Not everyone is ready for college directly after high school, maybe not ever.  We used to shudder at the idea of 'tracking' kids into a lower educational path; now all students are expected to go from high school to college, and many feel trapped.  Hands-on classes would give an option of classes in 'blue-collar' skills which allow them entry into a lucrative trade, making a good life for themselves and their families.  Many of those people will eventually attend college as adults to earn a degree, after they have grown a bit.  

Regarding study of Algebra, it is surprising to hear any thinking adult disparage it as 'worthless'.  Anyone who solves problems in daily life or work uses algebraic principles.  Algebra is the dividing line between 'doing Math' and 'using Math tools for problem-solving'.   For young people, it requires a certain amount of mental maturity.  Some students are not there yet in high school, hence the need for more concrete-learning classes.