Three years, preferably four, of a foreign language are now required for UW-Madison. The good thing- this means using the HS classes to meet college graduation requirements. A lot nicer to get that out of the way. Of course there could be exceptions made but not typically. That language requirement could be more common than you think.
Also. academics are strongly considered while extracurriculars are low priority. This from a link with data released that I saw on the CC UW site recently. Better for a student to spend more time on academics than many activities if time is a factor. Better prepared for college as well.
All of the above said let the gifted/bright kid enjoy taking fun classes as well as the academic ones.