Guide to Homeschooling in South Dakota

Resources

South Dakota Homeschool Laws and Requirements

Understanding the homeschooling laws in South Dakota is vital to ensuring that you follow all state regulations. These regulations are in place to guarantee that homeschooled children are receiving an adequate education. Each state has its own specific set of requirements that both parents and students must meet.

While laws in each state differ, some of the most common requirements include a compulsory school attendance age, education minimums for homeschooling parents, minimum number of school days per year, and other rules. Some states also have rules in place about withdrawing children from public or private schools.

While not all states require a formal withdraw from public or private schools, it is a good idea to do so to ensure that your child isn’t considered truant, which could lead to legal troubles.

RECORD KEEPING

Keeping detailed records is an important part of homeschooling. While not all states require record-keeping, we always recommend that parents keep records of at least their child’s curriculum, attendance, sample assignments, and other documents that could be necessary in the event of a move, re-enrollment in a public or private school, or changing laws in the state.

Our online parent portal lets parents easily download any documents that they may need to prove that they are following laws in the state in which they live. The parent portal is separate from the student portal, but both can be accessed through the Acellus app.

SOUTH DAKOTA STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENTS

For some homeschooling families, standardized tests are a way to ensure that children are on track for their grade levels. However, in some states, standardized assessments are not optional. Required standardized testing is put in place to make sure that students are meeting benchmarks no matter how they receive their education. Make sure you know if these tests are a requirement before starting your homeschool journey.

SOUTH DAKOTA HOMESCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Parents are responsible for setting homeschool graduation requirements as long as they are in accordance with the state’s regulations. To set your student up for success, it is a good idea to talk about long-term plans early. This way, you can tailor the curriculum to your student’s college, technical school, or job for post-graduation.

Parents are free to issue diplomas themselves once graduation requirements have been met.

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:

• Our Way of Learning
• West River Christian Homeschoolers Facebook Group
• Sioux Empire Christian Home Educators (SECHE)
• Coteau Area Christian Home Educators (CACHE)
• Living Legacy Academy
• Sioux Metro Area Social Homeschools (SMASH)
• Black Hills Homeschool Association

Check out our Power Homeschool Parent Support groups!

• 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.