The 30 Best High Schools in South Dakota: A Comprehensive Ranking
Choosing the right high school can significantly impact a student’s academic trajectory and future opportunities. South Dakota offers numerous educational institutions that excel in various metrics including academic rigor, extracurricular offerings, college preparation, and overall student success.
These top 30 high schools represent the best educational opportunities available across South Dakota, from bustling urban centers to rural communities.
Each school has demonstrated excellence through measurable outcomes such as graduation rates, standardized test scores, college acceptance rates, and the availability of advanced coursework options.
Here are the 30 best high schools in South Dakota:
1. Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School
Sioux Falls Roosevelt High School stands as one of South Dakota’s premier educational institutions. Located in Sioux Falls, the school serves approximately 2,400 students in grades 9-12.
Roosevelt High School offers a comprehensive curriculum including Advanced Placement courses, dual credit options, and specialized programs. The school maintains strong academic performance with above-average graduation rates and standardized test scores compared to state averages.
Athletic excellence is a hallmark of Roosevelt High School, with competitive teams in football, basketball, track, and several other sports. Their “Rough Riders” athletic teams have secured multiple state championships across various sports.
The school features modern facilities including well-equipped science labs, a performing arts center, and updated technology throughout classrooms. Roosevelt also boasts diverse extracurricular activities ranging from debate and robotics to music and theater programs.
Faculty members at Roosevelt are highly qualified, with many holding advanced degrees in their teaching fields.
2. Washington High School (Sioux Falls)
Washington High School stands as one of Sioux Falls’ premier educational institutions. Founded in 1908, it has built a strong reputation for academic excellence and comprehensive student development.
The school serves approximately 1,900 students in grades 9-12. Its impressive 92% graduation rate exceeds the state average, demonstrating the school’s commitment to student success.
Washington High offers over 15 Advanced Placement courses, allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school. The school’s average AP exam pass rate of 78% reflects its strong academic preparation.
Beyond academics, Washington High boasts championship-winning athletic programs and nationally recognized performing arts. Their debate team has claimed state titles for three consecutive years.
The school’s dedicated faculty includes several state Teacher of the Year finalists. Washington High maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, enabling personalized attention while preparing students for college and careers.
3. Lincoln High School (Sioux Falls)
Lincoln High School stands as a premier educational institution in Sioux Falls, consistently ranking among South Dakota’s top schools. Established in 1965, the school serves approximately 2,000 students in grades 9-12.
The school boasts impressive academic credentials with a graduation rate exceeding 95% and strong performance on standardized tests. Students have access to over 20 Advanced Placement courses, allowing them to earn college credits while still in high school.
Lincoln’s commitment to excellence extends beyond academics. The school offers comprehensive athletic programs with state championships in multiple sports. Their fine arts department receives regular recognition for outstanding performances in music, theater, and visual arts.
The school maintains a student-teacher ratio of approximately 18:1, ensuring students receive personalized attention. Lincoln High School graduates frequently earn significant scholarship opportunities and admissions to prestigious universities.
4. Rapid City Central High School
Rapid City Central High School serves as one of the primary educational institutions in South Dakota’s second-largest city. Founded in 1923, the school has established a strong reputation for academic excellence and diverse educational offerings.
The school enrolls approximately 2,100 students in grades 9-12, making it one of the largest high schools in the state. Its curriculum features a wide range of advanced placement courses and career-focused programs.
Central High’s robust extracurricular activities include championship-winning debate teams and competitive athletics programs. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1, allowing for personalized attention within a larger school environment.
The campus features modern facilities including updated science laboratories, a performing arts center, and athletic fields. Central High’s graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average, with many graduates continuing to prestigious universities.
5. Howard High School
Howard High School, located at 500 N Section Line St in Howard, South Dakota, serves grades 9–12 as the sole high school in the Howard School District. It’s a small, rural school with about 98–110 students and a favorable student–teacher ratio (~11:1) .
Academically, Howard High ranks highly, 23rd statewide per U.S. News, and is ranked 2nd among South Dakota public high schools by Niche, earning an A– overall and an A grade for teaching quality.
Proficiency rates stand around 65% in math and 85% in reading, with an average graduation rate near 90% and many students scoring around 25 on the ACT .
