What skills do employers value?

I am currently doing some research for a class I am developing for a local medical center. They want to concentrate on improving skills needed to move into different positions within the hospital.

One of the modules is about employability skills--what basic skills do employers want?? My research shows some of them are:

• Basic reading, writing, and communication skills
• Thinking skills such as problem solving and decision making
• Positive attitude, enthusiasm
• Appropriate grooming and dress

According to one study, many employees fail to get promoted NOT because they are lacking in technical knowledge but because their basic work values are out of kilter with the aforementioned skills.

When I read this, I had one of those D'OH! moments! If the schools are not teaching our citizens the most basic skills, where are they to learn them? Should employers have to take on this responsibility?