East Central ISD’s Highland Elementary School introduced its newest way to engage students in reading and books!
![Students take a walk through storygarden](https://www.wegopublic.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Highland-Forest-Elementary-1024x684.png)
The last day of school was an extra special one at Highland Forest Elementary – the school, along with Librarian Josie Martinez, unveiled its shiny new Book Vending Machine and beautiful Storywalk Garden.
The East Central School Foundation’s Leroy Smith Teacher Mini-Grant program funded the Book Vending Machine. Students can earn coins for good behavior and “purchase” books to build their home library.
The Storywalk Garden will provide a unique outdoor learning classroom complete with a lovely landscape.
![Teachers sharing their exciting with a high five!](https://www.wegopublic.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Highland-Forest-Elementary-3-1024x754.png)
![Group of students showing off their new books.](https://www.wegopublic.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Highland-Forest-Elementary-4-1024x766.png)
Blog by: Cass Garza, Intern, UTSA
Source: East Central ISD