ESL Teacher Requirements & ESOL Certification in South Dakota in 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

South Dakota experiences a steady demand for ESL teachers, with over 6,000 students classified as English language learners statewide. Pursuing a career in ESL education here offers job stability and meaningful impact in diverse school communities. South Dakota requires ESL teachers to hold a valid teaching license alongside ESOL certification obtained through state-approved programs. These credentials ensure educators are equipped to support learners effectively.

This article outlines the specific licensing steps, certification options, and practical strategies for meeting South Dakota’s requirements. Prepared by career planning experts, the guide addresses common obstacles and helps readers navigate the certification process with clarity and confidence.

Key Things to Know About ESL Teaching Requirements and ESOL Certification in South Dakota

A bachelor’s degree in education or a related field is mandatory, with a focus on language acquisition or TESOL recommended.
Completion of an approved ESOL certification program is required, meeting South Dakota Department of Education standards to teach English learners effectively.
Applicants must pass the NES English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) content test to demonstrate proficiency and secure their teaching license in South Dakota.

What are the education requirements to teach ESL in South Dakota?
How do you get ESOL certified in South Dakota?
What are the alternative routes to becoming an ESL teacher in South Dakota?
What exams are required for ESL teacher certification in South Dakota?
How often do ESL teachers need to renew their certification in South Dakota?
What are the continuing education requirements for ESL teachers in South Dakota?
How long does it take to become an ESL teacher in South Dakota?
Does South Dakota have reciprocity for ESL certification?
Is there a demand for ESL teachers in South Dakota?
How much do ESL teachers make in South Dakota?
Other Things You Should Know About Being an ESL Teacher in South Dakota

What are the education requirements to teach ESL in South Dakota?

Meeting the academic requirements to become an ESL teacher in South Dakota centers on obtaining relevant degrees and specialized coursework to effectively support English language learners. These qualifications ensure educators are equipped with essential skills and knowledge to succeed in diverse K-12 classrooms.

The core academic steps focus on both foundational education and ESL-specific training:

Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates need at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution combined with a state-approved teacher preparation program focused on K-12 education.
Teacher Preparation Program: Completion of a program that includes instructional methods and practical experience is required, whether integrated into the bachelor’s degree or pursued post-baccalaureate.
ESL/ENL Endorsement Coursework: To earn an ESL endorsement, candidates complete 18 semester credits covering linguistics, curriculum development, language and culture studies, assessment, reading instruction, and teaching methodology.
Practicum or Student Teaching: Hands-on experience working with K-12 English language learners through a practicum or student teaching is essential for practical application of skills.
Graduate Certificate or Master’s Option: Professionals with a bachelor’s degree may fulfill ESL education requirements via a graduate certificate or master’s degree in ESL or related fields, including key coursework and practicum.

For those exploring options on foundational education, it is helpful to research what is the best bachelors in education online to meet South Dakota’s standards efficiently and effectively.

How do you get ESOL certified in South Dakota?

To obtain ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) certification in South Dakota, candidates must navigate several academic and professional steps designed to prepare educators for teaching English learners effectively in K-12 settings. The process ensures that teachers possess the appropriate background, practical experience, and cultural knowledge required in the state’s diverse classrooms. Below are the key ESOL certification requirements in South Dakota:

Bachelor’s Degree Requirement: Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. If the degree is not in education, completion of an approved teacher preparation program is necessary to qualify.
Completion of a Teacher Preparation Program: Candidates must finish a state-approved program which includes both coursework and supervised classroom experience with K-12 students, either integrated with their degree or taken afterward as a certificate or graduate degree.
Specialized ESL Coursework: A minimum of 18 semester credits focused on ESL topics such as linguistics, teaching methods, curriculum design, and culture is required. Practical experience through practicum or student teaching with English learners must also be completed.
South Dakota Indian Studies Course: All new educators must take a three-credit course on South Dakota Indian studies to understand local Native American cultures and history. This course must be passed with a grade of C or better and completed at an accredited institution.
Application Submission and Fees: Prospective teachers must submit a formal application that includes transcripts and proof of completed requirements, along with paying state licensing fees to initiate the certification process.
Alternative Certification Pathways: South Dakota offers alternative paths such as state-approved programs, Teach for America, or Troops to Teachers, which include pedagogical training and assessments for those not following traditional routes.

What are the alternative routes to becoming an ESL teacher in South Dakota?

South Dakota offers alternative pathways to becoming an ESL teacher to address shortages and attract individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. These options support career changers, those holding degrees in unrelated fields, and candidates pursuing teaching outside traditional university programs.

