Of course, at elite BS or preps, there are parents who insist. But there can be a realistic quality difference in LoRs, albeit between the lines. The superlatives can be missing or the examples less wowing. Most elite BS letters will seem to pass the parent sniff test. But adcoms can see it, especially when they know what years of strong letters look like. This isnt sabotage, but letters aimed at the right tiers and matches.
I don’t think a public GC should prevent a kid from having any reaches. But what’s a reach here, a tippy top or another level? I think we agree most GC don’t know enough about what could get a kid into any college that’s a stretch. Those who do should be able to sit down and explain the hesitation. It shouldn’t feel arbitrary. There can be discussion and hopefully, a smart compromise. But kids and families (you know I’ll say this) need to be aware of reality, as well.