@catchastar, it really is just a matter of perspective. The end-product GPA is what is was always going to be. If you want to watch the GPA go up, then add all of the lowest/unweighted grades first.
One bright note is that while you can only count 8 honors/AP grade points, schools do consider the overall number of rigorous classes a student takes INCLUDING those not yet finished. Senior year rigor counts as long as the student maintains the conditions of the acceptance (3.00 overall with no D’s in core classes in the case of my son).
Take heart in the fact that good students will have earned good options once all of the acceptances come out.
Good luck!