South Dakota Homeschool State Laws

Please note that laws and regulations may have changed since this update, so it’s always important to consult the latest information from the official sources or a legal professional.
In South Dakota, homeschooling is considered to be a type of private schooling. The relevant laws that govern homeschooling in the state are found in the South Dakota Codified Laws (SDCL) 13-27 and administrative rules 24:43:03:01-05.

• Declaration of Intent: Parents or guardians who choose to homeschool their children in South Dakota must file a “Notification for Public School Exemption” with the local school district. This form declares the intent to provide homeschool education and must be submitted annually by August 15th or within 15 days of starting homeschooling.
• Required Subjects: Homeschooling parents in South Dakota must provide instruction in the basic skills of reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. There are no specific curriculum requirements, allowing parents flexibility in choosing instructional materials and methods.
• Teacher Qualifications: Parents or legal guardians who homeschool their children in South Dakota do not need to meet any specific teacher qualifications or hold teaching certificates.
• Standardized Testing: Homeschooled students in South Dakota are not required to undergo standardized testing.
• Assessment: The local school district has the right to request an annual assessment of the homeschooled student’s progress. The assessment can be performed by a certified teacher or other qualified individual agreed upon by the parent and the school district. The results of the assessment must be shared with the school district, but the specific scores or evaluation details are not required.
• Access to Public School Programs: Homeschooled students in South Dakota may be allowed to participate in certain public school programs such as extracurricular activities, sports, or dual enrollment. The eligibility and participation requirements vary by school district, so it’s important to check with the local district for specific guidelines.

It is recommended to review the South Dakota Department of Education’s website or contact the local school district to get the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding homeschooling laws and requirements in the state.

Updated October 2023