Beyond academics, the school boasts a vibrant sports and activities program, including successful basketball, football and golf teams. The mascot, the Tigers, reflects strong community spirit in this rural, yet academically strong, high school.
6. Aberdeen Central High School
Aberdeen Central High School serves approximately 1,300 students in grades 9-12 in Aberdeen, South Dakota. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate that consistently exceeds the state average.
Students at Aberdeen Central benefit from a diverse curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, dual credit options, and career and technical education programs. The school’s AP participation rate has grown steadily over the past five years.
Aberdeen Central’s extracurricular offerings encompass a wide range of activities from championship-caliber sports teams to award-winning fine arts programs. Their debate team has qualified for national competitions three years running.
The school features modern facilities following renovations completed in 2023. These upgrades included enhanced technology infrastructure and specialized learning spaces for STEM education.
Aberdeen Central prides itself on strong community partnerships that provide students with internship and mentorship opportunities throughout the region.
7. O’Gorman High School (Sioux Falls)
O’Gorman High School, a Catholic institution in Sioux Falls, consistently ranks among South Dakota’s top educational facilities. The school serves approximately 750 students in grades 9-12 and maintains an impressive 13:1 student-teacher ratio.
The curriculum at O’Gorman balances rigorous academics with strong faith formation. Students can choose from 17 Advanced Placement courses and numerous dual-credit options through partnerships with local universities.
Athletic excellence is a hallmark of O’Gorman, with the Knights winning multiple state championships across various sports. Their fine arts programs also receive recognition for outstanding performances in music, theater, and visual arts.
The school boasts a 99% graduation rate with over 90% of graduates continuing to higher education. Modern facilities include updated science laboratories, a performing arts center, and state-of-the-art athletic complexes.
8. Yankton High School
Yankton High School, located in Yankton, South Dakota, has maintained a strong reputation for academic excellence and extracurricular achievements. The school serves approximately 900 students in grades 9-12 and boasts a student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1, allowing for personalized attention.
The curriculum at Yankton High School includes a variety of Advanced Placement courses and dual credit options through partnerships with local colleges. These opportunities enable students to earn college credits while still in high school.
Athletic programs at Yankton are particularly notable, with the Bucks and Gazelles teams consistently performing well in state competitions. The school offers more than 20 varsity sports programs.
Yankton High School’s fine arts department has received statewide recognition, particularly for its band and choir programs. The school’s theater department produces multiple productions annually, providing students with performance experience.
9. Watertown High School
Watertown High School, located in Watertown, South Dakota, serves approximately 900 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a graduation rate of 92%, exceeding the state average.
The institution offers a comprehensive curriculum including 15 Advanced Placement courses and several dual credit options through Lake Area Technical College. This partnership provides students with valuable opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school.
Watertown High School boasts strong STEM programs, with students regularly participating in regional science competitions. Their robotics team has qualified for state championships three consecutive years.
Athletic programs are another highlight, with particular strength in basketball, wrestling, and track. The school’s facilities were renovated in 2023, adding a state-of-the-art science wing and technology lab.
Student support services include dedicated college counselors and a mentoring program connecting upperclassmen with incoming freshmen.
10. Brookings High School
Brookings High School serves approximately 900 students in grades 9-12 in Brookings, South Dakota. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with a graduation rate of 94%, exceeding the state average.
Students at Brookings benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes 15 Advanced Placement courses and numerous dual credit opportunities through South Dakota State University. The school’s average ACT score of 23.5 places it among the top performers in the state.
Brookings High School offers more than 30 extracurricular activities, from competitive robotics to championship-level debate teams. Their athletic programs have won multiple state titles in recent years, particularly in cross country and basketball.
The school employs 65 certified teachers, with over 70% holding advanced degrees. This creates an excellent student-to-teacher ratio of 16:1, allowing for personalized attention and support.
11. Eckstein Middle School (Sioux Falls)
Eckstein Middle School stands as one of Sioux Falls’ premier educational institutions, despite its name indicating it’s a middle school rather than a high school. The school has established a strong reputation for academic excellence with consistently high standardized test scores.
Students at Eckstein benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes STEM education while maintaining strong humanities programs. The school’s state-of-the-art facilities include modern science laboratories and a well-equipped technology center.
