Yes, Syracuse and IU year after year are the #1 and #2 schools (if you look at US News) - always and always ahead of Harvard. It used to be SU alone.
Finding out outcomes for students straight through vs. who come back - would be a good indicator.
Maxwell (SU) puts out grads who lead in both the public and private sector.
The discussion here is UNC/UW but I mentioned these two schools because they are known leaders and seeing how outcomes differ might help OP.
In general, someone who has work experience has more to add to class discussions, etc. and that’s why it’s a better fit…IMHO. They also stand out to employers - vs. who knows what we are getting and if they know what it means to work.
With a better understanding of the student landscape from both an admissions and outcomes POV, the student can make a better distinction as to whether it’s smart to go straight through or to your point, not at all.
I am pro MPA but I’d rather, if my student, they get an MBA - even for governmental jobs.
Best of luck to OP.