PVNova, Congratulations to you and your son. While Mountainhiker correctly notes that this forum is almost entirely devoted to discussions about private boarding schools, there is no rule of exclusivity (e.g., private day schools creep into the discussion as well), and at least part of your question relates to a topic we are all familiar with, finding the right "fit." You should be able to find plenty of good suggestions on the threads where that topic appears.
TJ is, of course, a singular diamond among public magnet schools. Perhaps it goes unmentioned in this forum partly as an act of willful blindness. Its stats regarding student SAT scores, Intel and Siemens finalists, NMF, NMSF, college placement, eventual Rhodes Scholars, etc., as well as the breadth and depth of its STEM course offerings blow away virtually all of the private schools held dear here. If prestige is what you are after, then look no further. Coupled with its pricetag, TJ offers a source of remediless envy. Let's make this the last such mention, so those of us who reside outside of its catchment area and inside our private BS bubble can resume our bliss
Assuming you and your son are looking for more than a nameplate, then consider that AOS appears to offer a somewhat more low key (much smaller student body, newer school, less established tradition, though with stratospheric stats of its own), but still fabulous educational experience. Ultimately the choice between it and TJ should be S's, based upon what he feels will suit him - integrated science curriculum at AOS v. smorgashboard of choices at TJ, more competitive sports and extracurricular offerings at TJ v. more leadership opportunities at smaller AOS, more friends going to one or the other, particularly keen interest served better by one or the other, etc. CCers should recognize your choice as similar to that between the larger "sink or swim" and smaller "nurturing" BSs.
As for your specific GPA and college placement questions, I'd suggest going to the schools themselves for clarification, if you really must know. However, I think those questions are beside the point. Both schools have strong track records. If your son finds the right fit, there is no question that he'll be on the road to academic success. Again, congratulations, and good luck.
