That is where standardized tests like SAT and ACT provide a better reference for student capability. GPA and honors are "nice", but the context of the school matters. Getting a 4.0 GPA at MIT vs a community college is a very different level of academic rigor and competition. The same applies to high schools. You have no idea of the rigor of the curriculum that generates a high flying GPA.
So true.
Plus I know at my HS ranking was based on all grades, regardless of difficulty. I did not place that close to the top but I took algebra 2, trig, chemistry, mostly hard classes. I know for a fact some of the top students took many home ec, art, low level math courses etc.