My kid has a HP elitebook touch screen leased through school. It is a lot more expansive but has almost all school books and reference books loaded. The school use it heavily and have the kids do most of the homework on it. The good thing is they have a good scurity system running and I don't have to explain why she can't access to any online email or IM.
If that is not how your PC is used, anything would do just fine.Latitute is business line with less ports and worst possible soun and video card. On the other hand, it can take some abuse. That wouldn't be a problem if it is used at home primarily, not in school.
I would take PC over Apple any day, especially if your idea is to have kid exposed to computer. Chances are you kid will work with PC, not Mac.
Chek out the outlet deal, Dell ofter have 20 to 25% off coupon once in a while. Same one year warranty.