Private vs. Public

I have been mulling over the decision to send Alex to a private or public school. He has been attending a public school and has received a wonderful education, but we're moving and he will have the option to attend a private school. A month ago, my mind was decided and he was going to attend the private school. Recently, however, parents who have kids in the private school have enlightened me of the politics that are involved with the school. In regards to education, I've heard wonderful things about both schools. The private school offers a much smaller classroom and more individual attention. Alex would be in a class with about 25 other students as opposed to a graduating class of around 400. However, the public school offers more in regards to arts and trade opportunities. The kids in the private school seem to be a close group of kids who look out for each other, but from what I've heard, the parents can be clicky. I really like the idea of integrating religion with education in Alex's life and although we will be living in a larger city, I love the idea of a small school. With the same token, I'm afraid of the politics involved with this private school. The other factor that weighs on my mind is Alex’s father. He’s a great dad and Alex loves hanging out with him, but education isn’t something that his dad values and I sometimes feel like I have to over compensate for that and surround Alex with a system that gives provides more individual attention.

Please give me your thoughts on both schools. I did not have the option to attend a private school so I need some outside perspectives. I've met with both administrations and again, either school will offer Alex a wonderful education.