How to Become a Teacher Online in South Dakota for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Many aspiring educators in South Dakota struggle to navigate the process of becoming certified to teach online, missing key steps and requirements. Currently, South Dakota reports a teacher shortage, with over 10% of classrooms staffed by substitute or uncertified teachers. Pursuing an online teaching career offers flexibility and access to a growing market, especially in rural areas.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, outlines clear requirements, certification pathways, and practical strategies to help candidates successfully launch an online teaching career in South Dakota for 2025.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Teacher Online in South Dakota

• While local demand for online teachers in South Dakota is modest, national growth is projected at 12% through 2030, offering broader remote opportunities.
• Online teachers in South Dakota earn between $31,900 and $54,800 annually, with some positions reaching up to $63,593 in specialized areas.
• To teach online in South Dakota, educators must hold a bachelor’s degree, complete a state-approved teacher preparation program, pass Praxis exams, and complete a 3-credit South Dakota Indian Studies course.

Table of Contents

1. What are the minimum educational requirements to become an online teacher in South Dakota?
2. What skills are essential for success as a teacher online?
3. What is the average salary of online teachers in South Dakota?
4. How do online teacher preparation programs and student teaching experiences work in South Dakota?
5. What are the licensing and certification requirements for online teachers in South Dakota?
6. What is the job outlook for online teachers in South Dakota?
7. What are the main challenges that online teachers face in South Dakota?
8. Are there continuing education or license renewal requirements for online teachers in South Dakota?
9. Can you become an online teacher without a traditional education degree in South Dakota?
10. What is the most cost-effective pathway to obtain your online teaching credential in South Dakota?
11. What are the current trends in online teaching and education in South Dakota?
12. What steps should you take to start your online teaching career in South Dakota?
13. What additional certifications can bolster your expertise as an online teacher in South Dakota?
14. Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a Teacher Online in South Dakota

What are the minimum educational requirements to become an online teacher in South Dakota?

To become an online teacher in South Dakota, educators must meet several academic and experiential benchmarks established by the South Dakota Department of Education. Below are the minimum educational requirements to become an online teacher in South Dakota:

• Bachelor’s Degree from an Accredited Institution: Candidates must earn a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university, either in education or in the subject they wish to teach.
• Completion of an Approved Teacher Preparation Program: A state-approved educator preparation program must be completed. These programs include coursework in pedagogy, classroom management, and educational psychology.
• Supervised Student Teaching or Apprenticeship: A hands-on teaching practicum is required to ensure real-world experience in classroom or virtual instruction.
• Pass Required Certification Exams: Applicants must pass the Praxis Content Knowledge Exams and the Praxis Performance Assessment for Teachers (PPAT).
• South Dakota Indian Studies Course: A unique state requirement, this three-credit-hour course must be completed with a grade of C or higher.
• Written Program Recommendation: A formal recommendation from the teacher preparation program is required, verifying degree completion and endorsement areas.
• Preparation for Online Teaching: While not a separate requirement, experience with digital tools and remote instruction methods is expected within training.

To explore programs that meet these educational requirements for teaching in South Dakota, consider the rankings of the best bachelors in education online. This resource can help identify accredited institutions offering flexible options tailored to aspiring online educators.

What skills are essential for success as a teacher online?

Teaching online demands a specialized set of skills that support effective instruction, student engagement, and adaptability in a digital environment. Educators must be equipped to manage both technology and learning outcomes with confidence. Here are the essential skills for success as an online teacher:

1. Digital Literacy and Technology Integration

Proficiency in educational technologies is fundamental. Teachers must be skilled in using Learning Management Systems (LMS), video conferencing platforms, and digital assessment tools. South Dakota’s professional development initiatives emphasize building technology and data analysis capabilities to support effective lesson delivery and real-time progress monitoring.

2. Communication and Student Engagement

Strong communication strategies are essential for conveying complex information and maintaining student engagement. Educators should create inclusive virtual communities using interactive tools and provide consistent, timely feedback. Addressing both academic and social-emotional needs remotely is critical to fostering a supportive learning environment.

3. Instructional Design and Adaptability

Effective online instruction requires designing accessible, interactive lessons aligned with academic standards. Teachers are encouraged to implement strategies promoted by South Dakota’s Teacher Leadership Academy, including explicit instruction and active learning, to accommodate diverse learning preferences and sustain student interest.

4. Data-Driven Decision Making

Analyzing student performance data is vital in online settings where visual cues are limited. South Dakota’s Department of Education offers training in data literacy to help teachers tailor instruction, adjust pacing, and implement targeted interventions based on actionable insights.

5. Leadership and Collaboration

Virtual educators must take on leadership roles by promoting student autonomy and working collaboratively with peers. Programs such as the Dakota Dreams Teacher Leadership Academy provide essential training in teamwork, communication, and educational leadership, enhancing professional impact within digital learning environments.