Eckstein’s dedicated faculty maintains low student-to-teacher ratios, ensuring personalized attention for all learners. The school also offers numerous extracurricular activities including debate, robotics, and various athletic programs.
Parent involvement remains exceptionally high at Eckstein, contributing to the school’s supportive community atmosphere. The school’s college preparation programs have resulted in graduates attending prestigious universities throughout the Midwest and beyond.
12. Spearfish High School
Spearfish High School serves approximately 600 students in grades 9-12 in the northern Black Hills region of South Dakota. The school maintains a strong academic reputation with a graduation rate consistently above 90%.
Students at Spearfish benefit from a diverse curriculum that includes Advanced Placement courses, dual-credit options, and career and technical education programs. The school’s average ACT score typically exceeds the state average.
Spearfish High School offers numerous extracurricular activities, with particular strength in their music programs and athletics. Their Spartan sports teams compete in South Dakota Class AA divisions in most sports.
The school’s facilities underwent significant renovations in 2022, including updated science laboratories and technology infrastructure. Spearfish maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 18:1, allowing for personalized instruction.
13. Mitchell High School
Mitchell High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Mitchell, South Dakota. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a curriculum that balances core subjects with elective offerings.
Students at Mitchell High benefit from a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention. The school offers Advanced Placement courses, giving motivated students opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school.
Athletics play an important role in the school culture, with the Kernels competing in various sports throughout the year. The school also supports numerous extracurricular activities including band, choir, debate, and various clubs.
Mitchell High School’s facilities include updated technology resources and specialized learning spaces. The school maintains strong connections with the local community through service projects and partnerships with area businesses.
14. Sturgis Brown High School
Sturgis Brown High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the city of Sturgis, located in western South Dakota. The school is part of the Meade School District and has approximately 650 students enrolled.
Known for its strong academic programs, Sturgis Brown maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 16:1, allowing for personalized attention. The school offers a variety of Advanced Placement courses and dual credit options through partnerships with local colleges.
Athletics are a significant part of the school culture, with the Scoopers competing in South Dakota High School Activities Association events. Their football program has seen notable success in recent years.
The school benefits from its proximity to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which provides unique community connections and internship opportunities. Their career and technical education programs prepare students for both college and workforce entry.
15. Pierre T.F. Riggs High School
Pierre T.F. Riggs High School, located in the state capital of South Dakota, serves approximately 700 students in grades 9-12. The school has established itself as one of the top educational institutions in the state with its comprehensive academic programs and dedicated teaching staff.
Students at Riggs High School benefit from a diverse curriculum that includes advanced placement courses, dual credit options, and vocational training programs. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, allowing for more personalized instruction and support.
Riggs High School boasts strong athletic programs, with their Governors teams competing in various sports at the AA level. The school also offers numerous extracurricular activities including band, choir, debate, and student government.
Academic performance at Riggs consistently exceeds state averages, with graduation rates above 90%. The school’s commitment to preparing students for college and careers has earned it recognition among South Dakota’s educational community.
16. Huron High School
Huron High School serves approximately 650 students in grades 9-12 in Huron, South Dakota. The school is known for its diverse student population, reflecting the community’s growing cultural variety.
The Tigers, as they are known athletically, compete in South Dakota’s Class AA division with notable success in basketball and track programs. Their academic offerings include a strong emphasis on career and technical education courses.
Huron High School maintains a solid graduation rate of around 88%, slightly above the state average. The school offers several AP courses and dual credit options through local colleges.
Student engagement is fostered through numerous extracurricular activities including Future Farmers of America, speech and debate, and various music programs. The school’s facilities underwent significant renovations in 2021, adding modern science labs and technology centers.
17. Sverdrup Middle School (Rapid City)
Sverdrup Middle School stands as a respected educational institution in Rapid City, South Dakota. The school serves students in grades 6-8 and maintains a strong focus on academic excellence and personal development.
With a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 16:1, Sverdrup provides students with personalized attention. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes core subjects alongside enrichment programs in arts, technology, and athletics.
Sverdrup’s dedicated faculty implements innovative teaching methods to engage students and foster critical thinking. The school has consistently performed above state averages in standardized testing, particularly in mathematics and science.
The campus features modern facilities including a well-equipped library, computer labs, and recreational spaces. Sverdrup also prioritizes character development through various extracurricular activities and community service opportunities.
