How to Become a High School Math Teacher in South Dakota for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

South Dakota is addressing a critical shortage of high school math teachers by expanding both traditional and alternative certification routes, including on-the-job training and classroom-based apprenticeships.

This guide outlines the steps to becoming licensed, from earning a bachelor’s degree and completing a state-approved preparation program to passing the Praxis exams. It also covers alternative pathways like the Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway, options for out-of-state licensure, and financial incentives such as scholarships and loan forgiveness for those teaching in high-need areas.

Key Points About Becoming a High School Math Teacher in South Dakota

Demand for high school math teachers in South Dakota remains steady, with rural districts offering strong employment opportunities due to teacher shortages.
The average salary for high school math teachers in South Dakota is approximately $52,613 annually, competitive for the region and supplemented by benefits.
South Dakota offers affordable living costs and supportive educational communities, making it an ideal place to launch and grow a teaching career.

What are the educational requirements to become a high school math teacher in South Dakota?
What colleges in South Dakota offer high school math education programs?
How do I get certified to teach high school math in South Dakota?
How do I renew my math teaching license in South Dakota?
Are high school math teachers in high demand in South Dakota?
How much do high school math teachers make in South Dakota?
How do high school math teachers address diverse student learning needs in South Dakota?
What benefits do high school teachers receive in South Dakota?
Can interdisciplinary studies boost teaching effectiveness and career growth in South Dakota?
How can a high school math teacher advance their career in South Dakota?
What are the common challenges for high school math teachers in South Dakota?
How can I switch careers to become a high school math teacher in South Dakota?
What are the differences between high school and middle school math teacher requirements in South Dakota?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a High School Math Teacher in South Dakota

What are the educational requirements to become a high school math teacher in South Dakota?

To meet the educational requirements for becoming a high school math teacher in South Dakota, candidates must fulfill specific academic and training benchmarks. These requirements ensure solid content knowledge and effective teaching preparation, aligning with the state’s standards for secondary educators.

Bachelor’s degree with a major in mathematics: This requires a minimum of 27 semester hours in math coursework, maintaining at least a 2.7 GPA in these courses. Remedial or developmental classes do not count toward this total.
Completion of an accredited teacher education program: The program must combine academic study with professional preparation, including coursework in pedagogy and practical field experience.
Field experience or internship: Hands-on teaching practice through supervised student teaching or internships is essential to gain real classroom exposure with diverse learner groups.

South Dakota’s approach to the south dakota math teacher certification requirements emphasizes both the quantity and quality of math coursework, setting it apart from many other states. Prospective teachers should focus on meeting these standards early in their academic career to streamline their path to certification.

For those exploring educational pathways, considering the best online associate in education programs can provide foundational knowledge and flexibility before advancing to a bachelor’s degree and teacher preparation program.

What colleges in South Dakota offer high school math education programs?

Several South Dakota institutions offer robust programs for those aiming to become high school math teachers. These schools combine strong mathematical coursework with specialized education training to ensure graduates are well-prepared for secondary mathematics classrooms.

Black Hills State University: Black Hills State University provides a Math Education program tailored to middle and high school teaching. The curriculum includes advanced math topics such as Discrete Mathematics, Theory of Numbers, Combinatorics, Complex Analysis, and History of Mathematics, alongside education courses like Educational Psychology and Classroom Management designed specifically for grades 7-12.
Dakota State University: Dakota State University offers a Mathematics Secondary Education BS program focused on preparing students to teach a broad range of mathematical subjects from algebra to calculus and statistics, emphasizing practical teaching skills.
University of Sioux Falls: The University of Sioux Falls features a Mathematics Secondary Education B.S. degree with courses including Abstract Algebra, Calculus I-III, Differential Equations, Foundations of Geometry, and a specialized course in Teaching High School Mathematics. Their program also places strong emphasis on pedagogical awareness and hands-on teaching experience.
University of South Dakota: The University of South Dakota delivers a B.S.Ed. in secondary education with a mathematics education specialization, combining comprehensive mathematics coursework with essential classroom teaching experience for future high school math teachers.

If you want to explore further, resources detailing what are the best online teaching degree programs may provide additional insights. These South Dakota universities with secondary mathematics education degrees represent some of the best math teacher preparation programs in South Dakota, offering targeted pathways for aspiring educators.

This is a chart to illustrate the distribution of high school math teachers:

How do I get certified to teach high school math in South Dakota?

To teach high school math in South Dakota, obtaining proper certification is essential and involves several specific steps. This process ensures you meet the state’s standards for educational competence and readiness.

