What was hoped to be gained from the more prestigious schools? A better experience? A better college outcome? Bragging rights? Figure that out and then correlate with the available options.
It is certainly possible that one of the “top” schools might provide a more ideal experience for a particular student, especially in that the experience at the largest schools must differ from the rest simply on the basis of school size. Individual academic programs and departmental offerings vary. Rules and school cultures vary. Opportunities vary. Those things are worthy of consideration. College outcome is likely to be similar. Yes, more prestigious schools send a higher percentage of students to prestigious colleges, but a school itself is unlikely to change an individual student’s prospects. Bragging rights? I’m not immune to the appeal, although I’m finding that the more I have to brag about with regard to my children, the less I want to do it. When children are young and the achievements are small, boasting to other parents is fine, because they can find something to highlight about their own children and we all can kvell together and be happy for everyone. However, I don’t want to discuss my children’s successes in high school with parents whose children aren’t as happy as mine or aren’t doing as well. The stakes are higher now, and I don’t want to make anyone feel bad. But if bragging rights are very important in one’s circle and the most prestigious school is also a good fit for the child, there’s nothing wrong with choosing prestige.