A new vending machine at Christel House Academy West (CHAW) doesn’t dispense snacks or soda. Instead, the machine offers something better for students – the joy of reading! When K-8 kids earn a gold token, they’re rewarded with a brand-new book. “They love it,” says Kelly West, CHAW Literacy Coach, of the student reaction to the new book vending machine. Teachers and staff can recognize and reward students with a gold token for good reading habits, excellent work on class assignments, and positive behavior. West says the “I Love to Read” gold tokens are a strong motivator for the kids. Dayanne, a sixth grader, earned her gold coin for helping others and by participating in class. “The opportunity to choose a book encourages students to read and helps them build their own at-home library,” says West. CHAW Principal Donnie Carver utilized a grant to purchase the vending machine and the thousands of books to keep it full. “It’s been a very successful opportunity to expand and promote a culture of reading at the school,” he says.