Certification Exams: Successfully pass two required tests administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS) that assess your knowledge and skills for math teaching.
Online Application: Submit the Initial Certification Application via the South Dakota Department of Education’s online portal, providing the necessary personal and professional details.
Endorsement Specification: Clearly indicate "5800 7-12 Mathematics Education" as your teaching endorsement area to qualify for high school math instruction.
Document Submission: Upload all required paperwork, such as official transcripts, verification of coursework completion from your university, and Praxis exam scores to validate your qualifications.
Application Fee: Pay the mandatory nonrefundable fee when submitting your certification application to cover processing costs.
Additional Coursework: Complete two extra courses mandated by state law, which must be finished before you can start teaching in a classroom setting.

These certification steps reflect South Dakota’s structured approach to ensuring that math educators are well-prepared for the classroom—yet ongoing staffing shortages remain a pressing concern nationwide. The image below illustrates the number of unfilled high school math teacher vacancies across the U.S.

How do I renew my math teaching license in South Dakota?

High school math teachers in South Dakota must follow specific steps to renew their teaching license and maintain their 7-12 Mathematics Education endorsement. Understanding the South Dakota math teacher renewal requirements ensures a smooth renewal process aligned with state standards.

The South Dakota Department of Education manages the renewal process, which requires demonstrating ongoing professional growth through continuing education.

Create an account on the South Dakota Department of Education portal: This is the first step to access renewal applications and submit necessary documents.
Submit official documentation of completed continuing education requirements: Teachers must provide evidence of approved coursework, workshops, or educational activities to meet professional development standards.
Pay the applicable renewal fee: Fees must be paid as part of the application process to cover administrative costs.
Complete the renewal application before your current license expires: Timely submission is essential to avoid any lapse in certification validity.

Initial certification for mathematics teachers in South Dakota is valid for five years, expiring on July 1st. While the exact number of continuing education credits for math teachers is not explicitly defined, South Dakota’s renewal process generally requires evidence of professional growth through approved educational activities. The review period typically takes 2-6 weeks.

Renewing a teaching license in South Dakota follows standardized procedures across disciplines, although math teachers must maintain their specific endorsement qualifications. It is advisable to verify current requirements directly with the Department of Education, as certification regulations can change over time.

For those considering teaching careers, learning about different types of teaching degrees can provide insight into education pathways and professional development opportunities.

Are high school math teachers in high demand in South Dakota?

High school math teachers are currently in strong demand throughout South Dakota, a trend driven by ongoing challenges in staffing and recruitment. This demand is especially pronounced for upper-level math educators, creating promising opportunities for qualified candidates.

Low Teacher Pay: South Dakota ranks near the bottom nationally for educator salaries, which hampers efforts to attract and retain skilled math teachers.
Political and Pandemic Effects: Policy shifts and the lasting impacts of COVID-19 have exacerbated teacher shortages across multiple disciplines, including math.
Teacher Pipeline Issues: Fewer new educators are entering the profession, intensifying gaps in specialized subject areas like high school math.

Unlike other states where demand centers on special education or ESL, South Dakota’s acute need lies in elementary and upper-level math teaching positions. Many school districts are proactively building applicant pools for the 2025–2026 school year, signaling sustained recruitment efforts and strong job prospects for math teachers willing to relocate or remain in the state.

When speaking with a South Dakota high school math teacher about these trends, she reflected on her own experience navigating this landscape. “The shortage is very real—our district actively reached out multiple times before I accepted the role,” she shared.

She also described the hiring process as more personalized than usual, involving conversations about support and resources rather than just credentials. “It felt like they were genuinely invested in helping me succeed, which made a big difference.” Despite the challenges, she finds the work rewarding and enjoys the opportunity to fill a critical need. “Knowing that my skills are in demand here motivates me every day,” she added, highlighting a positive outlook grounded in both challenge and opportunity.

How much do high school math teachers make in South Dakota?

High school math teachers in South Dakota earn an average salary of $52,613 for the 2023-2024 school year. Despite ranking 46th nationally for teacher pay, recent investments have improved the state's standing from 49th.

Several factors influence high school math teacher salaries in South Dakota, including the following:

Experience and education level: Salary schedules reward additional years of service and advanced degrees, making these key to increasing earnings over time.
Geographic location: Teacher pay varies significantly across districts, with starting salaries ranging from $35,000 in Elk Mountain 16-2 (Edgemont) to $53,588 in Oglala Lakota 65-1 (Pine Ridge).
Cost of living adjustment: When factoring in regional price parity of 87.8, the average salary's purchasing power equates to approximately $55,790, slightly reducing the impact of nominal wage differences.

Current job postings show high school math teaching salaries around $52,000 to $53,000 annually. For those considering the path ahead, understanding the math teacher certification timeline and math education degree requirements in South Dakota are essential for planning your career progression. Additionally, if you wonder whether are online masters degrees in educational leadership affordable, this could be a strategic way to enhance your qualifications and salary potential.

How do high school math teachers address diverse student learning needs in South Dakota?

