PointBank sponsors book vending machine for Aubrey students
Reading just got even better as Owen’s Middle School unveiled its book vending machine in the corner of the campus library.
Students were able to test the machine at the unveiling to see how it worked, and the students get to keep the books they select.
“Reading is the foundation of what we do, and so if kids can be excited about reading a book of their choice, that makes it even better,” Superintendent Dr. Shannon Saylor said. “They just get excited about literature and diving into a book, and whether they’re going somewhere else in their mind or they’re going somewhere else [because of] the book, I think it’s a great experience for our kids.”
There in attendance was Evalois Owens, the school’s namesake.
She has served for 40 years in Aubrey ISD and has been a member of the Aubrey Education Foundation since its establishment in 2000.
“[I’m] so proud,” Owens said. “It means more things for the kids to do and gives them more opportunities to read, which is the most important thing that they do.”
AEF President Christina Adamson expressed thanks to the teachers and PointBank for the contribution, a sentiment that Owens Middle School principal Pamela Foster shared as well.
“PointBank, you have no idea how much this means to us to be able to bring reading, and for me, reading for real with … books in hand, to our students and watch them grow, read, learn and just imagine the things they could do with getting into a book,” Foster said.
She continued to express her appreciation to AEF for partnering with PointBank on the vending machine and for the foundation’s continuous support.
“We’re excited that everybody understands the importance of literacy and helping these students grow their at-home library,” Executive Director Holly Drew said. “That’s our main focus.”
The way students receive a book from the vending machine varies by school; however, the purpose of the machine remains the same.
“This book vending machine is more than just something fun,” Adamson said. “It’s an opportunity for these kids to get the chance to earn books, to feel proud of their achievement and to hopefully discover a love of reading. At AEF, we strive in our mission to grow, support, and inspire students and teachers. Literacy is a huge part. … One book will make a huge difference for you guys, can spark an imagination and build progress.”
Representing both as a board member of AEF and as the Vice President/ Branch Manager of Aubrey’s PointBank was Shannon Black.
“I’m proud to work for an organization that is generous enough to allow for us to do this,” Black said. “I’ve been in the Aubrey school district—this is going on my fifth year now. I have one child that’s graduated. I have one that’s going through high school. So, to be a part of the Aubrey community has been very special. They’ve been very welcoming, so I’m just really excited and very proud.”
Alongside Black to unveil the book vending machine was PointBank’s CEO J. Raymond David Sr., who spoke and recalled his distaste for reading as a student and shared how he eventually learned how important it was.
“When I got into my profession, I’m constantly reading content,” David said. “I’m constantly reading emails. I’m constantly reading, and so it is very important in your life, whether you think it is today or not. So, every opportunity you get, I encourage you to read books.”
David closed by thanking everyone for the opportunity to sponsor the book machine.
Soon each campus except Aubrey High School will feature a book vending machine for the students to use.
