[KLUG Members] Working Together to get Linux in schools

[Doc Rea]

Greetings all:

I've been on the lists for awhile, but haven't said much except for the
occasional question. However, the latest “Linux in Schools” thread
couldn't have come at a better time. Let me explain:

I work at WMU. This year I'm working in the Building Bridges project.
Its focus is bringing technology to non-profits and the community. My
specific role in the program is to build, coordinate and direct
technology assistance centers (TAC) to help non-profits analyze, design,
implement, and maintain technology solutions. In other words, we make
sure the tech works like it should so the non-profits can do their jobs
better.

While I won't force non-profits to go with Linux as their OS, I am
making sure that they see how much they can do with Linux and Open
Source. (I don't think it will be a problem once they see the cost
benefit and the support they'll get.) The TACs would provide the
implementation of machines and networks as well as serve as a Help Desk
to member organizations. I also am creating a development shop on campus
where students will act as consultants and programmers building systems
and applications. I'm pushing for most of this to be Open Source as
well.

In any case, I think that both the Kalamazoo and Comstock schools would
be great places to try some of this out. Not only are they close by so
WMU students can really get involved, they are also high profile. Plus,
I can recruit high school students who want to do networking,
programming, etc. 

Anyhow, those are just some preliminary thoughts. I think KLUG members
would be a great resource for this initiative.

Thoughts?