If you're thinking about homeschooling in South Dakota, you might be wondering how to get started or what exactly the state expects. South Dakota’s homeschool law is relatively straightforward, and families have some freedom in shaping how learning happens.
This article breaks everything down for you, from enrollment paperwork to instruction requirements, while sharing ideas for resources, communities, and personalized support. Along the way, you’ll learn how platforms like Outschool can make your journey even more flexible and engaging.
Homeschooling options in South Dakota
South Dakota offers one clear legal pathway for families who want to educate their children at home: the alternative instruction option under South Dakota Codified Law 13-27-3. This straightforward approach means you won't need to choose between multiple complicated programs or worry about which path fits your family best.
Requirements for homeschooling in South Dakota
Once you’ve decided to homeschool through South Dakota’s alternative instruction path, there are a few important requirements to understand. These include submitting a notification, providing instruction, and meeting certain curriculum guidelines. We’ll go over each of these so you can feel prepared every step of the way.
Enrollment paperwork
The first legal step to homeschool in South Dakota is filing an Alternative Instruction Notification form within 30 days of beginning instruction. You only need to file this once unless your child changes school districts or transitions back into public or private school. The online system makes it easy to notify both the Department of Education and your local school at the same time.
Attendance and instruction
South Dakota takes a hands-off approach when it comes to homeschool scheduling and teacher credentials. You don’t need to be a certified educator, and the law doesn’t impose any specific number of school days or hours. However, if you’re planning on teaching other children, keep in mind that you are limited to instructing no more than 22 students at a time.
Curriculum guidelines
South Dakota keeps the required curriculum pretty simple: your homeschool program must include instruction in language arts and mathematics. The law also specifies that the purpose of this instruction is to help your child gain and strengthen proficiency in the English language. Beyond that, you’re free to build out your curriculum with science, history, or other subjects that fit your family’s educational goals.
Recordkeeping essentials
South Dakota encourages homeschooling families to maintain an organized academic record, even though it's not a formal requirement. Think of it as your child’s educational portfolio: attendance logs, subjects covered, and earned grades should all be part of it. These details will be essential if your child ever joins public school again, applies for scholarships, or takes part in dual credit programs down the line.
Testing and assessments
There’s no mandatory testing for homeschoolers in South Dakota. The state removed this requirement in 2021, so you no longer need to report standardized test scores. Still, if you feel that assessments could help you gauge your child’s learning or support future plans, you can choose to administer them at your own expense.
Homeschool with Outschool
Even with South Dakota’s flexible homeschool laws, having access to quality resources can make a big difference in your day-to-day teaching. Outschool helps you customize your homeschool journey with interactive, engaging options for learners of all ages and interests.
Here’s how Outschool can support your homeschool experience:
- Live online classes in core subjects like math, reading, and science
- Electives in music, coding, art, world languages, and more
- Flexible scheduling with one-time or ongoing class options
- Small-group environments to encourage social interaction
- Supportive tools to help you build a personalized learning plan
- Experienced instructors who bring creativity and depth to every lesson
With these resources at your fingertips, you're ready to build a comprehensive homeschool program that meets both legal requirements and your family's unique goals.
How to get started
Ready to begin your homeschooling journey? South Dakota's streamlined approach makes the transition smooth and manageable. Here are the key steps to launch your educational path with confidence.
- Submit an Alternative Instruction Notification form through the South Dakota Department of Education or your local school district within 30 days of starting.
- Identify your child’s resident school district using your home address. This is required on the notification form.
- Keep a signed copy of your notification for your records, especially if you submit it by paper instead of online.
- Ensure instruction covers language arts and math, which are the only subjects required by law.
- Set up simple recordkeeping, including grades and attendance, to support future enrollment, dual credit, or extracurricular participation.
After that, you’re off to a smooth start and ready to tailor your child’s education to fit your family’s needs.
Find support through homeschool communities in South Dakota
Homeschooling doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Whether you're looking for curriculum tips, co-op classes, or just a chance to meet other families, South Dakota offers a range of inclusive communities ready to welcome you.
Statewide organizations
- South Dakota Homeschool – A Facebook-based group where homeschooling families across the state exchange advice, opportunities, and encouragement.
- South Dakota Unschoolers – A private Facebook group for residents of South Dakota who are unschooling their children. It offers a supportive space to connect, share ideas, and ask questions within a respectful community.
- South Dakota Department of Education – Great place to find official homeschooling information in South Dakota, including the Alternative Instruction notification form, assessment details, and general guidance.
Local groups and co-ops
- Mobridge Area Homeschoolers – A local group that organizes monthly field trips in the Mobridge area. There’s no fee to join, and it’s a relaxed way to connect with other homeschool families nearby.
- Our Way of Learning Homeschool Collective – A secular, inclusive nonprofit serving families in and around Sioux Falls. This member-driven group hosts regular shared activities and events to foster community, support, and friendship among homeschoolers of all backgrounds.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about homeschooling in South Dakota
Starting your homeschooling journey brings up many practical questions about compliance, curriculum, and daily operations. These frequently asked questions about homeschooling in South Dakota address the key topics families explore when designing their educational path and taking charge of their child's learning experience.
What paperwork do I need to file to homeschool in South Dakota?
You need to file an Alternative Instruction Notification with your local school district before beginning homeschooling. This notification is required only once for each child unless your schooling situation changes, making the process straightforward and manageable.
Do I need to use a specific curriculum?
South Dakota gives you complete freedom to choose your curriculum, requiring only that instruction covers basic skills like language arts and mathematics. You can select resources that match your child's learning style and interests, whether that's traditional textbooks, online programs like Outschool classes, or a combination of approaches.
Are homeschoolers required to take standardized tests in South Dakota?
No, South Dakota doesn't require homeschooled students to take standardized tests. You can choose to use assessments for your own tracking purposes or to meet personal educational goals, but testing remains entirely up to you.
Can my homeschooled child participate in public school sports or activities in South Dakota?
Yes. Homeschoolers in South Dakota can join public school activities in their resident district, including athletics, fine arts, and clubs, if they meet the same eligibility requirements as public school students.
What happens if we move or want to re-enroll in public school?
If you move within South Dakota, you'll need to file a new Alternative Instruction Notification with your new local district. For re-enrollment in public school, contact the school directly to discuss the placement process.
Your South Dakota homeschool journey starts here
Homeschooling in South Dakota comes with a fair amount of independence, but it's still important to stay informed and organized. From submitting your notification to understanding recordkeeping and support options, each step helps build a solid foundation for your child’s learning.
If you’re looking for ways to enrich your homeschool experience, Outschool offers thousands of live, online classes for learners of all ages. Whether your child is into writing, science experiments, or interactive history lessons, there’s something to keep them engaged and excited.
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