FS9 is about $19 at Walmart right now, and the interface is whatever you make of it. It's also only a game if you treat it that way. Many folks use it as a tool to aid their training, and probably one of the least expensive tools out there.
As for schools... the more separation I can get from the government, the better. I spent 12 years in 'public' indoctrination kamps, and I'm not impressed. If my wife would allow it, I would homeschool Zoe, but will likely have to settle for a private school. Unfortunately, most private schools operate under the oppressive Prussian model, just like Ze Publik Skrewels.