> The last side door for smart noncomformist kids is now being slammed shut.

How does a standardized test benefit nonconformists? I strongly disagree with eliminating the SAT, but always viewed success at it as requiring one to conform to a certain template. You need to shift your thinking patterns and your style to match what test writers want.

Wouldn't nonconformists have some of the more interesting extracurriculars and essays, things which have increased in value?

I agree with the part about smart kids being disadvantaged by the SAT going away, but nonconformists and smart people are not the same thing.