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Want to learn how to homeschool in South Dakota? In my experience helping families navigate homeschool laws across all 50 states, the Mount Rushmore State is among the most homeschool-friendly in America. Simply file once, then teach language arts and math. Best of all, no testing is required. After more than a decade of tracking homeschool legislation, I can confirm that South Dakota offers exceptional freedom. Consequently, this guide covers everything you need to start.
In addition, if you’re comparing state requirements, check our guides for North Carolina, California, and Georgia.
Why Homeschool in South Dakota?
Indeed, South Dakota offers outstanding benefits for homeschool families:
- One-time filing – File once and you’re set for life
- No testing – Zero standardized test requirements
- Sports access – Public school sports by law
- Free textbooks – Borrow from local districts
- Dual credit – Free college courses for teens
- Minimal subjects – Only language arts and math required
- Flexible scheduling – No minimum hours or days required
- Low cost – Free textbooks help stretch your budget
South Dakota respects homeschool families. Consequently, the state trusts parents to educate their children. Therefore, you won’t deal with inspections or portfolio reviews. Instead, just file once and teach your way. In my experience, this hands-off approach gives families the freedom to customize education for each child’s unique needs.
The community here is welcoming too. For instance, you’ll find co-ops in most cities. Additionally, families help each other share resources and advice. Moreover, the state’s natural beauty provides amazing learning opportunities. From the Badlands to Mount Rushmore, your classroom is everywhere.
South Dakota Homeschool Laws at a Glance
According to South Dakota Codified Laws (SDCL 13-27-3), South Dakota is one of the best states for homeschooling. Based on my extensive research into state regulations and compliance requirements, you get lots of freedom with very little red tape. Basically, just file once and then teach language arts and math. That’s it!
There are no tests required. Additionally, there’s no curriculum approval needed. Moreover, there are no minimum hours specified. Clearly, the state trusts parents to teach their kids.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Status | Legal under SDCL 13-27-3 |
| Compulsory Ages | 5-18 years old (must start before age 7 by Sept 1) |
| Notification Required | Yes, one-time filing (within 30 days of starting) |
| Subjects Required | Language arts and mathematics (minimum) |
| Teacher Qualifications | None required |
| Testing Required | None |
| Hours/Days Required | None specified |
| Record Keeping | None required |
| Free Textbooks | Yes, from local school district |
| Public School Activities | Yes, by law |
Step-by-Step: How to Start Homeschooling in South Dakota
After helping hundreds of families begin their homeschool journey, I’ve developed this clear process for South Dakota. Fortunately, starting to homeschool here is easy. Therefore, follow these steps to get going.
Step 1: Find Your School District
First, figure out which school district you live in. You need this info for your paperwork. Therefore, use the state’s online map tool to locate your district. Simply enter your home address to find your district. (Note that PO boxes won’t work here.)
Step 2: Fill Out the Notification Form
Next, fill out the Alternative Instruction Notification. Then, send it to the South Dakota DOE. You can complete this online or mail a paper form. Specifically, the form asks for:
- Child’s name
- Child’s birth date
- Your resident school district
- Open enrollment district (if applicable)
- Parent/guardian signature
Step 3: Submit Within 30 Days
After completing the form, send it within 30 days of starting to homeschool. Remember, this deadline matters! You can send it to the DOE or your local school district. Either option works perfectly.
Step 4: Start Teaching
Once you file your form, you can start teaching right away. In other words, there’s no need to wait for approval. Simply file and go!
Step 5: Update Only When Things Change
Here’s good news! You only file once per child. However, update your form only if you:
- Move to a new school district
- Put your child in public or private school
- Stop homeschooling
If any of these situations occur, file an update within 30 days.
Required Subjects in South Dakota
Fortunately, South Dakota keeps it simple. As a result, you only have to teach two subjects:
- Language Arts – Reading, writing, and English skills
- Math – Basic math at your child’s level
That’s the law. Essentially, teach reading, writing, and math. Beyond that? Teach whatever you want! Notably, most families add more subjects. Nevertheless, the choice is entirely yours.