What is the average salary of online teachers in South Dakota?

Online teachers in South Dakota typically earn between $15.32 and $26.36 per hour, with an average of $25.03. On a full-time basis, this translates to annual earnings ranging from approximately $31,900 to $54,800, depending on workload and employer. In some specialized cases, such as online elementary teaching roles in locations like Sturgis, salaries can reach as high as $63,593 annually. 

While the average is relatively competitive within South Dakota, the median salary often leans toward the lower end, suggesting many educators enter the field at modest pay levels. Nationally, South Dakota ranks last for online teaching compensation, well below both the national average and the state’s traditional teacher salaries, which average $56,328. Exploring accredited education degrees online may also enhance your qualifications and improve salary prospects.

How do online teacher preparation programs and student teaching experiences work in South Dakota?

South Dakota offers online teacher preparation pathways that balance academic flexibility with essential in-person teaching practice. Below are the key components of how these programs function in South Dakota:

• Enrollment in State-Approved Online Programs: Candidates must enroll in a regionally accredited online education degree program approved by the South Dakota Board of Education Standards.
• Completion of Online Coursework: Coursework is typically offered asynchronously, with many programs providing in-state tuition rates and flexible scheduling.
• Year-Long Student Teaching Requirement: All candidates must complete at least one full academic year of in-person teaching, gaining direct experience in K–12 classrooms.
• Passing Required Praxis Exams: The Praxis Content Knowledge and PPAT exams must be passed before student teaching begins.
• Supervised Classroom Placements: Universities coordinate placements where candidates work under licensed educators to apply theory in real teaching environments.
• Alternative Certification Pathways: Options like the General Education Alternative, CTE, or Teach for America allow candidates to teach while completing online preparation.
• State Oversight and Program Quality Reviews: Programs undergo regular reviews to ensure they meet South Dakota’s high standards for educator preparation.

What are the licensing and certification requirements for online teachers in South Dakota?

Online teachers in South Dakota must fulfill the same certification standards as traditional classroom teachers. These requirements are designed to ensure all educators are well-prepared to teach effectively, regardless of the instructional format.

Below are the key licensing and certification requirements for online teachers in South Dakota:

• State Certification: All teachers must be certified through the South Dakota Department of Education, regardless of whether they teach online or in person.
• Exams and Assessments: Candidates must pass the Praxis exams, which evaluate general teaching knowledge and subject-specific skills.
• Background Checks: A full background check is required for all applicants to promote student safety in school environments.
• South Dakota Indian Studies Course: New teachers must complete a three-credit course in South Dakota Indian studies with at least a C grade by July 1, 2025. A provisional certificate may be issued for two years if not yet completed.
• Continuing Education: Teachers must pursue ongoing professional development to stay current with educational methods and tools.
• No Separate Online License: There is no distinct certification for online teaching; the same licensing path applies.
• Certification Renewal: Regular renewal is required, and continued learning is expected throughout a teacher’s career.

For those interested in starting a career in this field, exploring affordable online elementary education programs can be a helpful step toward meeting South Dakota teacher certification requirements.

What is the job outlook for online teachers in South Dakota?

South Dakota offers limited opportunities for online teachers due to low statewide pay and fewer local openings. However, national trends show increasing demand for virtual educators, offering South Dakota teachers a pathway to broader, more flexible careers and access to jobs for education degree holders.

Below are the key factors shaping the job outlook for online teachers in South Dakota:

• Limited Local Openings: South Dakota's market for online teaching remains small, with fewer vacancies and lower average pay compared to other states.
• Decline in Traditional Roles: Shrinking demand for in-person teachers within the state underscores a broader shift, highlighting the importance of adapting to virtual models.
• National Growth Projection: Online teaching roles are projected to grow by 12% nationally through 2030, offering expanded opportunities on remote platforms.
• Remote Work Potential: South Dakota educators can tap into national markets by pursuing remote teaching roles and online learning platforms that offer higher wages and flexibility.

What are the main challenges that online teachers face in South Dakota?

Online educators in South Dakota face several obstacles that impact instructional quality, technological access, and long-term professional growth. Below are the main challenges that affect online teachers in the state:

• Unreliable Internet Access: Many rural areas lack strong broadband infrastructure, which can lead to interrupted instruction and reduced student participation in online classes.
• Inconsistent Technical Support: Teachers and students often have limited access to technical help and updated devices, requiring educators to manage their own troubleshooting and advocate for better resources.
• Limited Professional Development: Geographic isolation can make it difficult to attend in-person training, so online educators must seek virtual workshops to stay updated on teaching tools and strategies.
• Blurred Work-Life Boundaries: Online teaching can extend into personal time, making it important for teachers to establish firm schedules to maintain well-being and avoid burnout.
• Restricted Career Growth: Opportunities for advancement may be fewer in online roles, so educators are encouraged to pursue additional certifications or leadership roles to expand their career paths.

