A software disable definitely sounds simpler.  The only upside I can see to actually taking out the adapter might be if you could put them in a computer than needs one.  

It does seem that schools by default store things though, and we're running into a bit of a problem (just requires disposal) at Burke of way too many of certain assets, especially outdated ones.  So while it might be handy to have a few wireless adapters, it could also just be a storage headache in a few years when wireless has moved on sufficiently.