Depending on the college or university--many of them will accept the credits from a technical college they approve--and tuition is much less expensive at technical colleges. So that may be an option too. The first year is just basics--so maybe check to see if the school he wants to go to will accept transfer credits from a tech school.
I agree with what everyone else said. The sooer he is off your taxes and independent the sooner he will be more qualified for available financial aid. Work study is good and there is nothing wrong with him getting a job too. I agree, if he has some vested interest he may be more inclined to know the value of what he (you) are paying for.
Sometimes that first year can be a tough one especially if they are not living at home. So if he can go somewhere less expensive that may help. Also, if he decides college is not for him (hopefully that will not be the case) you will not have spent all the money that he may decide to use when he is better prepared for college. But, you would know how motivated he is.