The For the Kids Foundation recently donated book vending machines to each of the four elementary schools in the East Islip School District to promote reading. Each student at Connetquot Elementary School, John F. Kennedy Elementary School, Ruth C. Kinney Elementary School and Timber Point Elementary School will have the opportunity to choose a book to keep on their birthday with the use of special Birthday Tokens, helping them connect with reading. FTK will keep the machines stocked all year with a variety of exciting titles.

“Our students were appreciative and excited to receive their book of choice,” RCK Principal Janet Jones said. “Thanks to FTK and our amazing community for your continued support in making a difference for our kids.”

“The district is so excited that the For the Kids Foundation has supported our ‘Inspiring Growth Together’ theme and generously donated book vending machines to all of our elementary schools, sparking excitement and a renewed love for reading among our young students,” Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Lisa Belz said “These innovative machines provide a fun and engaging way for students to discover new books, fostering a lifelong passion for learning. The book vending machines offer students the opportunity to explore and choose books from their preferred genres, allowing for a more personalized and enjoyable reading experience. This incredible donation is not only a wonderful addition to our schools but also an inspiration to our students, encouraging them to explore the joy of reading in a unique and interactive way.”

“We are thrilled at FTK over our latest donation to the East Islip School District,” FTK President Cheryl Pepe said. “There was a lot of work involved, from the designing of the machines to selecting the books. To see them come to life has been very rewarding. We are excited to allow every elementary student in the district to choose a book on their birthday. We believe readers make great leaders!”