highschool and to an extent middleschool math do spend a lot of time on stuff that doesn't matter to the average person. but it covers some things that matter a lot.

what will the sales tax be on this item at the store?

can I afford the items in my grocery cart?

if I buy a TV on my credit card and pay it off in three months, how much extra am I paying?

if I keep doing what I'm doing, when will I be able to retire?