Sometimes, the fixes are little things ... if one knows where to look and how to tweak. That's good. So, good, glad the school Moodle is now working.
I've been on both sides of tech. and server admin. Can tell you that I've seen what you've described ... actually been involved in more than one of those 'pushes'. Somewhat tough road to travel unless one is very good at internal politics and motivation, etc.. On their defense, however, you might ask them what their 'typical' day is like. Or, take a day off and ask to shadow them. You might gain some insights and help them ... which in turn means something coming the other way. ;) With Moodle, it might take a village!
Moodle 2 does more ... requires more ... at for a while, some 'care and feeding'. There are some great folks in these forums who are willing to help.
'spirit of sharing', Ken