Homeschooling in South Dakota
Here are some useful resources that may be helpful as you are getting started.
Power Homeschool’s Homeschooling in South Dakota site highlights resources, helpful tips, support groups, and so much more!
Homeschool Laws and Requirements in South Dakota
Each state has different rules regarding a parent’s ability to homeschool their children and all the laws that they must follow.
Homeschool Groups and Support in South Dakota
Some of the best resources to help homeschool families be successful are homeschool associations, support groups, and co-ops.
How to Start Homeschooling in South Dakota
If you have decided that homeschool is a good fit for your family, you are probably wondering how to get started with the whole process.
Field Trips Available to Homeschoolers in South Dakota
The flexibility to go on more field trips is one of the many perks of homeschooling.
Find out what South Dakota has to offer!
Resources
South Dakota Homeschool Laws and Requirements
Many states have rules and guidelines regarding parents homeschooling their children. Here are some links to help you find information regarding South Dakota.
Important Considerations for Homeschooling Success
Create a Study Plan
When homeschooling in South Dakota, it is important to establish a clean environment where distractions are limited for your child to study on a regular schedule. Study routines are valuable for learning discipline. They also help your child stay on track with weekly, monthly and yearly academic goals. Create a schedule and expect your child to stick to it. Modify the schedule when necessary to help your child stay challenged while still able to achieve your expectations.
Read more: 10 Tips to Effectively Homeschool Online
Build Foundational Knowledge
As your child progresses in their studies, addressing gaps in their foundational knowledge will be crucial to their future success. For example, if your child struggles with basic math, it may become nearly impossible for them to master more advanced math concepts until they get help with their basic math challenges. In Acellus courses, Vectored Instruction automatically takes into account a student’s existing knowledge gaps and provides targeted interventions to bridge those gaps. If a student lacks the foundational understanding required for the new concept, the system automatically provides relevant remedial content before proceeding further.
It is crucial that students achieve early success with online learning so that their confidence will grow. Sometimes it may be necessary to place your child into an earlier course so they can begin experiencing success before they are ready to start moving forward with their learning.
Read more: Helping Your Student Excel in Acellus
KEEP RECORDS AND DOCUMENTATION
You should keep thorough records of your child’s education. This will be beneficial when they apply for colleges or jobs after high school. Power Homeschool’s online parent portal automatically makes it easy to track progress, download coursework examples, attendance, and keep transcripts of classes taken.
It is also a good idea to get student ID cards and parent/teacher ID cards. Many retailers and venues offer teacher or student discounts that can be claimed by showing ID cards. A professional student ID card with a good quality identification photo included is also an good way to show that your student is enrolled is a reputable homeschool program.
Resources
Homeschool Support & Groups in South Dakota
Homeschooling associations offer families valuable resources and an incredible amount of support. In South Dakota, the South Dakota Christian Home Educators (SDCHE) is a free homeschool organization that works to help homeschooling families with teaching, while also advocating for homeschooling across the state.
Co-ops are academic-focused groups that often offer learning opportunities to families in their communities. These supplemental classes allow for socialization and educational enrichment. Often, homeschooling parents take turns teaching these classes.
Here are a few options for support groups in South Dakota:
Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!
How to Start Homeschooling in SOUTH Dakota
It is never easy to start homeschooling. You are bound to have a few hang-ups along the way, but using our guide will help you start on the right path. Families looking to homeschool in South Dakota first need to know the laws associated with the task.
Power Homeschool is an online K-12 curriculum with a variety of courses to choose from. In addition to these courses, our program offers tools and resources to help new homeschoolers transition to at-home learning.
Resources
Homeschool Field Trips in South Dakota
Each state has a variety of field trip options that allow students to learn outside the classroom. Here are a few ideas for field trips in South Dakota.
- South Dakota State Capitol Building in Pierre: The historical capitol building is known for its ornate design. Tour the building to learn about the history of the building and the state.
- Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls: The Washington Pavilion is the perfect outing for curious kids. There are interactive exhibits in both art and science categories that suit a variety of ages.
- Laura Ingall’s Homestead in De Smet: Visit the Laura Ingall’s Homestead to learn about pioneer life and history. Your children can visit an old one-room schoolhouse, make crafts, and drive a pong cart.
- Mammoth Site in Hot Springs: Look at ice age fossils that are considered some of the best on the planet. While learning about ancient animal species, you can also make your own fossil imprint.
- National Music Museum in Vermillion: The National Music Museum is the perfect place for instrument players and music lovers. There are more than 13,000 instruments from all over the world in this museum.
- South Dakota Air and Space Museum: Learn about the history of aviation and view military missiles and aircraft. This is the perfect outing to go along with history and science lessons.
- Bramble Park Zoo in Watertown: This zoo is home to more than 500 different animal species. In addition to seeing a variety of animals, you can also join scientific programs and learn even more about the wonders of wildlife.
- Big Thunder Gold Mine in Keystone: This gold mine was established in the 1880s, which makes it ripe with history. Explore the area, learn about the mining trade, and pan for gold and gems for a fun, unique afternoon.
- Cosmos Mystery Area in Rapid City: Explore various scientific principals at the Cosmos Mystery Area. Your child can explore the geode mine, watch a ball roll UP hill, and learn by playing.
We hope this handy guide provides homeschool parents with the resources and information they need to get started with homeschooling in South Dakota. If you have any questions about Power Homeschool’s online curriculum, contact us today!
Disclaimer: The information provided on this web page is for general information purposes only. The information provided does not constitute legal advice and may not contain the most up-to-date information.
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