ELLENBURG DEPOT — More than 200 elementary students here line up every morning to enjoy the most important meal of the day — for free.

In an effort to curb childhood obesity and fuel learning, the Northern Adirondack Central School initiated the free breakfast program this year, becoming the first district in Clinton County to do so.

“We were committed to being able to provide breakfast for the students,” said NACS Superintendent Laura Marlow.

She said the number of students eating breakfast at the school has more than doubled since the program began this school year.

“(The students are) healthier because they’re in a breakfast program,” she added, citing research that shows a correlation between higher test scores and nutritious breakfasts.

“We really think it’s a fuel for learning.”

Breakfast options are broad and always include nutritious options, such as granola bars, fruit and yogurt.

The school also has its own “McBobcat Muffin,” a breakfast sandwich made of egg, cheese and a choice of ham, sausage or bacon.

So far, the feedback from teachers, students and parents has been positive, Marlow said.

She hopes they can offer the program at the Junior/Senior High School next year.

“It’s just another way to give back to the taxpayers. What a good investment.”

Elementary School Principal Lisa Silver shares Marlow’s excitement about the program.

“I am thrilled we are able and willing to offer free breakfast to all of our students,” she said in a statement. “Making sure every student starts the day with breakfast is a wonderful way to prepare them for a day filled with academic success.”

The program runs from 8 a.m., when students get off the bus, until about 8:20 a.m., Marlow said.

Peggy LaPoint, who has worked in the cafeteria for more than 20 years, said they are busy every morning serving breakfast to the students.