"School systems really need to to prepare kids for the future, not just push academics ".

School systems have become the scapegoat of convenience in this debate as to the deficit of skilled labor on the island. What is taught in the three school system is largely influenced by the respective school boards. If not then they should be, but it requires parents or custodians input before the respective board to make it happen. 

Cost of skilled labor being too high or too low is a determination owned and set by the customer not the individual performing the skilled labor. Simply put! 

Customer doesn't buy for what ever reason, no sale of product or service will be made.

If $$$ is the determining factor as to the availability of skilled labor, then employing common sense would suggest the local market place is the problem. Personal value as is like personal opinion, no two are alike. Tough nuts to crack .