As a former teacher, it has been my experience that the kids who like alternative school do usally for a number of reasons: 1. Its usually smaller and yes, you do get one on one attention that a larger school can not provide; but also sometimes a smaller school feels safer. 2.It has a very rigid structure, therefore the kids know the "drill"--most kids including teenagers want structure, it gives them a sense of security.
However, his behavior that landed him in alternative school should not be condoned at all! Nor should disrespect be something you or his mother endure. Addressing disrespect should really be viewed as a life lesson: For example in our family when our teenage sons became disrespectful there were consequences. We explained it like this--in the real world when you have a job, there will be bosses that you don't like for whatever reason; however they are your boss and you must respect their position. If you disrespect you boss one of the consequences might be getting fired, which means loss of money, etc... You need to set up some very firm consequences to stop disrespect within your family.
I would also suggest that a meeting with the school, since he likes the alternative school and it is meeting a need for him, to address why. Many school districts often have an alternative high schools that allows open enrollment for those kids that are just not getting their needs met in a regular high school enviroment--making it a win-win for everyone.