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Watch: More Wisconsin parents are opting kids out of private school tests.

If kids have to take a test in school, they usually do. But in Wisconsin’s private schools, their parents are increasingly writing notes so they don’t have to.

Many students across Wisconsin are taking the state’s standardized test right now. But parents can opt their children out of the Forward Exam in both public and private schools by submitting a written request.

While public schools often see higher overall testing participation, recent data shows some of the private schools getting taxpayer-funded vouchers have high opt-out rates, with some voucher students skipping the exam.

✏️: Salina Heller

COMMUNITY - UpNorthNews

Watch: Students bring culture home as school food pantry supports Latino families

Limes, black beans, and corn are a few things students can bring home from school in Arcadia.

That’s encouraging to the district’s Latino students, who feel their culture is being respected through food.

The school counselor says it's fostering a sense of pride and belonging, making them more engaged in school.

The food pantry at school is more important than ever as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—known as FoodShare in Wisconsin—cuts are expected to impact school children by reducing access to free meals, with up to 18 million children across the country potentially losing benefits.

FoodShare supports many students by addressing food insecurity, which is directly linked to improved academic performance, higher graduation rates, and better physical health.

✏️: Salina Heller

COMMUNITY - UpNorthNews