DocBrown:

The school gives you a install disc and then you have to register it through the MSDNAA program which will give you the key. You can also have the school install it for you so you don't recieve the product key, someone at the school gets the code for you and installs it.

Theog:

You are right the best way is to get a hold of the school IT admin. I've contacted them once but I'll try again.