Best Elementary Schools in South Dakota (2026 List)

South Dakota's welcoming and community-oriented learning environment provides a wonderful opportunity for families looking for top elementary schools. Aided by the high number of public elementary schools, and the strong presence of both urban and rural school districts within the state, South Dakota is focused on helping students learn in a way that works for them, as well as provide an experience where students can build relationships in smaller classrooms. Many of these schools are implementing digital learning plans, as well as providing opportunities for hands-on work in STEM fields, and by providing support for community-enhanced education efforts to enhance early childhood education. South Dakota also provides families with access to many resources that are open to the public through Open.SD.gov, allowing families to make informed choices about schools with confidence. By creating opportunities for student success, developing new models for innovative education, and promoting equitable access to a quality education through public education, the elementary education system is a very strong contender for being a leader in the United States when it comes to educational opportunities for students.