Are there continuing education or license renewal requirements for online teachers in South Dakota?

Online teachers in South Dakota are required to complete continuing education to renew their teaching licenses every five years. The state offers flexible options to support professional growth and license maintenance.

Below are the key requirements online educators must meet:

• Credit Requirements: Teachers must earn six education-related credits, which can include college coursework, CECHs, or approved professional development.
• Common Credit Combinations: A typical renewal path includes three transcripted college credits and 45 continuing education contact hours.
• Flexibility for Advanced Degrees: Educators with advanced degrees may complete any combination of six qualifying credits to meet renewal criteria.
• Alternative Pathways: Mentorship roles in approved programs and National Board Certification may also satisfy renewal requirements.
• Renewal Timeline and Platform: All licenses expire on July 1 of the renewal year, and applications are submitted through the South Dakota Educator Portal starting January 1.

Can you become an online teacher without a traditional education degree in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, you can become an online teacher without a traditional education degree through limited teaching permits. These permits allow professionals with specialized skills to teach specific courses but do not offer full certification for general classroom teaching.

Below are the available permit options:

• Career and Technical Education (CTE) Instructor Permit: Allows industry professionals to teach vocational or technical subjects. It does not lead to full licensure and is limited to the endorsed content area.
• Expert Lecturer Permit: Intended for specialists with expertise in niche fields to teach unique courses. This permit also restricts teaching authority to a specific subject.
• Meet Training Requirements: Both permits require a minimum of 60 minutes of suicide awareness and prevention training.
• Understand Limitations: These permits do not substitute for a standard teaching license and are only valid for designated courses.
• Follow Legal Requirements: All paid teaching roles require a valid South Dakota certificate or permit, working without one is not allowed.
• New Rule for 2025: Starting July 1, 2025, all new educators must complete a three-credit South Dakota Indian studies course.

What is the most cost-effective pathway to obtain your online teaching credential in South Dakota?

South Dakota offers several affordable options for earning an online teaching credential without incurring excessive costs. Educators should compare accredited programs that blend flexible online instruction with essential practical components while assessing available state-sponsored scholarships and alternative licensing pathways. In doing so, you can meet certification standards while optimizing your financial investment—learn about the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in South Dakota for a cost-effective approach that aligns with state requirements.

What are the current trends in online teaching and education in South Dakota?

Online education in South Dakota is expanding rapidly to meet the demands of a shifting workforce and student population. Institutions are investing in accessibility, program relevance, and flexible delivery to support modern learners and educators alike.

Below are the current trends shaping online teaching and education in South Dakota:

• Expansion and Diversification of Online Programs: The number of fully online programs more than doubled from 2017 to 2021. Business, health professions, and education remain top focus areas, offering strong pathways for aspiring online educators.
• Increasing Accessibility and Flexible Delivery Modes: HyFlex models, like those at Northern State University, allow students to choose between in-person, online, or hybrid learning. This flexibility supports rural learners and addresses K–12 teacher shortages through statewide e-learning initiatives.
• Enrollment Growth and Affordability Initiatives: Public university enrollment has grown for three straight years, supported by long-term tuition freezes. These measures improve access and attract a broader student base to online programs.
• Alignment with Workforce Needs: Online curricula are being tailored to meet labor market demands in fields such as nursing, marketing, and computer science. Online educators with expertise in these areas are increasingly in demand across the state.

What steps should you take to start your online teaching career in South Dakota?

Starting an online teaching career in South Dakota requires understanding specific state mandates and aligning your credentials with growing educational needs. Following these structured steps will help you meet certification standards and position yourself for success in virtual teaching roles.

Below are the key steps to begin your career:

1. Fulfill the South Dakota Indian Studies Requirement: Complete a three-credit course in South Dakota Indian Studies with a grade of C or higher. This is required for all new teachers starting July 1, 2025, including those applying through reciprocity.
2. Maintain a Valid South Dakota Teaching Certificate: A current state teaching certificate is essential. Renew it every five years and complete mandatory suicide awareness and prevention training.
3. Explore Alternative Certification Options: Consider permits such as the CTE Instructor or Expert Lecturer options. These are useful for teaching specialized or technical content online.
4. Apply to Accredited Online or Hybrid Programs: Seek roles within districts or institutions that offer virtual learning. Emphasize your understanding of state-specific requirements during the application process.
5. Pursue Professional Development in Online Teaching: Build your skills in digital instruction and culturally responsive teaching. These are valued in meeting South Dakota’s diverse learning needs.
6. Stay Informed on State Policy Changes: Monitor updates from the South Dakota Department of Education to ensure continued compliance with new requirements and teaching standards.