General Education Alternative (GEA) Certification Pathway: Requires a bachelor’s degree and a job offer from a South Dakota school. Candidates complete a two-year online teacher preparation and mentoring program while earning full teacher pay. This pathway enables candidates to obtain an English as a New Language (ENL) endorsement and teach in high-need areas.
Teach for America (TFA) Alternative Certification Pathway: Open to individuals with a bachelor’s degree and a minimum 2.50 GPA, this route offers a one-year renewable certificate. Participants teach full-time while completing 15 credits toward South Dakota’s Professional Teaching Certificate, facilitating a quick entrance into underserved classrooms with significant English learner populations.
State Alternative Route to Certification Program: For candidates with a bachelor’s degree and an employment offer, this three-year certificate program involves state-mandated coursework, testing, and mentoring. It allows career changers to begin teaching immediately while completing certification requirements.
Certification-Only Programs via South Dakota Universities: Designed for bachelor’s degree holders without formal teacher training, these programs combine secondary teaching with flexible online coursework on teaching methods and South Dakota Indian studies. Completion leads to certification recommendation after 15 transcript credits and state requirements.
Northern Plains Transition to Teaching (NPTT): This regional program lasts one to three years and focuses on secondary teaching in rural or high-needs districts. Participants secure a teaching position and complete coursework and mentoring concurrently, supporting a gradual but structured transition into teaching.

When I spoke with an ESL teacher from South Dakota who graduated locally, she described her route through the General Education Alternative pathway as both challenging and rewarding. “Balancing full-time teaching with online coursework and mentoring wasn’t easy,” she reflected, “but earning a salary while working toward certification made it manageable.”

She noted that securing a job offer before beginning the program was a critical milestone that motivated her throughout the two years. Her experience highlighted how alternative routes give practical, step-by-step ways to move from diverse backgrounds into effective ESL teaching in South Dakota’s schools.

What exams are required for ESL teacher certification in South Dakota?

Exams play a key role in ensuring ESL teachers in South Dakota meet essential academic and pedagogical standards. The Praxis exam requirements for ESL teachers in South Dakota include assessments that verify foundational skills and understanding of educational practices relevant to diverse classrooms.

Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This exam measures basic competencies in reading, writing, and math, confirming that candidates possess the essential academic skills needed for effective teaching.
South Dakota Principles of Learning and Teaching test for ESL certification: The PLT exam assesses knowledge of teaching methodologies, student learning, and assessment strategies, with options tailored to different grade bands (K–6, 5–9, 7–12) to ensure appropriate pedagogical preparation.
Praxis Subject Assessment – English as a Second Language (Not currently required): Although not mandated now, staying informed about possible changes to this requirement is important for candidates preparing for ESL certification in South Dakota.
South Dakota Indian Studies Course (Three Credit Hours): Rather than an exam, completing this university-level course is a legislative requirement designed to prepare educators to support Native students by understanding South Dakota’s Indigenous history and culture.

Prospective ESL teachers seeking certification may also consider advancing their qualifications with a bachelors degree in library science, which can complement teaching credentials and expand career options in educational settings.

How often do ESL teachers need to renew their certification in South Dakota?

ESL teacher certification renewal in South Dakota is required every five years to ensure educators stay updated with current educational standards, teaching methods, and state regulations. This process supports high-quality ESL instruction and ongoing professional development for teachers working with English learners.

Renewal Period: ESL certifications must be renewed every five years, with certificates typically expiring on July 1 of the expiration year. This applies to initial professional and advanced certificates.
Continuing Education Credits (CEC): Teachers need six education-related credits within the five-year period. At least three credits must be transcripted from an accredited institution or earned through specialized learning hours, while the other three can be continuing education contact hours (CECH) or additional transcripted credits. A common combination includes 3 transcripted credits and 45 CECH.
Professional Development Alternatives: Completion of a state-approved mentor program, either as mentor or mentee, can substitute for credits if the teacher has participated for at least two years out of five and provides certificates. National Board Certification completion or renewal within the period also satisfies renewal requirements.
Application and Documentation: Teachers must submit a renewal application to the South Dakota Department of Education, including proof of credits or mentor program participation and adherence to professional ethics standards.
Mandatory Training: All renewing teachers must complete state-approved suicide awareness and prevention training to support student well-being.
Renewal Fees: A fee is required with the renewal application; the amount varies based on certificate type and endorsements. Check with the South Dakota Department of Education for current fees.

What are the continuing education requirements for ESL teachers in South Dakota?

Continuing education plays a crucial role for ESL teachers in South Dakota to maintain their certification and keep up with evolving instructional methods. This ongoing professional development ensures educators remain effective in supporting English learners, aligning with the state's standards.

