[K12OSN] Why Linux?

[Joseph Morelock]

In my state (Oregon), the department of education has implemented a 
statewide student testing system that is completely web-based. Our 
first year on the testing system, we ended up having to close the 
library for nearly ten weeks so we could use their computer lab to 
test, and we moved teachers and classes around to take over their labs 
to complete the testing during the rest of the year. We, along with 
many other districts, had no money to add more labs (for either the 
hardware or people to maintain them). With the LTSP project, we were 
able to build a 50 station lab with old/outdated hardware (only 
purchasing a server). It is unfathomable what we would have done 
without this option. We are in the process of adding another two labs 
(since it is thin client/server we only have to admin one machine).

Oh, and one more thing... we have not restarted the server(s) for our 
lab for more than two years (and counting....). That's what I call 
"maintenance-free."


Joe


On Nov 4, 2004, at 9:35 AM, Jason wrote:

> Hi Everyone.
>
> I've been reading this list for about a week now and I'm enjoying it 
> very much.  It's been a great source of information.
>
> I work for a school board that just quite doesn't understand the 
> benefit of Linux especially LTSP.  We did have Linux servers for 
> authentication for Windows machines and proxy etc but they got cold 
> feet and went with MS 2003 Server (not without problems)
>
> We are currently working on getting 2 LTSPs at an elementary school 
> and secondary school (for special education).
>
> I was wondering if anyone has some information, suggestions, 
> presentations etc of the benefits of Linux/LTSP in the educational 
> area.  I have some websites bookmarked but I'm looking for more 
> personal experience from a technician, teacher etc point of view.
>
> I'd like to use it to make a white paper of sorts to show how well 
> Linux/LTSP works and saves money and time.
>
> Thank You for your time.
>
> Jason
>
>
>
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>
>
Joseph Morelock
Director of Network & Information Services
Canby School District
morelocj at canby.k12.or.us
503.266.7861

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