When I was in 6th grade, I took a test that put me into algebra in 7th grade. The other options were pre-algebra, or remedial math. My parents didn't pay anyone

When I was in 6th grade, I took a test that put me into algebra in 7th grade. The other options were pre-algebra, or remedial math. My parents didn't pay anyone, and this actually took place when I switched from private school to public school. How was that not a measure of my intelligence? Don't you think I would have missed out in terms of education if I was placed in the lowest tier, which is effectively what removing gifted programs does?