Linux+User+Group

Facilitators: Kevin O'Neill (Gretna) Jeff Ingraham (ESU #3) Description: This session is targeted at professionals who’s primary platform / interest is Linux / Open Source Talking Points: OS Versions, Virus Protection, System Maintenance / Upgrades, Utilities, Tips / Tricks,
 * Linux User Group** - Kayser Hall 238

Gretna Currently uses Open Source Software heavily throughout the district

Joombla Content management service Runs web site for Gretna PHP - MySQL based Secretaries in various buildings are allowed to update content. Updates are very important. Web server was hacked in Gretna. Did not cause any big problem but it is very important to update frequenty

Moodle in Gretna Open Source Classroom content - Comparable to Blackboard or Angel Started slowly and has built up each year as teachers learn about the capabilities Growing into it Example - Industrial tech classes - Safety tests all taken online. Has added days of instruction by using online content. The way teachers get content to and from school

Science teacher at Gretna High School - Doug Bartelsen dbertelsen@esu3.org Linux Laptops used in science classroom Thin Client with open office etc. G3 powerbooks used Macs for consistency of hardware

Neo-office has replaced MS Office Stopped buying MS Office iwork loaded throughout the district

Netbooks now available from a wide variety of sources. $250 for one to one programs vs $1200

Laptops Repurposing ild Clamshell ibooks running linux

Questions about reliability of repurposed machines Because machines are not sent home, Kevin reported the reliability is very good.

Microsoft licensing questions 80,000 machines in Millard $80,0000 for Office in Westside. Open source software looks like a very good option for a lot of schools.

Topic of support issues on new versions of software and apps. Gretna takes the position that it is the responsibility of the teachers to get up to speed on new apps.

Millard wants to find niche environments where a linux thin client system or small scale rollout.