Homeschooling in South Dakota
South Dakota
Explore Homeschooling helps you take an overview look at homeschooling requirements and guidelines in South Dakota. South Dakota favors detailed and organized homeschool record keeping. Other homeschool requirements occur occasionally and vary as your student ages. While only two subjects are required by the state, it is recommended that you teach subjects commonly taught in public schools for a well balanced education. The South Dakota Badlands are known as the “playground” of the dinosaur. The Badlands National Park is full of fossils that will fascinate students interested in paleontology.
Snapshot of Requirements
Complexity
With some degree of reporting and accountability required, South Dakota ranks as a moderately challenging state to homeschool in.Teaching
South Dakota does not have requirements for any kind of teaching certification. Instruction in language arts and math is required. You must teach for a time period equivalent to your local public school. No single individual is permitted to homeschool more than 22 children at a time.Testing
Your student must take a standardized test in grades 4, 8, and 11. Results must be turned in to your local school district.
Registration
In South Dakota, you will need to annually file a two-party witnessed or notarized intent to homeschool with a local school official.Grade Level
Homeschooling is allowed in all grades. South Dakota requires children between the ages of 5 and 18 to be schooled.Reporting
South Dakota requires that you "keep good records." Records should show evidence of progress and how many days of instruction were provided. It is recommended that you keep a copy of all standardized testing results on file. Your records may be viewed by the secretary of education with written notice.
Advice For Homeschooling In South Dakota
Strive for excellence in homeschooling by creating a mission statement, setting annual progress goals, and using external rubrics for measuring academic success. Remember to sign and submit your annual intent to homeschool form, witnessed by two parties or notarized before filing. Keep good records throughout the year. Utilize a planner or other form of attendance tracker to show proof of a public school equivalent instruction period.
QUICK FACTS
Over 10,000 students homeschool in the Mount Rushmore state of South Dakota!
South Dakota has an array of co-ops and tutorials for the homeschoolers!
South Dakota parents have had the right to homeschool since 1970.
Explore Homeschooling Community Kindness Ideas
Looking for field trip ideas? Follow the link below to explore how to use field trips as a platform for acts of kindness in your community.
FOCUS THIS MONTH
History Museums
Do you ever wonder if your field trips are effective? With this download, you'll learn how to plan a history field trip, what to take along with you, and how to follow up on the trip with activities to reinforce learning. We've also included activity worksheets to use while on the field trip to help you make the most of your hands-on history exploration!
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Nature Study
How do you handle nature studies when nature isn't your thing? You find help! This download defines and describes nature studies, provides a list of materials you need, offers practical ideas for implementing a nature study, and includes a book list for reinforcement. We've even included worksheets to guide you each step of the way.
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Aquariums & Zoos
Zoos and aquariums are always fun to visit. But, with a little extra time and energy investment, you can turn your visit into an academically enriching activity! In this download, you'll find tips for planning your trip well, activities to complete during your visit, follow-up activities discussion guides, and a list of books to reinforce what your students have learned.
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Libraries
Did you know that you can turn something as simple as a trip to the library into a delightful field trip? In this download, you'll learn how to lay the groundwork for a fun trip, discover all of the exciting ways to enjoy a library visit, and find age-appropriate follow-up activities.
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Historical Sites
Historical sites bring history to life in amazing ways. With so many options available, it might feel overwhelming to try to plan a trip. This month's download is here to help! Find tips for planning, carrying out, and following up on a historical site visit—then get ready to enjoy!
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Outdoor Family Fun
A summer break from formal curriculum is a healthy and good thing. But, you can still keep your child learning, even during the break! In this e-book, you'll find tips for ways to combine summer learning and summer fun.
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Art Museums
Do you ever wonder if the things you and your students experience on a field trip really stick? Sometimes the simple act of asking targeted questions, turning the field trip into a game, or encouraging your students to take notes can make all the difference. In this Art Museum Activity E-Book, you'll find tips, activity suggestions, and printables to help you make the most of your next art museum field trip. Download your e-book today, and start planning your trip with confidence!
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Community Kindness
Have you heard of the Random Acts of Kindness movement (RAK)? That's what this month's field trip focus is all about!
In this Community Kindness Activity Guide, you'll find suggestions for showing kindness to people in your community. You'll also discover volunteer options for every stage of learning. Download your e-book today, and start planning your RAK fun!
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My Town
How much do you know about your town? Notebooking can be a great way to process through learning about your city or town! In this My Town Activity E-Book, you'll find suggestions for completing notebooking activities to help you learn about both the geography and history of your community, town, or city. When you complete all of the research, you can add a cover and use a binder or folder to create a lasting version of your exploration!
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Indoor Field Trips & Factories
Do you ever wonder if the things you and your students experience on a field trip really stick? Sometimes the simple act of asking targeted questions, turning the field trip into a game, or encouraging your students to take notes can make all the difference. In this Factory Activity E-Book, you'll find tips, activity suggestions, and printables to help you make the most of your next indoor field trip, with a special focus on factories of all kinds. Download your e-book today, and start planning your trip with confidence!
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Holiday Crafts & Recipes
No matter what the holiday, there are always fun ways to celebrate through crafts and cooking! In this Holiday Crafts & Recipes Activity E-Book, you'll find a wealth of craft options for all ages, as well as recipes you can whip up together. Use the results of your creativity to decorate your home, brighten the day of a friend, or even show appreciation to the people who serve your town or community!
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Science Museum
Do you ever wonder if the things you and your students experience on a field trip really stick? Sometimes the simple act of asking targeted questions, turning the field trip into a game, or encouraging your students to take notes can make all the difference. In this Science Museum Activity E-Book, you'll find tips, activity suggestions, and printables to help you make the most of your next science museum field trip. Download your e-book today, and start planning your trip with confidence!