I've read about how various schools are switching to the Linux operating system, but usually those announcements just give an overview of what's going on. This, though, is far more detailed: Linux from Kindergarten to High School at LinuxJournal.com. The school sysadmin and article author outlines the reasons for the switch, and talks about how well it's worked out.
As a teacher of computer science, I am finding this year a fascinating test for Linux. Very few of our students, parents or teachers knew what Linux was before this year. I have actually found this to be a great advantage in teaching computers. In the past, I have found students to be disinterested in learning about the personal computer running Windows, because it is something most of them grew up with at home. This lack of interest made it more difficult to teach the more-advanced aspects of the operating system. However, Linux is something completely new, different and unexplored. Instead of being intimidated by the change, as many adults might be, young people are excited to explore the "uncharted territory". This opens a door for me as a teacher, allowing me to educate eager minds in the more-advanced aspects of computer operating systems and software. In fact, it only took two weeks until students began to ask me, "Where can I get Linux?" [continue]
Mexican Schools Embrace Linux
Wired: Penguin Enrolls in U.S. Schools
Linux in the Classroom
Linux for Schools project
Why should open source software be used in schools? (scroll down for many links)
France to install Linux in schools
Open Schools to Open Source
Skolelinux - Linux for Norwegian schools