There are lots of forces right now, however, that are pulling schools towards more standardization of curriculum and testing. Some of this will likely be for the good as achievement levels rise and we are able to gauge how our children are doing in comparison with other nations. I share your concern about education boiling down to a checklist of skills. Finally, I am not sure I understand your final question about students leaving school. Most education is outside the classroom anyway, as schools only have the children for a few hours each day.
Education is a community affair.
Improving community support of education and learning ultimately helps the schools do a better job.