If you redefine 'practical level' to include basic statistics, which is almost entirely ignored, I might actually agree with you. Basic statistics is essential

If you redefine 'practical level' to include basic statistics, which is almost entirely ignored, I might actually agree with you. Basic statistics is essential for the eminently practical purpose of not being ripped off and lied to, and is, in fact, much more useful in that respect than trigonometry, which is mainly useful if you're either going into calculus or becoming an engineer. It's also a great way to introduce the mathematical mindset of breaking problems down and figuring out which rules apply, which also has great practical value but must be taught in context if it is to stick.