Before I comment, I would say that I have no special knowledge of what the admissions folks want. I’m a Dad of a current 8th grader thinking of applying to the same types of school as you. What I would say is that if my son does attend one of these schools, I hope you are there too and the two of you become friends. I think you are a rock star and probably a wonderful person as well. Go for what you want, and good luck!