回复：The Regional AO sent a post card

Yes, they usually do that.  AO makes the recommendation and his/her recommendations are rarely rejected by committee.  AO needs to work with HS counselors to admit students and also protect yield because counselors will have a feel about students' interest in a particular school.  Both regional AO and counselors are critical.  This is where private high schools shine in the admission to top schools compare to public ones.