January 23, 2024 – Parsons Elementary School has a new vending machine that dispenses knowledge instead of snacks.
Parsons held a ribbon cutting Tuesday for its new “Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine.”
Students can earn “gold coins” to get a book from the vending machine by having good attendance, good grades, and good citizenship in the classroom. The book fairs held at Parsons will allow the vending machine to stay fully stocked, as students start to rack up those coins to purchase new books.
The vending machines range between 5,000 and 6,000 dollars. Principal Holly Kitson said that the school held three fundraisers, and thanks to parental support, they were able to raise enough funds to purchase the vending machine.
Principal Kitson is hopeful the vending machine will give students a chance to celebrate literacy and encourage them to make good choices.
Parsons is the second school in the Decatur area to install an Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine. South Shores Elementary celebrated a ribbon cutting ceremony for their vending machine in November of last year.
Kristi Mullinix, Principal of South Shores Elementary, got the idea a year ago after seeing one at another school. Mullinix said she started applying for grants and asking for donations to fund the project. After a year of fundraising, the school was able to purchase Inchy.
In addition to donations from Junior Welfare, Casey’s General Store, the DPS Foundation, and anonymous donors to purchase Inchy, the Community Foundation gave South Shores $1000 to purchase more books. The Foundation will be sending a $1,000 literacy grant to Parsons as well to help purchase additional books.
For more information on how to purchase the Inchy’s Bookworm Vending Machine, click HERE.
