I am not sure I agree with prioritizing academics. All of my kids probably did well enough to meet benchmarks at their eventual schools but I would guess it is what they did outside of school that helped with admissions. That said, conflicts do arise between activities, even just based on time slots, as high school progresses and choices do need to be made. You are wise to make EC’s related to writing your top priority. If you write, have you thought about applying to a Scholastics Award? Home | Scholastic Art and Writing Awards
Also agree with above poster that well-being, sleep and even down time are important too!