The SD Homeschool Checklist: Navigating Regulations

Homeschooling in South Dakota has seen explosive growth since the disruptions of 2020, transforming from a niche educational choice into a mainstream alternative for thousands of families. With this shift comes increased scrutiny and a need for clarity on the legal framework governing home education. For parents embarking on this journey, the regulatory landscape can seem daunting. This guide breaks down the essential requirements, rights, and responsibilities for South Dakota homeschooling families in 2026.

While South Dakota is generally considered a "low-regulation" state compared to others, there are still critical compliance steps that must be followed to avoid truancy charges or loss of access to public school services. Whether you are a veteran homeschooler or considering pulling your child out of the public system mid-year, adherence to these statutes is non-negotiable.

The Form A Notification Process

The cornerstone of legal homeschooling in South Dakota is the "Public School Exemption Certificate," commonly known as Form A. This document serves as your official declaration of intent to educate your child outside the public school system. Failing to file this form is the most common legal error made by new homeschooling families.

Deadlines and Submission

The statute requires that Form A be filed annually. For students starting the school year at home, the form is typically due before the start of the local district's academic calendar, often in August. However, providing notice "within a reasonable time" before withdrawing a child is the standard practice. The form must be submitted to the local school district administration office—not the Department of Education in Pierre. It is crucial to obtain a date-stamped copy or a receipt of delivery. In the event of a dispute over enrollment status, this paper trail is your primary defense.

Updating Your Status

Life circumstances change. If you move to a different school district within South Dakota during the academic year, you must file a new Form A with the new district immediately. Similarly, if you decide to enroll your child back into public school mid-year, notifying the district formally helps ensure a smoother transition regarding grade placement and credit transfer, although the district has final authority on placement based on their own assessments.

Standardized Testing Requirements

South Dakota law mandates that homeschool students participate in standardized testing at specific grade intervals. This requirement is designed to ensure that home-educated children are achieving basic proficiency in core subjects like reading and mathematics.

Mandated Grades: 4, 8, and 11

The specific grades for testing are 4th, 8th, and 11th. During these years, homeschool parents must arrange for their child to take a nationally standardized achievement test. The state provides the test used by public schools (currently the Smarter Balanced assessment) at no cost to homeschool families, usually administered at the local public school. Alternatively, parents can choose a different nationally normed test (like the Iowa Assessments or Stanford Achievement Test) and administer it privately at their own expense.

Reporting and Compliance

If you choose the private testing option, you are not required to submit the specific scores to the school district unless the district requests them to verify that "basic academic educational program" requirements are being met. Generally, the law focuses on the *administration* of the test rather than a specific cut-score for passing. However, consistent failure to demonstrate progress can, in extreme cases, trigger a review of the exemption status. It is advisable to keep all testing records in a permanent file indefinitely.

Access to Public School Services

One of the unique aspects of South Dakota's homeschooling law is the provision allowing partial participation in public school activities. This "à la carte" approach provides significant flexibility but requires proactive communication with building principals.

Extracurricular Participation

Under state statute (often referred to as South Dakota's version of the "Tebow Law"), homeschool students are eligible to participate in any interscholastic activity sanctioned by the South Dakota High School Activities Association (SDHSAA). This includes sports like football and basketball, as well as fine arts like band, choir, and debate.

To participate, the student must meet the same eligibility requirements as public school students, including age, residency, and academic standing. For homeschoolers, academic eligibility is typically verified by the parent submitting a periodic grade report or transcript to the school's athletic director. It is important to note that you must participate in the district where you reside; you cannot "shop" for a better sports team in a neighboring district unless you go through the open enrollment process, which has its own complexities for homeschoolers.

Special Education Services

Federal law (IDEA) requires school districts to identify and evaluate all children with disabilities, including those in homeschools. However, the obligation to *provide* services is different for homeschoolers. In South Dakota, homeschool students may be eligible for special education services through an Individualized Education Services Plan (ISP), which is distinct from an IEP. Services like speech therapy or occupational therapy are often available, but they may be offered at the public school site rather than in the home. Parents should request an evaluation in writing if they suspect a learning disability.

Curriculum Choices and Record Keeping

South Dakota does not mandate a specific curriculum for homeschoolers. The law simply requires that instruction be given in the "basic skills of language arts and mathematics." This broad definition allows for a wide range of educational philosophies, from classical education to unschooling.

Regardless of the method chosen, maintaining a detailed log of instruction is highly recommended. While not strictly required to be submitted, a daily log of activities, reading lists, and work samples creates a portfolio that can be invaluable if you ever need to prove the validity of your education—for example, when applying to colleges or if facing a legal challenge. In the absence of a transcript from an accredited institution, this portfolio becomes your student's academic currency.

Conclusion

Homeschooling in South Dakota offers a path of freedom and customization, but it is paved with bureaucratic responsibilities. By understanding the Form A process, respecting the testing mandates, and knowing your rights regarding extracurriculars, you can build a robust educational experience for your child. Remember, the goal of these regulations is not to hinder you, but to ensure that every child in the state receives an education that prepares them for the future.

For related information on public school policies, read our analysis of New Reading Mandates. To see how rural districts are coping with funding, check out The Rural Infrastructure Gap.