Principal Joan Seamans of Minot Forest Elementary and Principal Christine Panarese of John W. Decas Elementary each gave their third- and fourth-grade students pep talks last week in preparation for this week’s MCAS testing.

Students were given test-taking tips to help ease any nervousness, including: Get a good night’s sleep the evening before testing, eat a good breakfast, arrive to school on time, relax and try your best, read and follow directions carefully, and never skip a question — choose the best answer.

Minot Forest Elementary held a special rally, which included a step-dancing performance and students’ peers cheering them on through the hallways.