Without Algebra?

Can you have a life without Algebra?
I don't think so. I am not an engineer (performed horrifically in all science-based classes), a math teacher, or an economist, but I use Algebra every single day. Let's forget about what our careers are for a moment, and think about the Algebra that you need in your daily life. Good luck without Algebra. I could go on, but I'm not going to. Too many of the tasks that we do in daily life need Algebra that I find it unbelievable for someone to say it's unnecessary.

What is the purpose of going to school?
To learn all of the skills for the career path you plan to follow? Decidedly not. If it was, we would need to force 5 year-olds to choose a career path, and not change until retirement. Students are in elementary and secondary school to learn what they need to know in order to contribute to society. This could be by following a specific career path, but it is not necessarily so. I would be equally dissapointed with the high school graduate who does not know have a basic understanding of Algebra (remember, schools only ask that the students pass, not that they master the material, and for good reason) as I would be with the one who isn't able to write a cohesive paragraph.

3- Why ARE all of these LA students failing Algebra?
What are the expectations of the LA schools? Are they setting the passing bar too high? What are they doing to ensure success for the students? When such a large number of students are failing, it's time to look to the school and come up with some solutions. Now, I know that the LA schools have a lot going against them, but there's always something you can do.