I see that I didn't mention the fact that I am within the US regulatory domain, and as such would either need to configure an unrestricted controller for the US domain or obtain a -US part number.
As far as ArubaCare goes, there actually do seem to be "education" versions, as can be evidenced by the existence of the EN1 series of part numbers, but other than the phrase "FOR EDUCATION" in the part number I have been unable to find *any* additional information online about it.
As it turns out, "talking with my local sales team" is like pulling teeth. After several days of trying to get ahold of someone at Aruba USA I spoke with someone who wasn't actually able to answer my question regarding the ArubaCare including my question about which entities qualify for the education prices.
I was hoping someone who has already run into my questions before would be able to answer them andecdotally.