From the looks of that conversation, i would say that the chances of convincing the 'Dean' that Perl should be in the curriculum is mighty slim. The conversation turns from you offering your services to Perl Versus The World!!! Seems like a very unwinnable fight. (At this point, i am interested in what this Dean's opinions of Python and Ruby are as well.)

How about contacting your local Perl Mongers Group? If there isn't one - start one! Advertise at this trade school. You may not have as many students show up as you would if you taught at their school, but a few is better than none. And when it comes to the best, there are fewer of those than the rest.

jeffa

L-LL-L--L-LL-L--L-LL-L--
-R--R-RR-R--R-RR-R--R-RR
B--B--B--B--B--B--B--B--
H---H---H---H---H---H---
(the triplet paradiddle with high-hat)