Parents appreciate the school’s strong communication practices and inclusive environment that supports diverse learning needs.
18. Armour High School
Armour High School serves students in the small town of Armour, South Dakota. With approximately 100 students enrolled in grades 9-12, this institution maintains small class sizes that foster personalized learning experiences.
The school prides itself on its strong academic curriculum and dedicated teaching staff. Students at Armour High School consistently perform above the state average in standardized testing, particularly in mathematics and reading proficiency.
Athletic programs form an important part of the school’s identity, with basketball and track teams regularly competing at regional levels. The school’s mascot is the Packers, and their colors are purple and gold.
Armour High School offers various extracurricular activities including FFA, student council, and band. The school maintains strong connections with the local community, frequently organizing events that bring together students, parents, and residents.
19. Gregory High School
Gregory High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Gregory, South Dakota. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, allowing for personalized instruction and strong relationships between educators and students.
Academic performance at Gregory High School consistently exceeds state averages, with notable strengths in mathematics and science. The school offers a range of Advanced Placement courses, giving students opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school.
Athletics play an important role in school culture, with competitive teams in football, basketball, wrestling, and track. The Gregory Gorillas, as they’re known, have claimed several regional championships in recent years.
The school emphasizes community involvement through service learning projects and partnerships with local businesses. These connections provide students with real-world experience and strengthen the school’s ties to the Gregory community.
20. Chamberlain High School
Chamberlain High School serves approximately 250 students in grades 9-12 in Chamberlain, South Dakota. Located along the Missouri River, the school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, allowing for personalized attention.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with several AP courses and dual credit options through partnerships with regional colleges. Students consistently perform above the state average on standardized tests, with particularly strong results in mathematics.
Chamberlain High is known for its robust extracurricular program, including championship-winning sports teams in basketball and track. The school’s Native American student population benefits from culturally responsive education initiatives.
The school facilities include recently renovated science laboratories and a modern media center. Community involvement remains high, with active parent participation and local business partnerships that enhance educational opportunities.
21. Sisseton High School
Sisseton High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the northeastern region of South Dakota. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 14:1, allowing for personalized attention in the classroom.
The curriculum at Sisseton emphasizes both academic excellence and practical skills development. Students have access to Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities through local colleges.
Sisseton High School’s athletic programs compete in the Northeast Conference, with notable achievements in basketball and track. The school also offers a variety of extracurricular activities including band, choir, and Future Farmers of America.
The facility underwent renovations in 2022, adding updated science laboratories and technology infrastructure. This investment reflects the community’s commitment to providing quality educational resources.
Graduates from Sisseton High School consistently achieve above-average college acceptance rates compared to similar rural schools in the region.
22. Vermillion High School
Vermillion High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the Vermillion School District. Located in the vibrant college town of Vermillion, home to the University of South Dakota, the school benefits from its proximity to higher education resources.
The school maintains a strong academic program with a variety of advanced placement and dual credit courses. Students consistently perform above the state average on standardized tests and college entrance exams.
Vermillion High School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including competitive sports teams, music programs, and academic clubs. Their debate team has earned state recognition multiple times in recent years.
The school emphasizes college preparation, with over 70% of graduates pursuing higher education. Their partnership with the University of South Dakota provides unique opportunities for students to experience college-level resources before graduation.
23. Hill City High School
Hill City High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. The school maintains a low student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, allowing for personalized education and strong student-teacher relationships.
Hill City High School offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement courses, career and technical education programs, and various elective options. Their academic performance consistently ranks above the state average in standardized testing.
The school boasts strong athletic programs, with their Rangers competing in various sports including basketball, volleyball, and track and field. Extracurricular activities also include band, choir, and several student clubs.
Community involvement is a cornerstone of the Hill City High School experience. Students regularly participate in local service projects and benefit from partnerships with area businesses that provide real-world learning opportunities.
The school’s facilities include updated technology resources, a well-equipped gymnasium, and modern science laboratories.
24. Beresford High School
Beresford High School serves students in grades 9-12 in the small community of Beresford, South Dakota. The school maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 13:1, allowing for more personalized educational experiences.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with various AP and honors courses to challenge its students academically. Beresford High School’s graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average, with over 92% of students receiving their diplomas on time.
