There's no real difference between Macs and PCs. There are BIG differences. For instance, compared to Windows PCs, the Mac OS is easier to learn, requires fewer keystrokes for similar tasks, and results in much higher user productivity. Educating students on computers involves MUCH more than exposing them to Windows. And most major software is available for the Macintosh.
Macs are VERY reliable.
Compared to Windows PCs, Macs are easier to maintain, and when properly maintained , they experience far fewer problems. Furthermore, Macs are much less prone to virus attacks, and are more secure. Few companies, and even fewer products, perfectly address a customer's requirements or desires. In our case, this situation should never have come about - and it is partly due to what Apple did and did not do. To that end, the first version of our detailed list of suggested Apple improvements has already been published at the MacCentral web site.