C.V. Starr Book Vending Machine Unveiling

In classrooms around the school, C.V. Starr students tuned into a visual unveiling of their new book vending machine. The machine, which deposits a book when you put a coin in, is an exciting development at the school.

Vice Principal Melissa Meness-Tirado explained the rules: “As you may know, students earn Starr Tickets when they are caught displaying our C.V. Starr values throughout the school day. We will be raffling names from all students who received a Starr Ticket in January and February. Using a random name wheel, three students per grade will be selected each month to receive a token and choose a book from the vending machine!”

A distant cheer was heard from a class of fifth graders in the library.

Meness-Tirado used a digital spinner to select students. As the rainbow spinner spun, students tried to guess where the arrow would land.

“Andy Morales in third grade,” said Meness-Tirado.

“I know him, “ said one student.

“Brooke Jusino,” said Meness-Tirado.

“She’s on my bus!” said another student.

After the winners were announced, a throng of students walked to the cafeteria where the book vending machine lives. They gathered around the machine, which was stocked with beautiful new hardcovers and softcovers with titles like: Hocus Pocus, The Gumming Gum Girl, Gum Luck, and Abeni’s Song, and excitedly made their selections.

Dalary Soto was thrilled.

“I can’t believe I am a winner, “ said Dalary, “My brother, Jacob Soto won a book from the JFK book vending machine last week! We are so lucky!”

The book vending machine at C.V. Starr and the one at JFK Elementary was purchased with money from a generous grant from the Little John Foundation, in honor of Victoria Lowry, intended to transform lives and empower students with literacy.

“We are so appreciative of the Little John Foundation for their generous donation of our new Book Vending Machine!” said Meness-Tirado, “This exciting addition to our school is a wonderful way to celebrate students who consistently demonstrate our C.V. Starr values: being Safe, Thoughtful, Accountable, Responsible, and Respectful each and every day.”