What This Freedom Means
Interestingly, South Dakota doesn’t require these subjects:
- Science
- History
- PE or health
- Art or music
Of course, most families teach these anyway. But ultimately, you decide! This freedom lets you create the perfect education for your child.
No Testing Requirements
Importantly, no tests are required! South Dakota doesn’t make homeschoolers take state tests. Instead, you decide how to check your child’s progress.
However, there’s one exception: If your child attends public school more than half the day, they must take state tests. But full-time homeschoolers are completely exempt.
Ways to Track Progress (Optional)
Although not required, many families use these methods:
- Portfolios – Save work samples all year
- Observation – Watch and talk with your child
- Optional tests – Try Iowa Basic Skills or CAT tests
- Curriculum tests – Use tests that come with your books
No Record Keeping Requirements
Similarly, no records are required! The state doesn’t ask you to keep specific paperwork. Nevertheless, keeping records is still smart:
- Tracks your child’s progress
- Helps with college applications
- Proves you’re teaching if asked
- Makes planning easier
What to Keep (Your Choice)
In particular, these records help many families:
- Lesson plans and curriculum lists
- Work samples from each subject
- Books read and projects done
- Grades or progress notes
- Simple attendance log
- High school transcripts
No Hour or Day Requirements
Likewise, there are no minimum hours or days required! As a result, you can teach on your own schedule. This flexibility lets you:
- Pick hours that work for your family
- School year-round or take summers off
- Jump on learning chances when they pop up
- Go fast or slow based on your child
Without a doubt, this freedom is a huge plus for South Dakota homeschoolers!
Public School Access for Homeschoolers
Furthermore, here’s great news: South Dakota law lets homeschoolers join public school activities. This is indeed a big deal!
Activities You Can Join
Specifically, by law, your school district must let homeschoolers join:
- Sports – Football, basketball, track, all sports
- Fine arts – Band, choir, drama, art class
- Clubs – Organizations and school events
- State activities – Anything through the SD High School Activities Association
Importantly, districts can’t say no. State law requires them to let you participate!
Part-Time Classes
Additionally, you can also take some classes at the public school. This option works great for:
- Advanced math or foreign language
- Lab science classes
- Career and tech programs
- Special programs
To get started, call your local school to set this up.
Free Textbooks
Even better, South Dakota schools must lend textbooks to homeschoolers for free. Your kids (ages 5-19) can borrow them. Simply call your district’s office to ask about availability.
Dual Credit: College While Homeschooling
Meanwhile, high schoolers can take college classes for cheap! South Dakota offers dual credit at state colleges. Here’s how to get started:
- Make sure your notification is on file
- Sign a form (MOU) with the DOE
- Enroll at your chosen college
Consequently, your teen earns college credits while still homeschooling. This approach saves both time and money later!
Class Size Limits
There’s one rule to know: Maximum 22 students per teacher. Primarily, this matters for co-ops. However, regular families won’t hit this limit.
Leaving Public School to Homeschool
Are you planning to pull your child from public school? Here’s how to make the transition:
- File your notification with the DOE or district
- Tell the school in writing you’re leaving
- Get your child’s records and transcripts
- Return any school books or devices
- Do all this within 30 days
That’s all there is to it! Once you file, your homeschool is completely legal.
High School and Graduation
Ultimately, you control your teen’s high school education. First, you create the transcripts. Then, you issue the diploma. Most importantly, colleges accept both.
Creating Transcripts
As the educator, you create your student’s transcript. Be sure to include:
- Course titles and grades
- Credits earned
- GPA
- SAT or ACT scores
- Activities and awards
Homeschool Diplomas
Similarly, you issue your child’s diploma. Importantly, this is perfectly normal. In fact, colleges readily accept parent-issued diplomas from homeschools.
College Preparation
Encouragingly, South Dakota homeschoolers get into great colleges. To prepare effectively:
- Take the SAT or ACT
- Build strong transcripts
- Use dual credit courses
- Document activities
- Get recommendation letters
Above all, start college prep early. Additionally, build relationships with mentors who can write recommendations. Interestingly, many homeschoolers excel in college because they’ve learned to work independently.
