The bill amends existing provisions related to the requirements for students receiving alternative instruction in South Dakota. It revises Section 13-3-55 to specify that a school district must administer state-designated academic achievement assessments to each student in grades three to eight and grade eleven. The secretary of the Department of Education is tasked with designating at least two grade levels for writing skills assessments, which must measure academic progress and align with state content standards. Additionally, the bill clarifies that students enrolled in the district, partially enrolled, or receiving alternative instruction must take these assessments.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 13-27-7 to require that notifications of alternative instruction must declare that the child will receive such instruction and include specific information about the child. It establishes deadlines for filing notifications, including within thirty days of starting alternative instruction or any changes in the child's school district. The bill also repeals Section 13-3-84, which previously outlined requirements for students partially enrolled in a school district regarding academic achievement tests. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the assessment process and clarify the responsibilities of parents and school districts regarding alternative instruction.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/27/2026: 13-3-55, 13-27-7, 13-3-84