There are “most kids,” sure. But that still leaves droves outside NE applying to Ivies. Their choice to apply, facilitated by the Common App. Why assume the vast bulk of kids with 4.0 or better, rigor, great scores, great activities, etc, just want to stay local? Why do you think they apply to the Ivies? Just to see?
If we can distinguish between those who will end up at less familiar names (Grand Valley) versus those qualified for a highly selective school…then folks really should do the same for NE kids. Plenty of them aren’t qualified for an Ivy and don’t apply.