It can work. Very much. I have a young friend who probably did more, both socially and in personal impact, than most kids. He went off to become the prototypical Stanford kid, interested in so much and able to fulfill. (Same for his sister, with different interests, who chose a different college environment.) If I recounted his full experiences, you’d be awed. Another chose NYU for the city opps, as well as the specifics that college offered her. These kids aren’t sheltered, nor crippled.
I do know a Duggar-like family, uber isolated (interesting story, if I get to it.) I saw one kid’s app and the number of engagements, again, exceeded what’s common. (Granted, this was a son.) And, they were an active quality, not simple joining or doing what everyone else is expected to.
Some of growing up is ‘going along for the ride,’ letting everyone else tell you what happens now, then next. Some measure of conformity is good, it makes us functional in society. But just because we have a traditional school system doesn’t make it the only right choice. And just because someone knows some who don’t make the most of the H/S opps, shouldn’t make it suspect.
The idea these H/S kids are somehow denied important experiences seems to hinge on assuming the standard schooling is so very good. Sometimes, yes. Sometimes, no.