Special Situations
Special Needs
Notably, homeschooling works wonderfully for special needs students. First, you set the pace and choose the methods. Furthermore, you can tailor everything to your child’s unique needs. As a result, South Dakota’s minimal requirements give you maximum flexibility.
While public school services aren’t available to homeschoolers, many families find success with private therapists and specialized curriculum. Remember, you know your child best. Therefore, trust yourself to find what works.
Military Families
Are you moving frequently? If so, homeschooling provides wonderful stability. South Dakota’s one-time filing makes transitions easy. Simply update your form when you arrive, and your child’s education continues uninterrupted.
Tips for New Homeschoolers
If you’re just starting out, here’s valuable advice from experienced families:
- Start simple – Don’t overcomplicate your first year
- Join a group – Connect with other homeschoolers right away
- Use the library – Free books save money
- Stay flexible – Change what isn’t working
- Trust yourself – You can do this
Undoubtedly, the first year is a learning curve. Give yourself grace during this time. Eventually, things get easier with practice. By year two, you’ll find your rhythm.
South Dakota Homeschool Resources
State Organizations
- South Dakota Department of Education – Forms and official info
- HSLDA South Dakota – Legal help and support
- FAIRSD – State homeschool group
Support Groups
To connect with local homeschool families, explore these options:
- Sioux Falls area groups
- Rapid City groups
- Regional co-ops
- Church-based groups
- Facebook groups
Co-ops and Classes
Consider joining other families for these enriching activities:
- Group classes
- Science labs
- Art and music
- PE and sports
- Field trips
Local Resources
Best of all, South Dakota offers amazing learning opportunities. Be sure to take advantage of these valuable resources:
- Public libraries – Free books, programs, and digital resources
- Mount Rushmore – American history comes alive here
- Badlands National Park – Geology and wildlife studies
- Crazy Horse Memorial – Native American history and culture
- State museums – History, science, and art exhibits
Truly, your state is your classroom. Field trips here are unforgettable. Additionally, many sites offer homeschool days with special programs and discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to file paperwork every year in South Dakota?
No, you don’t need to file annually. Simply file once per child, and that’s it. Only file again if you move, put your child in school, or stop homeschooling.
Can my homeschooled child play sports at the local high school?
Absolutely yes! State law mandates that public schools must let homeschoolers play sports and join activities. It’s your legal right.
Do I need a teaching degree to homeschool in South Dakota?
No degree is needed whatsoever. Similarly, no certificate is required. Likewise, no training is necessary. In short, any parent can teach their own kids at home.
What subjects am I required to teach?
Only two subjects are required: language arts and math. Beyond that, however, you’re free to teach whatever you want.
Are there any testing requirements?
None at all. Indeed, South Dakota doesn’t make homeschoolers test. While you can test if you want, it’s certainly not required.
Can I get free textbooks?
Yes, absolutely. By law, your school district must lend textbooks to homeschoolers for free. Therefore, just call and ask about availability.
Summary: South Dakota Homeschool Requirements
To sum up, here are the key points you need to remember about homeschooling in South Dakota:
- Compulsory attendance ages 5-18 (must start before age 7)
- One-time notification filing (within 30 days of starting)
- Teach required subjects (language arts and math only)
- No standardized testing required
- No minimum hours or days specified
- Free textbooks available from local districts
- Guaranteed public school sports access by law
- Dual credit college courses available for teens
Start Your South Dakota Homeschool Journey Today
In conclusion, South Dakota makes homeschooling remarkably easy. File once, teach two subjects, skip the tests, and access public school sports. That’s the deal! In my assessment of all 50 states, South Dakota consistently ranks among the top states for homeschool freedom.
Here’s your quick start plan to begin today:
- Find your school district online
- File your form within 30 days
- Teach language arts and math
- Get free textbooks from your district
- Join local homeschool groups
Overall, the rules are simple, and the freedom is huge. Welcome to homeschooling in South Dakota!
Related State Guides
If you’re looking at neighboring states, check out these helpful guides:
- How to Homeschool in North Dakota – Moderate regulations with testing requirements
- How to Homeschool in Minnesota – Annual reporting with flexible options
- How to Homeschool in Montana – Low regulation similar to South Dakota
- How to Homeschool in Iowa – Multiple pathways available
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