Why is homeschooling referred to as 'Alternative Instruction' (AI)?

In South Dakota law, the term 'alternative instruction' refers to families who have taken their children's education into their own hands outside a state-accredited school. To become an alternative instruction student, you must file a notification with the state. Currently, the terms homeschooler and alternative instruction student are synonymous.

When should I start homeschooling my kindergartener?

In South Dakota, you can decide whether to start your child in kindergarten when they turn five or six, but they must start before they are seven and cannot start before they are five as of September 1st of that school year. See SDCL 13-27-1.

Can my child leave public school mid-year?

Yes — all you have to do is fill out the notification form and you are officially homeschooling in South Dakota. However, if your child is playing high school sports and you leave the public school program mid-term, your child may lose some athletic eligibility. Please do extensive research on this before filing the notification.

How do I notify the state that I'm homeschooling?

Thanks to Senate Bill 177, this is a very simple process. Visit the SD Department of Education page and use the online portal to enter your child's name, birth date, and resident district. No birth certificates, no affidavits, no personal address required. You only have to do it once per child unless you move or enroll them in an accredited school.

Ok, I notified the school — now what?

South Dakota trusts families to decide what is best for their children. You do not have to be a certified teacher or hold any degree. The only legal requirements are found in SDCL 13-27-3 — that your child is being provided with basic skills in math and language arts. There are no time constraints. You can homeschool 4 days a week, year-round with long breaks, or any schedule that works for your family. Your homeschool does not have to look like public school!

Do I need to keep records or a portfolio?

You are not required to keep any records, though we strongly recommend doing so. Good record-keeping includes attendance, subjects taught, curriculum used, and a portfolio of student work. This is especially valuable for high school students who will need transcripts for college admission or athletic eligibility.

Does my child need to take a standardized test?

No — since the passage of SB 177 in 2021, there are no longer standardized test requirements for homeschool students, unless they have partial enrollment in a public school of 50% or more. If your child is interested in college, check whether their target school requires the SAT, ACT, CLT, or other exams.

Can my child play sports and participate in activities at the local school?

Yes! Thanks to SB 177, all homeschool children have the right to participate in any school-sanctioned activities and sports without having to take classes (unless that activity requires a class, like choir). You must follow all school eligibility policies. The school may require the previous semester's transcripts showing your child passed 4 classes including Language Arts and Math.

Can my child take some classes (partial enrollment) at the local school?

Yes! Simply call the school and let them know you would like to sign up for part-time classes. Be aware that if your child attends more than 50% of the day they may be obligated to take standardized tests, and you may be asked to provide standard enrollment paperwork.

Can I put my child back into public school after homeschooling?

In elementary and middle school this is generally straightforward. In high school (sophomore–senior year) it becomes more complicated — many public schools will refuse to accept homeschool coursework even from nationally accredited sources. If graduating on time with a public school diploma is important to you, contact your local school early to understand their policies.

Can my child open enroll to a different school district for activities or classes?

Yes. SDCL 13-38-41 specifically grants homeschool students the right to change districts. The new district may NOT require your student to take classes in order to play sports or participate in activities. The only way a district can deny an application is if the school is overcrowded — and even then, if your student is not seeking classes, they cannot deny it. High school athletic eligibility does not always follow open enrollment — verify through the SDHSAA eligibility guidelines.

Can my child enroll in dual credit courses in SD college programs?

Yes. While most public schools cover the cost of dual enrollment for their students, homeschoolers must pay out of pocket. Visit sdmylife.com for more information on dual credit options in South Dakota.

What does my child need to graduate? Can they go to college?

As a homeschool teacher, you decide what your child needs to graduate and issue your own diploma. Most colleges and universities in the United States happily accept homeschool diplomas and actively recruit homeschool students — just ensure your transcript meets their admission prerequisites.

Getting Started in SD

Deciding to homeschool is a big step, but you don't have to do it alone. South Dakota is a wonderful state for homeschooling. Here is your step-by-step guide to beginning this rewarding journey.

Step 1: Understand the Law

Under SDCL 13-27-3 and SDCL 13-27-7, parents who choose to homeschool must file a one-time Alternative Instruction Notification (AIN) with either the SD Department of Education or their local school district. South Dakota does not require teacher certification or standardized testing.

Key Requirements:

One-Time Notification (AIN) — only needs to be re-filed if you move to a different district
Core Subjects: Language Arts and Mathematics
English Language Requirement: instruction must lead to mastery of English
No Teacher Certification Required
No Standardized Testing Requirement

Educational Recommendations

While not required by law, many South Dakota families also include the following subjects to provide a well-rounded education:

• Science
• Social Studies
• History
• Health
• Fine Arts
• Foreign Language

One of the great joys of homeschooling is the freedom to tailor your child's education to their unique interests, strengths, and goals. You know your child best!

Step 2: Choose Curriculum

You are completely free to choose the curriculum, materials, and teaching methods that best fit your child's learning style. Whether you prefer classical, Charlotte Mason, unschooling, or a traditional textbook approach, the choice is yours.

A great place to browse free resources is Freedom Homeschooling. Consider attending our annual conference to see many curriculum options in person and learn the ways your child might learn best!

Step 3: Find Your Community

Homeschooling doesn't mean being isolated! South Dakota has a vibrant, growing network of over 40 local co-ops, support groups, and field trip clubs. Getting involved will provide socialization, shared learning experiences, and vital encouragement for parents.

Common Questions Answered

Everything you need to know before and after you begin homeschooling in South Dakota.

Legal Disclaimer: This page is intended as a helpful summary of South Dakota homeschool law and should not be considered legal advice. Families should review current South Dakota Codified Law and consult legal counsel if they have specific legal questions.