1 in 4 Americans believe the Sun orbits the earth. It appears the problem is not school standards but getting some to go to school in the first place. Here in NY a degree is required to be able to start teaching, followed by a Masters degree in a short time after starting teaching. The problem is when some states require no qualification to be able to teach school children.
https://time.com/780...n-orbits-earth/
I criticized your post on education but I want to echo this 100%. If you're interested in astronomy, do not feel like you need to join a club. Or post here even. Clubs and cloudynights are tools to better engage and enjoy amateur astronomy but one can have a fulfilling amateur astronomy "career" without ever speaking to another amateur. I was six years deep in the hobby before I met someone else like me. (Thanks, library).
And, yeah, when you work, this can be a hard hobby. Don't fret about missing a clear night. Get out when you can, where you can. The universe will be there when you have the time.
Don, I saw your post on CA science HS requirements. If true, and I have no reason to doubt you, I understand your frustration and annoyance. That is...bad. But not common across the country. I hope you and other science favorable Californians can do something to affect that. Also, I'd point out, the folks making those decisions are, mostly, older than 40. Much in some cases. So, again, not the kids.