Athletics play an important role in student life at Beresford, with the Watchdogs competing in multiple sports throughout the school year. The school also provides numerous extracurricular activities including band, choir, drama, and FFA.
Beresford High School has implemented modern technology throughout its classrooms, giving students access to digital resources that enhance their learning experience. Community involvement remains a cornerstone of the educational approach at Beresford.
25. Dell Rapids High School
Dell Rapids High School serves students in grades 9-12 in Dell Rapids, South Dakota. The school maintains a solid academic reputation with a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention.
Students at Dell Rapids benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes advanced placement courses and dual credit opportunities. The school places emphasis on college preparation while also offering vocational programs.
Extracurricular activities are an important part of the Dell Rapids experience. The school fields competitive athletic teams in multiple sports and offers various clubs and organizations to develop student leadership.
The Quarriers, as they’re known, demonstrate strong community involvement through service projects and local partnerships. Their facilities include updated technology resources and specialized learning spaces.
Dell Rapids High School consistently performs above the state average on standardized assessments, making it a valuable educational option in eastern South Dakota.
26. Tea Area High School
Tea Area High School serves students in Tea, South Dakota, providing quality education since its establishment. The school maintains a strong academic program with a diverse range of course offerings including honors and advanced placement options.
With approximately 500 students, Tea Area High School offers a personalized learning environment while still providing comprehensive educational opportunities. The school boasts a graduation rate above the state average, demonstrating its commitment to student success.
Athletic programs at Tea Area High School include football, basketball, volleyball, and track and field, with teams competing in the Class A division. The Titans, as they are known, have built respectable athletic programs that emphasize sportsmanship and teamwork.
The school features modern facilities including science labs, a media center, and technology-equipped classrooms. Tea Area High School prides itself on preparing students for college and careers through rigorous academics and extracurricular activities.
27. Box Elder High School
Box Elder High School serves students in the Box Elder community near Rapid City. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum focusing on core academics and electives designed to prepare students for post-secondary education.
The school maintains smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention from teachers. Students benefit from access to technology in classrooms and various extracurricular activities including sports, clubs, and community service opportunities.
Box Elder High School partners with local businesses to provide internship opportunities for students interested in career exploration. The school’s dedicated faculty emphasizes student growth and achievement through regular assessment and individualized support.
Parent involvement is encouraged through regular communication and events. The school continues to develop its programs to meet the changing needs of its student population and maintain educational standards required by South Dakota.
28. Belle Fourche High School
Belle Fourche High School, located in Belle Fourche, South Dakota, serves approximately 300 students in grades 9-12. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of 14:1, allowing for personalized educational experiences.
The curriculum at Belle Fourche High School includes standard academic courses along with several vocational and technical programs. Students can participate in agriculture education, business courses, and industrial technology classes that prepare them for both college and careers.
Athletic programs are a significant part of the school culture, with the Broncs competing in various sports including football, basketball, wrestling, and track. The school also offers numerous extracurricular activities such as band, choir, and student government.
Belle Fourche High School has implemented several initiatives to improve college readiness, including dual credit courses in partnership with regional colleges. The school’s graduation rate consistently exceeds the state average.
29. Mobridge-Pollock High School
Mobridge-Pollock High School serves students in the rural community of Mobridge, South Dakota. The school maintains a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 12:1, allowing for personalized instruction and strong student-teacher relationships.
The curriculum at Mobridge-Pollock balances core academic subjects with practical vocational training suited to the region’s needs. Students have access to various extracurricular activities including competitive sports teams, music programs, and academic clubs.
The school takes pride in its tight-knit community atmosphere, where educators know students by name. College readiness scores show steady improvement over recent years, with increasing numbers of graduates pursuing higher education.
Mobridge-Pollock emphasizes character development alongside academic achievement. The school’s facilities include updated technology labs and a recently renovated athletic complex that serves both the school and broader community events.
30. Rosholt High School
Rosholt High School serves students in the small town of Rosholt, located in northeastern South Dakota. The school maintains a tight-knit community atmosphere with a student-to-teacher ratio that allows for personalized attention.
Academic programs at Rosholt focus on core curriculum while offering select electives that prepare students for various post-graduation paths. Students participate in a range of extracurricular activities including athletics, FFA, and academic competitions.
