Hours / Days
No specific requirement
State Code
SD
Subjects
2 required
Filing Requirements
Certificate of Enrollment
Within 30 days of beginningFile with state or local school district. Simple one-time initial filing.
How to Comply with South Dakota's Homeschool Law
Step-by-step instructions to start homeschooling legally in South Dakota
Legal Classification
Alternative Instruction (Home Schooling)
Compulsory Education Ages
6-18
Steps to Get Started
File Alternative Instruction Notification
Submit the Alternative Instruction Notification form to your local school district or the South Dakota Department of Education within 30 days of beginning homeschooling. This form establishes that your child is receiving education outside the traditional school system.
- Complete the online notification at the SD Department of Education website or use the paper form
- Include your child's name, date of birth, and parents' information
- Specify the start date of your homeschooling program
- Submit electronically or by mail to your school district
- Request a confirmation receipt when filed
Filing online is fastest and provides immediate confirmation of receipt.
Teach Required Subjects
South Dakota requires instruction in at least the basic skills of language arts and mathematics. These are the only two mandated subjects. You have complete freedom to add other subjects and design your curriculum.
- Language arts includes reading, writing, speaking, and listening
- Mathematics can be any curriculum at your child's level
- Add any other subjects you choose—science, history, arts, physical education, etc.
- Integrate subjects through unit studies or teach separately as you prefer
South Dakota's minimal subject requirements provide maximum flexibility for custom-designed education.
Schedule Instruction and Maintain Records
South Dakota has no required minimum hours or instructional days. You can structure your schedule however works best for your family. Keep simple records documenting the instruction provided.
- There are no hour or day minimums—set your own pace
- Track attendance or instructional time informally
- Document subjects covered and learning activities
- Keep records at home for your own organization
The flexibility in scheduling is ideal for families who want to design their own learning pace and rhythm.
No Testing or Assessment Required
South Dakota does not require standardized testing, formal assessments, or evaluation of homeschooled students. However, if your child is enrolled part-time in public school (the 50% rule), different requirements may apply.
While testing isn't required, many families use assessments informally to track progress and identify learning needs.
Maintain Work Samples and Learning Evidence
While not legally required, maintaining a portfolio of your child's work helps you track progress and document educational activity. This also helps if you ever need to demonstrate that education is occurring.
- Save completed assignments, projects, and work samples
- Keep tests or assessments you administer (optional)
- Document field trips, classes, and educational activities attended
- Take photos of hands-on learning and projects
Update Notification if Circumstances Change
If you move to a different school district, enroll your child in public or private school, or stop homeschooling, notify your school district in writing. This keeps your records accurate and avoids confusion about your child's status.
Keeping your school district informed helps maintain positive relationships and ensures accurate enrollment records.
Withdrawing from School
If your child was previously in South Dakota public school, file your Alternative Instruction Notification and begin homeschooling. No formal withdrawal process is needed. If you later re-enroll in public school, contact the school's enrollment office.
Public School Access
South Dakota allows some flexibility for homeschoolers to participate in public school offerings. Contact your school district to ask about sports, extracurricular activities, or dual enrollment opportunities that may be available.
Special Education
South Dakota allows families with students who have special needs to provide alternative instruction at home. If your child has previously qualified for special education services, coordinate with your district about any services you want to maintain.
Recordkeeping Best Practices
- Keep a simple log or calendar noting instructional days or learning activities
- Create subject folders with samples of work from each subject area
- Save receipts for curriculum and educational materials purchased
- Document field trips, museum visits, and classes attended
- Maintain informal progress notes or observations about your child's learning
Required Subjects
Assessment Requirements
No state-mandated testing for homeschool students. The 50% public school rule is about dual enrollment: if your child attends public school more than 50% of the day, standardized testing is required as part of that school's requirements, not a homeschool requirement.
Record Keeping
No time, portfolio, or record requirements.
Key Facts About South Dakota
Very flexible state
22-student maximum per instructor
Full extracurricular access allowed
Testing only if dual-enrolled >50%
Ages 6-18
“Every family's homeschool journey in South Dakota is unique. Pavved helps you navigate yours with confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Certificate of Enrollment require?
The certificate is a simple form providing student names and basic homeschool information filed within 30 days of beginning.
Are there many subject requirements?
Minimally. South Dakota requires language arts and math at a minimum. You have substantial freedom in other subjects.
Can my child be dual-enrolled in public school?
Yes, but if enrolled more than 50% of the day, you must administer standardized testing.
Can my child do sports and clubs?
Yes. South Dakota allows homeschooled students full extracurricular access with few restrictions.
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