It’s breakfast on the house for Flathead Valley students, courtesy of McDonald’s.

Local McDonald’s owner Scott Hadwin distributed 6,900 breakfast coupons to Kalispell, Evergreen and Libby schools.

Each coupon is redeemable for a free Egg McMuffin, apple slices and milk or orange juice.

The aim is to provide good breakfasts for children during this period of standardized testing.

As a parent of both a Kalispell elementary student and middle school student, Hadwin said he knows the importance of breakfast, particularly on test days.

“Kids do better when they eat breakfast,” Hadwin said. “I remember the long days of testing.”  

Hadwin owns four McDonald’s restaurants in the Flathead Valley.

“We want to give them the best chance during testing,” he said.

Coupons are redeemable through March 23 when state testing is completed.

“We wish all students some good success on their CRTs,” Hadwin said.

Schools are administering Criterion Referenced Tests. Grades third through eighth and 10th are tested in reading and math. Grades four, eight and 10 also are tested in science.

Kim Anderson, Evergreen Junior High principal, was appreciative of McDonald’s support. Anderson said breakfast is a vital part of test-taking success.

“During state testing, students who come rested and who have had a good breakfast often can focus better and in the long run be more successful on the CRTs,” Anderson said.

Jennifer Montague, Kalispell Public Schools food service director, said an optimal breakfast is one that includes complex carbohydrates, protein and low sugar content.

Montague added that the higher the nutrient value, the better students function cognitively. She recommended scrambled eggs, whole grain toast, yogurt, fruit or oatmeal with milk and nuts.

“Including healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, avocado and olive oil help boost overall brain development in children,” Montague said.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or by email at hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.