The school emphasizes character development alongside academic achievement. Community involvement remains a cornerstone of the Rosholt educational experience, with students regularly participating in local service projects.
Rosholt High School maintains consistent graduation rates above the state average. The school facilities include updated technology resources, allowing students access to digital learning tools despite its rural location.
Key Factors That Shape South Dakota High School Rankings
Several critical elements determine how South Dakota high schools are evaluated and ranked, with educational outcomes, student opportunities, and regional contexts playing essential roles in distinguishing top-performing institutions.
Academic Performance Metrics
South Dakota’s high school rankings heavily rely on measurable academic indicators. Standardized test scores, particularly the state-administered Smarter Balanced assessments, serve as primary evaluation tools. These assessments measure proficiency in core subjects like mathematics and English language arts.
Graduation rates constitute another crucial metric, with the state’s average hovering around 84%. The best schools typically maintain rates above 90%, demonstrating their ability to support students through completion.
College readiness indicators, including Advanced Placement (AP) participation rates and scores, dual enrollment opportunities, and ACT/SAT performance, significantly impact rankings. Schools offering robust AP programs with high passage rates often receive higher rankings.
Student-to-teacher ratios also influence evaluations, with the state average at approximately 14:1. Schools maintaining lower ratios can provide more personalized instruction, potentially improving academic outcomes.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Athletic programs play a substantial role in South Dakota school rankings. Schools with competitive teams in basketball, football, and wrestling often receive recognition for developing well-rounded students.
Fine arts offerings, including band, choir, theater, and visual arts programs, contribute significantly to school evaluations. Top-ranked institutions typically maintain robust creative opportunities alongside academic excellence.
STEM-focused extracurricular activities have gained importance in recent years. Schools with competitive robotics teams, coding clubs, and science olympiad participants tend to rank higher due to their emphasis on future-ready skills.
Community service requirements and opportunities also factor into rankings. Many leading South Dakota high schools integrate service learning into their curricula, helping students develop civic responsibility while strengthening college applications.
Influence of Community and Location
Rural versus urban location significantly impacts school resources and opportunities. Urban schools in Sioux Falls and Rapid City often benefit from greater funding and partnership opportunities, while rural schools may excel in community engagement.
Socioeconomic factors shape school rankings considerably. Schools in wealthier districts typically have access to better facilities, technology, and supplemental programs.
Tribal schools face unique challenges and opportunities. Those successfully incorporating cultural education alongside academic excellence receive special recognition in many ranking systems.
Community involvement enhances school performance through volunteer support, business partnerships, and mentorship programs. Schools with strong community connections often demonstrate better student outcomes regardless of size or location.
How South Dakota Supports High School Education
South Dakota implements various programs and allocates resources to enhance educational outcomes for high school students across the state. The Department of Education works collaboratively with local districts to ensure quality learning experiences through dedicated funding and teacher support systems.
Statewide Programs and Initiatives
South Dakota’s Dual Credit program allows high school students to earn college credits at reduced costs, with courses available from all six public universities and four technical colleges. Since its 2014 implementation, participation has grown significantly, with over 4,800 students enrolled in 2024-2025.
The state’s Advanced Placement Initiative covers exam fees for eligible students and provides teacher training to expand AP course availability in rural areas.
The Jump Start program assists low-income and first-generation students with college preparation and financial planning. This initiative reached 1,200 students in the 2024-2025 school year.
South Dakota also maintains the Opportunity Scholarship, which provided $6,500 to over 1,300 qualifying graduates in 2024 who maintained rigorous academic standards.
Teacher Development and Resources
South Dakota addresses teacher recruitment challenges through the Dakota Dreams Teacher Scholarship, offering up to $15,000 to education majors who commit to teaching in the state for five years. Since 2022, this program has supported 240 future educators.
The state’s Teacher Mentoring Program pairs new teachers with experienced colleagues during their first two years. This initiative has reduced new teacher turnover by 18% since 2023.
Professional development opportunities include the annual Systems Change Conference, which attracted 1,500 educators in June 2025 to share best practices and innovative teaching strategies.
The Department of Education’s instructional coaching network provides specialized support in mathematics and literacy. Currently, 42 coaches work across 85 school districts to enhance classroom instruction and implement evidence-based practices.
