This is my opinion in education, and it tends to differ than the author one: You don't need to teach science in primary schools to have a science literate population. Teach them to read, only.

Why: Because reading is key. What I learnt on my own reading books in one year was more than what I was taught in all these primary years. They have helped, but even if I didn't take these classes that wouldn't be a roadblock.

How I envision a successful education:

1. Language is priority: Reading, writing and communicating. Dedicate long hours for reading and daily writing. This is better than science or math. I need to be able to read, and also communicate effectively with others (forums, chat...)

2. Math: Math is also important. Dedicate a good amount of hours for a solid math education.

3. Others: It includes science, geography, history... What does the average person need of information to be relatively literate? Give it that amount of information; only. The bare minimum so he can understand things like nuclear radiations, ADN, therapies...

And then? Let people decide. Science is not for everyone. There is a writer, designer, business analyst... They don't need science, but they are in need in the society. Let everyone decide what he wants to be. You allowed him to read and communicate effectively. Don't worry about what will happen next.