An exciting new addition is the talk of Carthage ISD’s Libby Elementary this week. The school added a book vending machine to the campus to get students excited about reading, and also motivate them to excel academically and behaviorally. The initial idea came from Second Grade Teacher Ms. Jamie Sanders, and after she approached Principal Staci Davis about it, Davis was convinced that Libby needed this.
The hard work that Ms. Sanders poured into the research and development of this grant was rewarded yesterday with big smiles on students’ faces as they cut the ribbon for the new book vending machine.
With funding of just over $9,900 provided by the Charles C. Matthews Foundation through the Carthage ISD Education Foundation, Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine and the initial supply of books became a reality.
“We are just so excited about this new addition to our campus, and thankful for the support of the Carthage ISD Education Foundation and the Matthews Foundation,” said Libby Elementary Principal Staci Davis. “Not only is this a really fun way to get students excited and motivated to read, but it will encourage good behavior and hard work in the classroom.”
Students can earn special tokens to “purchase” books in this vending machine by exhibiting good behavior, a great attitude and excellent work ethic in their classrooms. The vending machine is stocked with 850 Accelerated Reader books initially to reward students. Books to replenish the machine will be provided through funds from the Libby Elementary campus budget.