how can i distribute the future data onto separate computers using ms sql srvr08.

Question

i have made a one database having three tables.

these three tables are common across 20 departments in a college, but the data is not.

problem is each department has its own computer lab, and wants to maintain its own computer where only the particular departments data is stored.

( please ignore the fact that its not needed as sql server can handle millions of....... )

have to do it so,

my solution:-

• install sql server 2008 express (free :-) ) on one computer in each department
• copy paste the database schema
• put different connection string code to connect to the respective departments computer to read, insert, delete etc

but i need a better way to achieve this is there a better way such as replication, table partitioning,

or something like

• one main server, other child servers.
• request for data related to a particular department is redirected to the server having the data. using ms sql server?