Linux in American High Schools

I recently started a Linux User Group (something relatively unheard of) in my high school in Los Angeles, and although the membership is rather small right now, I noticed that many of my peers undermine the value of Linux or bother to know what an operating system is.  Besides, in our spending culture, most high schoolers use their computers to social network, play games, or just do homework.

In a larger sense, Linux isn't well adopted amongst American schools because it seems mundane at first glance and "worse than paid software," whereas in developing countries across the globe, Linux has become a staple for families, students, and professionals alike. Somehow, freedom in software isn't as appealing in America.

I believe that Ubuntu is the perfect entry point for starters into the world of Linux.  Students learning Linux will not only gain an appreciation for free software, but also get involved in a worldwide community of volunteers.  For schools, that would mean fresh, stable, and reliable servers.