High school math teachers in South Dakota employ targeted strategies to meet varied student abilities and cultural backgrounds. Utilizing data-driven insights and instructional differentiation, educators adapt lesson plans to support both accelerated learners and those requiring additional scaffolding. Incorporating mentoring and professional development opportunities further refines these approaches, ensuring each student’s strengths are nurtured. Programs emphasizing inclusive pedagogy, such as the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in South Dakota, equip teachers with practical tactics for fostering an engaging and equitable learning environment.

What benefits do high school teachers receive in South Dakota?

High school math teachers in South Dakota enjoy a benefits package aimed at securing their financial future and supporting their well-being throughout their careers. The state prioritizes competitive pay and comprehensive support systems.

Competitive Salary: The average annual income for math teachers is approximately $52,613, with a goal to reach $62,045.62 for the 2024-2025 school year, reflecting the state's dedication to fairly compensating educators.
Health Insurance: Teachers receive health coverage that helps manage medical expenses, reducing financial stress related to healthcare needs.
Retirement Contributions: Through the South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS), teachers contribute 6% of their salary annually, matched equally by their employer, enhancing long-term savings.
Defined Benefit Pension: Educators are automatically enrolled in a pension plan providing lifetime income after retirement, calculated based on final average salary, years of service, and a set percentage factor.
Retirement Age and Benefits: Teachers typically retire at age 65, at which point they can access pension benefits designed to replace income reliably throughout retirement.
Additional Leave Benefits: Employment contracts often include paid time off, such as sick leave, supporting a healthy work-life balance and job satisfaction.

Here is an overview of the top work activities that K-12 teachers would like to do:

Can interdisciplinary studies boost teaching effectiveness and career growth in South Dakota?

High school math teachers may enhance their instructional and leadership capacities by integrating interdisciplinary perspectives into their practice. Leveraging complementary fields, such as business and finance, can offer fresh instructional strategies and promote real-world problem-solving skills among students. This broadened approach supports curriculum innovation and opens additional avenues for professional development and mentorship without compromising core mathematical expertise. Exploring opportunities at the best accounting schools in South Dakota can provide valuable insights and practical skills that reinforce a teacher’s capacity to engage diverse learners while advancing their career trajectory.

How can a high school math teacher advance their career in South Dakota?

High school math teachers in South Dakota have several pathways to advance their careers beyond classroom teaching, offering opportunities to develop leadership skills and expand their professional roles.

Leadership Roles within Schools: Teachers can pursue positions such as department chair or grade-level coordinator by demonstrating strong instructional skills and leadership potential, typically requiring several years of teaching experience and often additional training or certification in educational leadership.
Professional Development Programs: Many districts provide access to workshops and certification courses that help teachers specialize in areas like curriculum development or instructional technology, enhancing their qualifications for advanced roles. Participation usually requires endorsement from school administrators.
Transition to Administration: For those interested in school management, becoming an assistant principal or principal is a common path. This requires obtaining a principal certification, which involves completing a master's degree in educational leadership or administration and passing state licensure exams.
Higher Education Teaching: Experienced teachers may transition to teaching math education at community colleges or universities. Requirements typically include a master’s or doctoral degree in mathematics or education, along with teaching experience and sometimes published research.
Curriculum Specialist or Instructional Coach: These roles focus on improving teaching methods and student outcomes district-wide. Candidates usually need advanced coursework in curriculum design and proven success in classroom instruction.

As South Dakota schools increasingly integrate technology into instruction, career advancement may also depend on staying current with innovations in education. The image below highlights how many math teachers have not yet received training in artificial intelligence tools—an emerging area of professional development.

Most math teachers have not received AI training

What are the common challenges for high school math teachers in South Dakota?

Becoming a high school math teacher in South Dakota comes with distinct challenges that affect daily teaching and career sustainability. Understanding these issues helps prospective educators prepare effectively for their roles.

South Dakota teacher shortage math positions: Many schools struggle to fill upper-level math roles due to a statewide teacher shortage. This often leads to larger class sizes and increased workloads, requiring teachers to develop strong time management and multitasking skills to maintain instructional quality.
Math teacher salary challenges South Dakota: The state’s low ranking in teacher pay creates recruitment and retention difficulties. Teachers often supplement their income through tutoring or summer work, while advocating for better compensation through local teacher associations.
Rural district disparities: Rural schools face even more pronounced hiring challenges, which can impact access to qualified math instruction. Teachers in these areas often build close community ties and rely on collaborative networks to share resources and support.
Professional support and mentoring: Due to the demanding environment, teachers benefit greatly from mentoring programs and strong professional development opportunities, which help them navigate the complexities of classroom management and curriculum adaptation.

A South Dakota private school math teacher I spoke with reflected on the emotional and practical challenges of filling curriculum gaps when substitute or specialized teachers were unavailable. They described feeling overwhelmed yet motivated to create tailored lesson plans and peer study groups to boost student engagement. Despite frustrations with limited resources, the teacher found fulfillment in building lasting relationships with students and colleagues, highlighting the importance of resilience and community support in overcoming these obstacles.

