Linux in Exeter Public Schools?

[Casey Callendrello]

Hello All:

My apologies if this message is sent twice.  I made some silly mistakes 
having to do with folders and the like.  In any case:

Hi, my name is Casey Callendrello, I'm a senior at Phillips Exeter 
Academy.  Next year I'll be studying Computer Science at Columbia 
University.  I've been a linux fan since slackware 7.x--a rough "first 
distro" (it came with a pretty good book though).  I'm LPI level 1 
certified, something I did for no good reason, don't ask me why.  Well, 
now you know enough about me, here's what's up:

Recently, the issue of the Exeter Area High School has come up.  The new 
building proposal has a grand total of $900,000 for _everything_ 
computer related, something that, with most setups, would be patently 
absurd for a 1,500 to 1,800 student school in a brand new building, no 
prexisting anything save the pc's they are keeping.  Of course, the 
whole network is Windows based.  For Exeter taxpayer's sake, it would be 
in our interest to get Linux into the school.

Believe it or not, I don't think it would be much of an issue convincing 
the school board to use Linux.  They are incredibly stingy: I personally 
know one of the members and can quote her saying "I'll never pay more 
than $15,000 a year for college.  It's not that important."  Just so you 
know the purebred stinginess we're dealing with.

My sister has reporded (an insider!!) that the school's approach to 
technology has been disconnected and ultimately useless.  We, as an LUG, 
could provide an incredible service to the students: by familiarizing 
them with Linux, we are promoting the OS we know and love, and are 
saving the school time and money.  Anyone remember the Install-Fests 
that took place in several Washington counties?

While the time is not yet right, especially since the school hasn't even 
had a final site plan drawn up, much less been approved by the voters, 
it would be tremendous opportunity that would be a shame to miss.  Here 
there is a chance to expose 1,500 students (200, I'll be honest, who 
actually care) to a proper computing setup, as opposed to the weak, 
lackluster approach to technology Exeter is currently taking.  

Any thoughts?

Sincerely, Casey Callendrello