Renewal Cycle: South Dakota ESL teacher certificate renewal South Dakota requires recertification every 5 years to keep credentials active and valid.
Total Credits Required: Teachers must complete 6 continuing education credits for ESL teachers South Dakota every five years as part of the renewal process.
Specialized Credits: At least 3 of these credits must be transcripted coursework or specialized training directly linked to ESL teaching or related fields.
Approved Activities: Eligible credits include graduate or undergraduate courses, state-approved workshops, in-service trainings, and professional learning activities related to education.
Timing of Credits: Only credits earned after the current certificate’s issue date qualify for renewal; previous credits cannot be reused.
Documentation: Teachers must provide official records detailing each activity, including course title, provider, participant name, contact hours, and date/location when submitting for renewal.
Indian Studies Requirement: Provisional certificate renewals need an approved South Dakota Indian Studies course completed with a grade C or higher, supported by an official transcript.
Flexible Learning Options: ESL educators can fulfill requirements through online, in-person, or hybrid professional development opportunities that meet state approval.
ESL Endorsement Focus: Continuing education should concentrate on ESL pedagogy, curriculum development, or language acquisition to maintain or add the ESL (ENL) endorsement

For those seeking affordable educational pathways, this list of most affordable online education degrees can provide valuable options to fulfill credit requirements while managing costs effectively.

How long does it take to become an ESL teacher in South Dakota?

Becoming an ESL teacher in South Dakota generally spans five to six years from starting a bachelor’s degree to obtaining full certification. The timeline can be shorter for candidates with prior degrees or focused graduate programs. Breaking down the process helps manage expectations and plan effectively.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree: Typically requires four years full-time. Most candidates earn degrees in education or English at accredited institutions.
Completing Teacher Preparation or ESL Program: Takes one to two additional years if pursued separately. This includes specialized ESL coursework aligned with state requirements.
Student Teaching or Practicum: Usually lasts one semester (3–6 months), integrated within the preparation program, providing vital hands-on experience.
Passing Required Exams: Time varies, but candidates often prepare and take Praxis ENL subject tests during their final year of study.
Applying for Certification: Processing by South Dakota Department of Education can take up to 10 weeks depending on volume and documentation completeness.

When asking an ESL teacher from South Dakota who graduated locally about this timeline, he reflected, “It felt like a steady climb—balancing coursework and the practicum was intense but rewarding. My biggest challenge was scheduling the Praxis exams while managing student teaching hours.

The waiting period for certification made me anxious, but having a clear plan helped me stay focused. Overall, the journey took about six years, but each step built a solid foundation for my career.” His experience underscores how patience and a structured approach are key to navigating South Dakota’s ESL certification process.

Does South Dakota have reciprocity for ESL certification?

South Dakota does not offer formal reciprocity agreements specifically for ESL teacher certification with other states. Instead, educators seeking ESOL certification must usually undergo a review process similar to licensure by endorsement.

This means submitting verification of their current teaching license, academic qualifications, and any ESOL endorsements held in other states. South Dakota’s Department of Education requires that applicants demonstrate equivalency in their training and supervised teaching experience to meet state-specific standards.

The process typically involves submitting official transcripts, verification of employment and licensure status, as well as passing any state-required examinations or assessments. Because South Dakota lacks a true reciprocity framework for ESOL certification, applicants should anticipate an individualized evaluation of their credentials.

Additional coursework or testing may be required if an applicant’s qualifications do not align fully with South Dakota’s ESL teacher preparation guidelines. This system helps maintain high educational standards but means there are no shortcuts for out-of-state certified ESL teachers.

Is there a demand for ESL teachers in South Dakota?

South Dakota continues to experience a strong demand for ESL teachers, driven by steady population growth and increasing numbers of English language learners (ELLs) in public schools. Rising diversity, both in urban centers and rural areas, has prompted state and federal initiatives that support bilingual education and ESL programs.

This demand is a response to South Dakota’s expanding K–12 student enrollment, which grew from 128,000 to 141,000 over the last decade. As the student population becomes more linguistically diverse, schools seek qualified ESL instructors to meet these evolving educational needs, making the demand for ESL teachers in South Dakota an ongoing trend.

ESL teachers are most needed in K–12 public schools, especially in urban districts like Sioux Falls and in rural communities with growing immigrant populations and significant Native American enrollment. Rural districts often face the greatest challenges, such as higher child poverty rates and lower teacher salaries, which exacerbate the South Dakota ESL teacher shortage.

About 25% of districts rely on hiring foreign teachers, many certified in ESL or related fields, to fill vacancies. Adult education programs also require ESL staff, though shortages are most acute at the elementary and middle school levels. For international professionals seeking to teach in South Dakota, pursuing appropriate certification is essential, and exploring programs like this list of cheapest online library science masters degrees may offer cost-effective pathways to meet educational qualifications while preparing to support these growing communities.

How much do ESL teachers make in South Dakota?

Salary information plays a key role for prospective ESL teachers in South Dakota, as earnings vary based on education level, experience, and geographic location. Knowing the average ESL teacher salary in South Dakota helps candidates make informed decisions about their career paths and further qualifications.

