Homeschooling in South Dakota is a popular education choice, as the department of education gives parents flexibility, freedom, and control of their child’s education. Homeschool families can create a learning plan based on the child’s capabilities, choose the right curriculum, teach at a speed comfortable for the child without worrying about attendance.
In this guide we will cover everything all the information about homeschooling in South Dakota that you need to know about, including homeschooling laws, curriculum requirements, support groups, online homeschool programs, and enrollment steps .
Quick Takeaways
- Homeschooling in South Dakota is fully legal, but parents must notify their local school district to begin a homeschool in the state of South Dakota.
- South Dakota homeschool laws require teaching Language Arts and Mathematics, but there is no need for special teaching certificates for the parents or standardized tests for homeschooled students.
- Compared to most states, South Dakota is considered one of the most homeschool-friendly ones and homeschooling families can choose independent homeschool, extracurricular groups, or online programs.
Why Families Choose Homeschool in South Dakota
Homeschooling is a popular choice in South Dakota and many families enroll in this educational structure, as the state has simple legal requirements instead of rigor laws and allows parents to take full responsibility for their child’s education.
Most parents choose homeschooling because it offers flexible schedules, customized curriculum options, private instruction, safe learning environment and, of course, strong family involvement.
South Dakota Homeschool Laws
Before getting started with homeschooling, parents must understand South Dakota’s state requirements.
Legal Requirements for Homeschooling and Homeschooling Laws
Education requirements for parents who decide to homeschool their children in South Dakota is very few and simple.
First, parents who decide to homeschool South Dakota must notify the local school district.
Second, families in South Dakota are responsible for teaching required subjects.
Third, a new notification form must be submitted every time the family is moving districts.
Last but not least, no one can homeschool more than 22 children.
The state does not require special teaching qualifications for parents, standardized testing or proof of immunization for homeschoolers.
To learn about changes and new requirements and to get extra help with legal advice, parents can always review official state guidance and consult legal resources if needed.
Required Subjects in South Dakota Homeschool Programs
As part of South Dakota laws homeschool programs must include at minimum 2 subjects: Language Arts and Mathematics.
Many families also include in the curriculum other subjects taught in the public schools, like science, history, PE, English language, social studies.
A well-rounded online curriculum prepares students for college and future careers.
Choosing the Right Homeschool Curriculum
Selecting the right homeschool curriculum is one of the most important steps for the success of the child. Parents are responsible for making the write choice. Here are few options they can consider: traditional textbook-based curriculum, faith-based homeschool curriculum, secular programs, project-based learning materials, online homeschool programs.
When choosing a curriculum, consider your child’s unique learning style, long-term academic goals, accreditation (which is especially important for the homeschooler college planning), budget and time requirements.
The best homeschool curriculum is one that keeps students engaged and motivated during the coursework.
Legacy Online School as Alternative Instruction for South Dakota Families
Accredited Online Homeschool Option
Legacy Online Schoolprovides k-12 accredited online homeschool programs for elementary, middle, and high school students. The school offers structured curriculum, certified teachers, valuable resources, and flexible scheduling for families who want professional academic support while homeschooling in South Dakota.
Legacy Online School helps families combine freedom with expert guidance, making it easier to meet academic goals at every grade level, and track progress when needed.
Homeschool Field Trips and Co-Ops in South Dakota
Homeschooling does not mean being fully isolated and alone. South Dakota has many homeschool communities and co-ops, which motivate students to participate in different activities with their peers and provide homeschool support.
Homeschool Co-Ops
Co-ops allow families to share teaching responsibilities and organize group classes, field trips, science labs and other social activities. With this kind of homeschool groups in South Dakota students build friendships and teamwork skills.
Field Trips in South Dakota
South Dakota offers excellent educational experiences outside the home. Popular homeschool field trip destinations are Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Badlands National Park, South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre. This is productive way for homeschooled children to participate in nature studies, wildlife observation, gardening projects. This type of hands-on learning helps homeschool students connect academic subjects to real life.
