McDonald’s has a freebie for educators throughout the nation this week.

McDonald’s is hosting a five-day breakfast giveaway for teachers, school staff and administrators who can get a free “Thank You Meal” now through Oct. 15 at participating restaurants during breakfast hours.

A valid work ID is needed to get the free meals that will be served in a classic Happy Meal box with a choice of one entree, hash browns and a beverage.

The program was inspired by teacher appreciation campaigns at local restaurants and is a follow-up to last year’s “Thank You” meals for first responders, according to Jennifer “JJ” Healan, the company’s vice president of marketing, brand content and engagement.

McDonald’s first introduced “Thank You” appreciation meals in spring 2020 in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic. During the two-week campaign, restaurants gave out 12 million meals to health care workers, police officers, firefighters and paramedics.

“Together with our Owner/Operators, we’re proud to serve the people who make our communities a better place, and this is an important time to say thank you to some of our everyday heroes,” McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger said in a news release.

“We were honored to give away 12 million free Thank You Meals to first responders and healthcare workers last year and now, with educators going above and beyond, we’re excited to recognize them in a way only McDonald’s can.”

To get the free meal Oct. 11-15, McDonald’s says educators need to show their valid work ID at drive-thrus or at the counter. There’s a limit of one per person during breakfast hours, which can vary by location, but usually end at 10:30 a.m.

The entrée choices are an Egg McMuffin, a bacon, egg and cheese biscuit, or a sausage biscuit. The drink choices are a medium hot or iced coffee or soft drink. Menu options can vary.

McDonald’s also is encouraging its fans to honor teachers with a social media campaign using #ThankYouMeal on Twitter, TikTok or Instagram through Oct. 15.

The chain says it will spotlight some of the most heartfelt messages on its channels, and local owners and operators will surprise teachers with breakfast delivery at their schools.

Image Sources

  • McDonald’s: Pixaby