Currently, the average ESL teacher pay range in South Dakota centers around $56,698 per year, or about $27.26 per hour as of August 2025. Most salaries fall between $41,500 and $63,000 annually, with the highest earners making up to $80,000. This is somewhat lower than the national median for elementary and secondary teachers, which ranges between $59,660 and $61,660 annually, placing South Dakota at the bottom among states for ESL teacher pay.

Factors Influencing ESL Teacher Pay:

Type of School: Public schools usually offer higher salaries and better benefits compared to private institutions, which may have smaller budgets.
Education Level: Holding advanced degrees or specialized ESL endorsements often leads to increased earnings.
Experience: More years of teaching typically result in higher pay due to salary step increases within school districts.
Grade Level: Teaching K–12 students usually provides more stable and better-paid positions than adult education or community programs.
Certification and Licensure: State-recognized ESL endorsements can boost salary, especially in critical shortage areas.
Geographic Location: Urban districts may pay more to attract qualified teachers, though cost of living varies accordingly.

To improve earning potential, consider pursuing advanced education or certification. For example, exploring careers with online masters degree in education can provide valuable credentials that enhance pay and opportunities in South Dakota’s ESL teaching market.

What ESL Teachers Say About Their Careers in South Dakota

Completing my ESOL certification at Black Hills State University opened doors I had only dreamed of. Starting my career in a local South Dakota school, I quickly realized how much impact an ESL teacher can have on a student’s confidence and language skills. The support from the community and the dedication of my colleagues has kept me motivated every day. I love seeing my students grow not just academically, but socially as they integrate into the community. South Dakota’s welcoming atmosphere makes this work deeply rewarding. - Andrea
As a native of South Dakota, pursuing the ESOL program at Dakota State University was a transformative experience. Being an ESL teacher here means embracing unique challenges such as connecting with students from diverse backgrounds, often in rural settings. It’s a career full of opportunities for professional growth and collaboration. I appreciate how the program prepared me for real-world teaching scenarios, making me confident and effective in the classroom. This profession has allowed me to give back meaningfully to my community. - Liana
My passion for teaching and personal growth flourished after completing the ESOL certification at Northern State University. One of the most rewarding aspects of working as an ESL teacher in South Dakota is the chance to engage deeply with students’ cultural stories and help them find their voice. Career advancement is very much possible here, especially with ongoing professional development programs supported by local institutions. The balance of a supportive academic environment alongside South Dakota’s beautiful landscape has made this journey fulfilling on both professional and personal levels. - Jana

Other Things You Should Know About Being an ESL Teacher in South Dakota

Can licensed teachers in South Dakota add ESOL to their existing certification?

Licensed teachers in South Dakota can add an ESOL endorsement to their existing certification by completing the required coursework and meeting the state’s endorsement criteria. The South Dakota Department of Education offers an ESOL endorsement that enhances a teacher’s ability to instruct English language learners effectively.

To obtain the endorsement, teachers typically need to complete specific ESOL training programs and submit proof of their qualifications to the state board. This pathway allows licensed educators to expand their professional credentials and better support diverse student populations in the classroom.

Can international teachers get certified to teach ESL in South Dakota?

International teachers can obtain certification to teach ESL in South Dakota, but they must meet specific state requirements that often include credential evaluation and completion of state-approved teacher preparation programs. Since licensing criteria are designed primarily for U.S.-trained educators, international applicants may need to provide proof of equivalent education and ESL-specific training.

Additionally, passing the required Praxis exams and demonstrating English proficiency are essential steps in the certification process. While the pathway is available, it can be more complex and time-consuming for international teachers compared to those educated domestically.

Can ESL teachers in South Dakota earn advanced certifications?

ESL teachers in South Dakota have opportunities to earn advanced certifications to enhance their qualifications and career prospects. Beyond the basic ESL endorsement, educators can pursue a Master’s degree with a focus on TESOL or bilingual education, which often leads to advanced certification recognized by the state.

Additionally, South Dakota offers endorsements for teaching English to speakers of other languages at different grade levels, allowing teachers to specialize further. These advanced certifications not only improve instructional skills but also increase eligibility for higher salaries and leadership roles within educational institutions.

Do ESL teachers in South Dakota get benefits and retirement plans?

ESL teachers in South Dakota who are employed by public school districts typically receive benefits and participate in state retirement plans, similar to other certified educators. These benefits often include health insurance, paid leave, and access to the South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS), which provides a defined benefit pension plan.

Private schools or language centers may have varied offerings, so it’s important to verify benefits directly with the employer. Overall, public ESL teachers in South Dakota enjoy the security of comprehensive benefit packages and retirement plans, making it a stable career choice for those pursuing ESOL certification and teaching in the state.