by Patricia Laird
TABERNACLE, NJ – A vending machine filled with healthy treats that feed the mind may sound like a dream for parents, but Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine has arrived at Tabernacle Elementary School.
On Friday, as part of Read Across America week (observed March 2-6), students will celebrate the school’s new addition by cutting a ribbon in the media center. Tabernacle Home and School Association (HSA) and Tabernacle Township Education Foundation purchased the vending machine.
For the first time, students in kindergarten through fourth grade will receive special tokens to purchase a book from Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine who have completed a summer reading project. Through the school’s “Tiger Ticket” initiative – a Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program – students can earn tokens for the machine for everyday actions that demonstrate good character.
“We are really excited about this new addition, and we know the kids will be too,” said Shaun Banin, Superintendent and Principal of Tabernacle Township School District.
A bookmark with information on how to donate books was created for students by the HSA, which worked with the school’s media specialist.