Based on the high school kids I see some basic 'trade school' classes should be taught in grades 8 thru 12.
Secondly high school graduates should be given several aptitude tests to show what areas their talents lie in. Even if you still go to college just having a trade to fall back on is a good thing....
This Boston school,over 100years old,is doing VERY well-——and the young people find work when they graduate,
http://www.bfit.edu/academics/programs
.