<<
        How are you refreshing the machines after every use?
        Zenworks?
        >>

We're using something derived from RvrDist and/or ghost. It
works, but is quite awkward making it difficult to install
the necessary twice-a-semester security patches. We have
a very mixed environment with some Novell, some Samba, some
XP, some OS X ... a true learning environment.

        <<
        It makes it hard for a teacher to show a student
        a function of the software if everything is
        different....especailly when your dealing with a
        class of 25, K-8th graders.
        >>

Not to worry ! By the time they make it into the job
market, Microsoft will have come up with two different
versions (and 10 times as many buttons!).

The META literacy learning object is to "find the hidden
function that does what you want!" (Or, be like me and
just use an ascii editor :)

Of course the META challenge for the 7th graders is how
to subvert the lesson in the first place. I often run into
my niece online - while she's in english class. Her school
has been unable to keep AIM off the machines ...