South Dakota Lacks State-Funded Preschool, Joining Five Other States
South Dakota is one of five states in the United States that does not offer state-funded preschool programs, according to a recent national report. The other states without such programs include Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and New Hampshire. This number has significantly decreased from 10 states in 2012, showing a gradual shift toward expanding early education opportunities across the country.
The National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) released a new report highlighting the progress and challenges in early childhood education. According to the report, 44 states and Washington, D.C., have preschool programs that meet NIEER’s definition of a state-funded preschool program. However, Indiana’s program does not meet this standard due to its requirement for parental work or school attendance.
National Trends in Preschool Enrollment and Funding
Nationally, 37% of 4-year-olds are enrolled in state-funded preschool programs. In the 2024-2025 school year, states spent nearly $14.4 billion on preschool programs, reflecting the growing recognition of the importance of early education.
Steve Barnett, director of the National Institute for Early Education Research, emphasized the long-term benefits of investing in preschool programs. He stated that such investments can lead to a “better future for children and taxpayers.”
In South Dakota, Barnett called for increased investment in preschool access and quality to help more families prepare their 3- and 4-year-olds for school and life success. He noted that the state lags behind its neighbors in publicly funded early education opportunities.
Challenges in South Dakota’s Early Education System
According to a 2025 report from the National Survey of Children’s Health, about 58% of parents in South Dakota say their children ages 3 to 5 years old are ready for school. This percentage is among the lowest in the nation, indicating a need for improved early education resources.
Early child education needs in South Dakota are primarily met through private and faith-based programs, school districts, and the national Head Start program, which serves low-income children. However, these programs face significant challenges, particularly in areas with high demand.
In the Sioux Falls School District, nearly 400 children are on waiting lists to participate in early childhood programs. This highlights the gap between the available resources and the actual needs of the community.
The Role of Nonprofit News Organizations
South Dakota Searchlight, the source of this information, is part of States Newsroom, the nation’s largest state-focused nonprofit news organization. Through its reporting, South Dakota Searchlight aims to provide accurate and timely information to the public.
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