What do online teachers in South Dakota say about their careers?

• Teaching online in South Dakota has given me a new appreciation for the power of connection. I work with students from farming towns, reservations, and small cities, all in one digital space. The state has done a good job building up support for online teachers, and I’ve been able to access training and tools that help me stay effective. Marion
• What I love most about teaching online here in South Dakota is the strong sense of purpose. Many of my students live in areas where access to education is limited, so being that consistent voice in their lives means everything. I’ve built strong relationships with families and seen firsthand how flexibility in learning can change lives. Charles
• South Dakota might be a rural state, but our online classrooms are full of life. I’ve had the chance to teach students hundreds of miles apart, and still create real engagement through structured lessons, live sessions, and meaningful feedback. What makes this job special is knowing I’m part of something that levels the playing field for kids who don’t have a school down the street. Hazel

What additional certifications can bolster your expertise as an online teacher in South Dakota?

Online educators looking to diversify their credentials should consider pursuing supplementary certifications tailored to evolving educational demands. For instance, those interested in early childhood instruction can explore specialized credentials that focus on foundational learning and innovative digital pedagogy. Such additional endorsements not only validate teaching proficiency but also open career pathways into niche areas, such as how to become a kindergarten teacher in South Dakota. These certifications typically involve targeted training modules and competency assessments recognized by state authorities, ultimately enhancing instructional effectiveness and career mobility in South Dakota's competitive online education landscape.

Other Things You Need to Know About How to Become a Teacher Online in South Dakota

Can I specialize in a particular subject or student group as an online teacher in South Dakota?

Yes, online teachers in South Dakota may specialize in specific academic subjects or student populations. Many virtual teaching roles focus on areas such as mathematics, science, or language arts, while others serve groups like special education students, gifted learners, or adults.

Specialization generally requires subject-specific credentials or endorsements that align with state certification standards. This focused expertise can enhance instructional effectiveness and employment opportunities, supporting South Dakota’s goal of meeting diverse online educational needs.

What financial assistance or loan forgiveness programs are available for online teachers in South Dakota?

Online educators in South Dakota may qualify for various financial support programs. The South Dakota Teacher Forgiveness Program offers loan repayment assistance for those teaching in designated high-need areas, including virtual education. Additionally, the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program is available to qualifying teachers employed full-time by public institutions.

State-sponsored scholarships and grants may also support educators in rural or underserved communities. Applicants should review eligibility criteria and deadlines to ensure access to available financial assistance.

Are there teaching opportunities for international online educators in South Dakota?

Yes, international educators may find online teaching opportunities in South Dakota. Many schools and platforms offer remote positions that can be filled by qualified candidates residing outside the United States. However, these roles typically require valid teaching credentials and may necessitate certification recognized in South Dakota.

Compliance with visa or work authorization regulations is also essential. Online teaching opportunities may include K–12 virtual schools, higher education, or private institutions. Prospective educators should verify institutional requirements and ensure their qualifications meet applicable standards.

What are the requirements for teaching adult learners or in nontraditional settings in South Dakota?

Teaching adult learners in South Dakota typically requires a valid state teaching license relevant to the subject area. Additional certifications or endorsements in adult education or alternative instruction may be necessary, depending on the program. Experience with adult learners and familiarity with online or hybrid teaching methods are strongly encouraged.

All educators must pass a background check and adhere to state regulatory standards. Ongoing professional development is valued to maintain effective instruction and support the unique needs of nontraditional student populations.

References:

• Educational Opportunities - South Dakota Early Childhood Enrichment. (n.d.). Retrieved from SDECE
• Erieri.com. (n.d.). Online secondary school teacher salary in Mitchell, South Dakota, United States. Retrieved from Erieri
• Northern State University. (n.d.). Continuing education | Northern State University in South Dakota. Retrieved from Northern State University
• Renew a Teaching License. (n.d.). Continuing education contact hour/renewal credit courses - Renew a teaching license from professional learning board. Retrieved from Renew a Teaching License
• South Dakota Department of Education. (2024, May 1). Teach SD. Retrieved from Teach SD
• South Dakota Searchlight. (2025, April 30). South Dakota rises to its highest-ever rank in teacher pay: 46th. Retrieved from South Dakota Searchlight
• South Dakota State University. (n.d.). Early childhood education program details. Retrieved from SD State
• SDEA. (n.d.). Teaching & learning. Retrieved from SDEA
• University of South Dakota. (n.d.). Continuing education. Retrieved from USD
• University of Sioux Falls. (n.d.). Online continuing education courses - distance learning for teachers - professional development for teachers. Retrieved from USF