Students noticed frequent malfunctions in the vending machines toward the end of the 2024 school year. Entering the 2024–2025 school year, students and teachers were surprised to find the vending machines completely gone. These machines once provided convenient access to water, sparkling drinks, and snacks, offering a quick and accessible option for students during the school day.
The Office of School Food and Nutrition revealed that the vending machine contracts expired in August 2024. As a result, many New York City public high schools, including HSTAT, no longer have vending machines, depriving students of their convenience and benefits. Assistant Principal of Organization, Mr. Demartini, explained, “HSTAT had no responsibility for the vending machines. The NYCDOE managed the contracts with the vending machine companies, handling restocking and financial needs. The contract’s expiration is the main reason we no longer have vending machines at Telecom.” HSTAT has no control over the machines; the NYCDOE oversaw their implementation in NYC public high schools.
Students and staff shared their thoughts on the disappearance. Senior Khadiga Farghaly said, “It was so convenient when I forgot to bring water to school or wanted a cool, refreshing beverage.” Currently, the only way students can purchase snacks or drinks during the school day is through the Student Government store in Room 501, which is only accessible during lunch periods. This is less convenient, especially for students with eighth-period lunch who must wait the entire day to visit the store, leaving them thirsty throughout their classes.
When asked about life with vending machines, Dean Ms. Chan remarked, “It was heaven. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, teachers could get beverages like Snapple, Brisk, water, and even snacks. I was sad to see them go, as they were great for a quick drink or snack.” College Advisor Ms. Dumaresq added, “They were very convenient. There was one in the lobby, so if I forgot my water bottle, I could buy one. But the machines were often out of order or out of stock, so they were only helpful when they worked, which was rare.”
School Aide Ms. Vitaliti raised a different concern, noting, “Students often bought from the vending machines during my lunchroom shifts. They frequently told me the machines took their money without dispensing anything. I wasn’t sure how to help but made sure to report it.” Senior Anid Ibroci echoed this frustration: “I often tried buying from the machines, but my $1, $5, or $20 bills would get taken, and I wouldn’t get what I paid for. I got frustrated and stopped using them.”
Seniors Megan Lorenti, Evelina Iskhakova, and Oscar Ramirez shared similar complaints, expressing annoyance with the machines’ frequent malfunctions and lack of stock. They said they often avoided using them, fearing their money would be taken or finding items marked “not in stock.” The vending machines were a valuable resource for students, teachers, and staff, offering affordable snacks and drinks, especially for those who forgot food or drinks at home or wanted something quick after lunch. Their absence has left a gap, and many at HSTAT believe the vending machines should return due to their significant benefits.
