Westgate Elementary has implemented a book vending machine to reward students. The idea came from Sue Seline, and was donated by Christ Child Society of Omaha.

The vending machine is awarded through the payment of Gator Bucks, which students earn by being safe, respectful and responsible. They reward themselves at their Classroom Gator Store at the end of each week. Every Wednesday, students are able to turn in their coupon for a book. 

Westgate reading specialist Breanne Parker explained the process of the vending machine.

“Students earn vending machine tokens by turning in 30 Gator Bucks to purchase a vending machine coupon during their classroom Gator Store, or they may choose to receive a coupon for a positive office referral,” Parker said. 

Donors made buying plenty of new books each year possible. This way, there will always be a variety of books available for the kids. 

“The Seline family has provided the funds through the Westside Foundation for us to purchase books for the vending machine each year,” Parker said. “Another anonymous donor has now given an additional fund to supply books.” 

All students have the opportunity to earn whichever type of book they wish to read, thanks to the variety the vending machine offers.

“We have picture books, chapter books, fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, and more,” Parker said.