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How to Homeschool in South Dakota
A plain-English starting point for South Dakota families: the legal basics, a simple first week, and an online K–12 curriculum built to help you meet homeschool requirements.
Step 1: Know South Dakota's homeschool basics
In short: HSLDA lists one legal option for homeschooling in South Dakota, and compulsory school ages of 6–18. You must give notice before or when you start (HSLDA has the form and deadline). Certain subjects are required by law. No assessment is required. No parent teaching qualification is required.
For the current statute, deadlines, and forms, see HSLDA's South Dakota homeschool law page. HSLDA's page also lists state and local support groups.
| Legal options | One |
|---|---|
| Compulsory ages | 6–18 |
| Notice required | Yes |
| Parent qualifications | No |
| Required subjects | Yes |
| Testing / assessment | No |
| Immunization records | No |
This is a general summary, not legal advice. Homeschool laws change, and following them is the parent's responsibility. Check HSLDA or your state's education department before you start.
Step 2: Choose a curriculum that fits your family
Complete K–12 lessons
Daily lessons in every grade, with pictures, interactive labs, games, and quizzes that grade themselves.
History from primary sources
Students read real documents, letters, and speeches, not just textbook summaries.
High school transcripts and credits
Pathways for College Prep/STEM, Trades, and Business, with tools to help you build a parent-issued transcript.
Student Resource Center
Free citation guides, calculators, and study tools, all in one place.
Record-keeping help
Use our record-keeping guide to keep attendance, work samples, and results.
Live 1:1 tutoring
Optional live tutoring over Zoom or Google Meet, $35/hour (first full hour $25).
Step 3: Plan your first week
- Read the South Dakota requirements above and file any required notice.
- Set up a simple record-keeping folder (attendance, work samples, and test or evaluation results if South Dakota asks for them).
- Start Week 1 of Life Academy free and see how your child responds.
- Connect with a local co-op or a statewide group for field trips and community.
Pricing
| Plan | Monthly | Yearly |
|---|---|---|
| One student (K–12) | $35/mo | $336/yr |
| Family plan (up to 4 students) | $69/mo | $662/yr |
| Live 1:1 tutoring | $35/hour (first full hour $25) | |
Week 1 is free. See plans
South Dakota homeschool FAQ
Is homeschooling legal in South Dakota?
Yes, homeschooling is legal in all 50 states. See HSLDA for South Dakota's specific rules.
Is Life Academy accredited?
No. Life Academy is not accredited. It's a parent-directed curriculum built to help you meet homeschool requirements. Parents issue the homeschool transcript.
Can my teen earn high school credits?
Yes. Courses come with credit guidance and transcript tools. Colleges set their own admission rules, so check with the schools your teen is considering.