The conversation here reminds me of this other recent thread: http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/t/why-do-we-allow-college-admissions-offices-to-shape-and-pass-judgment-on-our-childrens-character/
Imo this isn’t the schools’ problem, this is a student/parent expectation problem.
High application numbers is a good thing for schools. It brings in revenue. There is zero incentive for them to do anything differently. This model has been working for some school for 150 years.
I had also high stats kid who forwent engaging in the rat race for the super elites.