For those considering this path, researching the cost of getting teaching degree and focusing on schools with strong mentoring programs can provide crucial advantages in managing these challenges and succeeding as a high school math teacher in South Dakota.

How can I switch careers to become a high school math teacher in South Dakota?

Switching to a career in high school math teaching in South Dakota is a viable option for professionals from other fields. With specific certification routes, individuals can leverage their expertise to enter the classroom.

Complete an Accredited Program: Enroll in and finish a state-approved teacher education program that prepares you for certification requirements.
Pass Required Examinations: Successfully complete one of the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) tests and the content-specific math test relevant to high school teaching.
Obtain Elementary Endorsements (Optional): For those interested in elementary math, passing all four subjects of the Multiple Subjects test or the Content Knowledge for Teaching (CKT) exam allows adding elementary endorsements.
Consider Flexible Permits: South Dakota offers permits like the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Instructor permit, which permits teaching certain CTE courses without a traditional teaching degree, and the Expert Lecturer permit for individuals with specialized professional experience to teach unique courses.
Understand Legal Requirements: Be aware that South Dakota law mandates holding a valid teaching certificate to be employed as a teacher and receive wages for teaching services.

What are the differences between high school and middle school math teacher requirements in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, certification pathways for high school and middle school math teachers diverge in subject focus and instructional approaches. High school educators typically require advanced coursework in mathematical theory and specialized content knowledge, whereas middle school educators place a greater emphasis on developmental pedagogy and strategies for bridging foundational concepts. For further clarification, candidates can review middle school math teacher requirements in South Dakota to understand the distinct criteria and certification processes. This comparison enables prospective educators to align their academic preparation and career objectives with the unique expectations of each teaching level.

What High School Math Teachers in South Dakota Say About Their Careers

Teaching math in South Dakota offers remarkable job stability, which brought me peace of mind when I started my career. The average salaries here are competitive, allowing me to focus on inspiring students without financial stress. I truly feel valued and supported in this community. - Mel
One unique aspect of being a high school math teacher in South Dakota is the opportunity to engage students in real-world problem solving tied to our local industries. The challenges of adapting lessons to rural settings have pushed me to become more creative and resourceful, making every day rewarding. - Enzo
South Dakota's commitment to professional development for educators has been a game changer for my career. The workshops and mentorship programs have deepened my teaching skills and connected me with a network of passionate colleagues. This ongoing growth keeps me motivated and confident in my classroom. - Ced

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a High School Math Teacher in South Dakota

What is the average class size for high school math in South Dakota?

The average class size for high school math in South Dakota typically ranges from 18 to 25 students, though this varies widely based on location and school type. Rural schools often have smaller classes due to lower enrollment, while urban districts may see larger groups. Additionally, public schools might have different class sizes compared to private or charter schools, influenced by funding and resources.

Prospective teachers should research specific districts and consider flexible teaching strategies to manage varying class sizes effectively. Engaging with local education departments can also provide current data and support for navigating these differences.

How many years does it take to be a high school math teacher in South Dakota?

Becoming a high school math teacher in South Dakota typically takes about four to five years. First, aspiring teachers must complete a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or math education, which usually spans four years. Following this, candidates must finish a state-approved teacher preparation program, often integrated into the undergraduate degree, including student teaching experience lasting one semester.

South Dakota offers accelerated programs that combine coursework and licensure requirements, allowing some candidates to become certified in as little as three years. These options are ideal for motivated individuals seeking a faster path into teaching high school math while meeting state standards.

Is it hard to teach math in South Dakota?

Teaching high school math in South Dakota presents moderate challenges balanced by accessible resources. The state follows the South Dakota Content Standards, which provide clear curricular guidelines, helping teachers align lessons effectively. While some rural schools may face limited access to advanced technology, many districts offer professional development and collaborative opportunities to support educators.

High school math teachers often find success by engaging with local education networks and utilizing state-provided tools to address diverse student needs. Adapting to varying grade levels requires solid content knowledge and flexibility, but South Dakota’s supportive environment eases this process. Overall, persistence and resourcefulness are key strategies for overcoming obstacles in this role.

How many hours do math teachers work per week in South Dakota?

High school math teachers in South Dakota typically work between 40 to 50 hours per week. Their daily schedule includes delivering lessons, preparing instructional materials, and grading assignments. Additionally, teachers spend time on administrative duties such as attending faculty meetings, communicating with parents, and participating in professional development.

To manage these demands effectively, it is advisable to plan lessons in advance and utilize time-saving grading tools. Balancing classroom instruction with administrative responsibilities is essential for maintaining productivity and job satisfaction in South Dakota’s educational environment.