Why does it seem like there is such little emphasis and value place on humanities and the arts?

And why is so much made of science, math and athletics? It seems like the things I value (and am good at) are not as much of a priority. These things seem to be pushed to the side, and I don't understand why. It's frustrating that we are learnig about poly atomic ions which I doubt any of us will ever need to know about where as you will need to write and communticate effectively in almost any job you take.