Last fall's school fundraiser at McNeal Elementary in Lakewood Ranch resulted in a new vending machine, but it's not filled with snacks - it's stocked full of books!
Students and their families collected funds totaling more than $30,000 during their Boosterthon for various purposes.
After the money was raised, the PTO (Parent Teacher Organization) Board ordered an "Inchy the Bookworm Vending Machine".
As far as we know, this book vending machine is the first of its kind in Manatee County schools.
McNeal teachers got the idea after seeing them pop-up in different school districts across the country.
Book titles range from Pre-K to 5th grade reading levels, from picture books to chapter books, so there's something for everyone.
Classroom teachers each receive one gold token per week.
A student drops a coin into the machine, which then dispenses a new book.
"Teachers can decide how to reward their students for meeting class expectations," said Media Specialist Kelly Smart. "This is an exciting new tool and a cool reading incentive to have at our school."
The vending machine holds 300 books and the PTO purchased extras in order to restock it throughout the school year.
Great job finding an innovative way to promote literacy!