I learned to sew in Home Ec as well, but in junior high. They don't have home ec in the high school any longer. Nowadays, it's called "family and consumer science". Guess we have to elevate it with big words.
I was never really thrilled with my sewing classes at school because the teacher simply had no idea how to recommend alterations for a girl who had a size D cup. Nothing fit, I was so disappointed. Of course, I know now why - people who don't have large busts never learn how to alter for them.
I have to say though that the projects that the kids are doing are actually pretty encouraging for them. I think making boxer shorts in Home Ec in the 80s is what drove the market to make all these different varieties of boxer shorts.