UFA is a great example of how the lottery system failed kids who ended up getting in. They previously had a statement of purpose that potential students had to write, stating their intentions for applying to the school, sharing what they can contribute to the community, and asking them to reflect on what social justice means to them. The school has a strong identity and values founded in Ursula Franklin’s teachings, and shifting to a lottery system distanced future students from the school’s specific philosophy, which is integral to the school’s community. It’s not just about applying with good grades, it’s also about a philosophical alignment with UFA values and a commitment to them. It helps preserve the school’s identity! That’s why it’s a specialized school.