School year planning
South Dakota School Calendar
South Dakota schools typically start in mid-to-late August, with most districts beginning in the third or fourth week of August and wrap up late May to early June.
Districts set their own calendars, so use the dates below as a guide and confirm with your local school system.
When does school start?
mid-to-late August, with most districts beginning in the third or fourth week of August
When does school end?
late May to early June
Winter break
roughly the last two weeks of December, returning in early January
Spring break
one week in mid-to-late March, commonly the second or third week
About the South Dakota school year
South Dakota does not impose a statewide mandatory start date, so districts set their own calendars. The vast majority of the state's 151+ districts begin before the last Monday in August. Spring break timing varies by district but almost universally falls in March. Rural agricultural districts occasionally shift schedules slightly to accommodate local conditions.
Largest school districts in South Dakota
- Sioux Falls School District 49-5
- Rapid City Area School District 51-4
- Harrisburg School District 41-2
- Brandon Valley School District 49-2
- Watertown School District 14-4
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Get the Free Countdown AppFrequently Asked Questions
When does school start in South Dakota?
Most South Dakota public schools start in mid-to-late August, typically during the third or fourth week of the month. There is no state-mandated start date, so each district sets its own calendar.
When is spring break in South Dakota?
Spring break in South Dakota typically falls in mid-to-late March, usually lasting one week. The exact week varies by district, so families should check with their local school.
When does the school year end in South Dakota?
Most South Dakota public schools finish the year in late May or early June, depending on the number of snow days used and each district's calendar.
How long is winter break in South Dakota schools?
Winter break generally runs for about two weeks, covering the last week of December and the first few days of January, with students typically returning in early January.
Want to count down the days? Browse school countdowns or see school calendars for every state.
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