There are many variables for the kids having top GPA. For some of them, getting a high GPA is a breeze and they have plenty of time for other ECs. For some of them, it’s a real struggle. So, kids should aim for advanced classes at their ability. The kids should have some intuition about this. It should be a balance to make HS life enjoyable. Everyone learns at one’s own pace. That’s the title of a poem that my kid’s 4th grade teacher asked students to write about in her GATE class.