Yes, in all European countries that I'm familiar with students are required to take philosophy in middle school.

There is a long trend in US universities to downsize and even eliminate any subjects that are not easily monetized by corporations. You are right that that makes for some bizarre, short-sighted choices. The Elites don't care much for philosophy because they are lazy thinkers and care about profits.

I understand what you mean about the "little people," but I still am dedicated to putting philosophy in front of people as much as I can. It is up to them what they do with it. I can't make people care, I can only do my part of offering the material.