Hey there - that sounds like a tricky trade-off. I wonder - do you like his friends? Do you like their families? are they a good influence? if so, that is worth a lot. A new kid in any school risks being a social outcast. Is there any way to supplement his education in other ways so you both can be satisfied?

At this age they want to be identical to their peers. IF he has struggled in the past to make friends then I would say don't upset the apple cart. If there aren't any real friends then he might do well making a brand new start and having a clean slate.

I wouldnt make it sound like so much of a demand, but a choice that he wants to make on his own.  Would it help if you took him there for a tour first?  Can that be done?

I would absolutely recommend going to the charter school. At this age, academics are incredibly important. They are the buildling blocks that your son will build upon for the rest of his life. Getting a good high school education can affect where he goes to college and beyond. Knowing that he has the ability to conquer anything the future throws at him will give your son a self confidence that a comfortable social life won't. Friends are important, but your son can make new friends at the charter school while still keeping in contact with his old friends. 

One way to help him make new friends at the charter school could be his joining a sports team! He'd have a built in community right there. Good luck with this big decisions! :)

I agree, it'll be rough at first but as long as your son approaches this with an open mind, then eventually all those fears and insecurities will translate into fun and friends!

If you choose the charter school you could tell your son that you will help him make an effort to stay in touch with his friends on a regular basis, Let him know that he will meet new friends but he will not have to give up the ones from his public school and the neighborhood. Good luck!

I also agree with the Charter option. Since he will be starting high school, it would be a good time to transition and he will make new friends. Maybe, think of ways he can stay in touch with his old friends.

Wow that is tough! Does he want to go other than the friend issue? If so I would probably see if he would at least give it 6 months or a year and let him know that he can still see his friends and you will help to make that happen. He will always wonder and this may be something that will open many doors for him. I think though he has to be heard and allowed ot express his concerns and reasons. Maybe even sit with a guidance counselor to discus the pros and cons with him.