High school kids who are not prepared for college level math classes, or much else, then drop out is a problem.
The social promotion by high school teachers and administrators is a bad idea. Kids should repeat classes in any subject if they do not understand that subject the first time through.
Taking eight years or even longer, while working or doing other service, is not the problem. Much good can be accomplished (if a student is just marking time with no focus in school) by working in the real world for a while.
Some of the most motivated students were / are returning GI’s who have a more mature focus on life.
True, I’m a tutor and this deficiency keeps food on my table. I see all kinds but I enjoy actually getting to teach these kids so that they can excel at a university level.