valuable skill, especially with everything being digital now,” shared one commenter.

9. Time Management

The importance of time management was another topic that many of you brought up. Several people pointed out that managing time effectively is something students are missing, and that it’s a crucial skill for both school and life after graduation.

"Teaching students how to organize their time and prioritize tasks would set them up for success in life," one response said.

8. Civic Education & History

Civics and history education was a popular choice, with many calling for a stronger emphasis on local and national history as well as how government functions. This is something residents feel strongly about, especially in a small, tight-knit community like ours.

“Kids should know how our local government works and learn about the history of our state and country,” one person commented.

7. Basic Social Skills & Communication

When it comes to communication, many of you felt that students today could benefit from learning how to interact with others effectively. Whether it’s resolving conflicts, being good listeners, or simply knowing how to have a respectful conversation, these social skills are critical for both personal and professional growth.

“It’s all about respect and communication. Students need to learn these basic social skills,” one comment shared.

6. Writing Checks & Banking Skills

Despite the digital age, many of you emphasized the importance of learning basic financial skills like writing checks and managing a bank account. This skill may seem outdated for some, but for many in Lawrence County, these are still everyday tasks that need to be understood.

"I still write checks! Basic banking skills should be taught. It’s essential for everyone," said one local resident.

5. Real Math Skills

Real math skills, without the reliance on calculators, was one of the top responses. Many of you agreed that students need to develop strong mental math abilities and practical skills like budgeting, percentages, and solving equations without technological help.

“Math without a calculator is necessary! Students need to be able to do basic calculations in their head,” shared a local parent.

4. Spelling Tests & Weekly Vocabulary

While some thought spelling tests were a thing of the past, many still saw their value. You pointed out that spelling and vocabulary lessons go beyond memorization—they help build strong language skills that students need in both their academic and professional lives.

“Spelling tests may seem old-fashioned, but they helped me with my writing and communication skills,” one comment shared.

3. Manners & Respect

Manners and respect for others came up again and again. In a community where family ties and personal relationships are central, many of you emphasized that good manners should be taught in schools, especially showing respect for elders and authority figures.

“Respect for others, saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you,’ is something that’s not taught enough these days,” said one local.

2. Home Economics

Home economics, which used to teach students how to cook, sew, and manage a household, is something many of you feel should be revived. This skillset, while once common, has become less emphasized, but it was clear from your responses that you see its importance for building self-sufficiency.

“Cooking, sewing, and other life skills should definitely come back. These are things that everyone should know,” one local commented.

1. Cursive Writing

At the top of the list was cursive writing. Many of you expressed that this skill is not only important for personal communication but also plays a role in brain development and fine motor skills. Cursive is still a valuable skill in Lawrence County, where handwritten notes and signatures are common.

"Cursive should never be forgotten! It’s such an important skill, especially for personal touch in writing," one person wrote.

These 10 lessons were the most mentioned by Lawrence County residents. From cursive writing to home economics, it’s clear that many of you feel these skills are still relevant and valuable today. We hope this list inspires conversation and thought as we look at ways to better equip future generations for success.

What do you think? Are there any other lessons you’d like to see make a comeback? Share your thoughts with us!