Please don't focus on making a lab with rows of desks. Research is showing that if you want students to engage with ICTs in the learning process, it needs to move away from how the ergonomics of the room is setup. Will the lab be used across all KLA (subjects areas)? If it is, consider what these subjects need to really engage with the technology. Desks which can be reconfigured to collaborate in breakout spaces should be considered. Read up on some of the stuff that Stephen Heppell has to say about agile learning spaces. Some of the stuff from the UK future labs should be considered also. Consider putting up LCDs on the side walls to replicate what is shown on the front screen. Also if students can collaborate in groups and project on the screens in small groups. Sure, wired Ethernet is king for management. For collaborative learning it's hard to beat ubiquitous wireless. Kids arent tethered to locations. Power pits in floor if you can afford it. Does your school run a 1:1 program? We are slowly phasing out labs, and turning them into general purpose areas. Keep asking. Sure, Ubuntu and the other suggestions might be good, but what's the total cost of ownership? If non-tech teachers are trying to engage in there, make it as simple as possible. Good luck!

as a highschool teacher and the IT network administrator, i pray daily that kids don't find portableapps.com - completely voids any control policies in place. Another important think to remember is any solution you develop, it has to be sustainable. That includes you being transferred, change of technicians, principal etc. If i could give any advice ive learnt - do NOT implement technology that requires you to run it as a feather in your hat (e.g promotional opportunities/demonstrations). Once you go, the school will more than likely be stuffed as they may not replace you with someone with a similar technical understanding.

Marching on Adelaide to affect change in Australia is about as effective as marching on Juneau to affect change on the US. and Canberra? most people i know wouldnt waste their time going there...