Desmond AbahWhen it comes to education, South Dakota offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, community-driven learning, and affordable boarding options. Although the state is not as populated with elite prep academies as other parts of the U.S., South Dakota’s boarding schools stand out for their cultural diversity, strong moral foundation, and affordable tuition rates compared to many other states.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top boarding schools in South Dakota, discuss their fees, and highlight what makes each one special. Whether you’re a parent searching for a faith-based education or a student seeking a culturally rich environment, South Dakota has something for everyone.
Top Boarding Schools In South Dakota And Fees
1. Flandreau Indian School (Flandreau, South Dakota)
Grades: 9–12
Type: Federal / Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) Boarding School
Website: fis.bie.edu
The Flandreau Indian School (FIS) is one of South Dakota’s oldest and most respected Native American boarding schools. Operated by the Bureau of Indian Education, the school provides both academic and residential services to Native American students from various tribes across the United States.
FIS offers a balanced program that blends modern education with traditional Native culture, helping students build strong academic foundations while honoring their heritage. The curriculum includes core academic subjects, career and technical training, and extracurricular activities designed to foster leadership and community engagement.
Fees:
Because FIS is federally operated, tuition and boarding are fully subsidized for eligible Native American students. Families may only need to cover small incidental expenses, such as personal items or travel costs.
Why It’s Top-Rated:
- Federal funding ensures high-quality facilities and professional staff.
- A culturally supportive environment for Native students.
- Focus on both academic excellence and personal growth.
2. Marty Indian School (Marty, South Dakota)
Grades: K–12 (Boarding available for grades 7–12)
Type: Tribal / BIE-Affiliated Boarding School
Website: Marty Indian School
Located in the Yankton Sioux Reservation, Marty Indian School is a tribally controlled institution that emphasizes the integration of cultural teachings and academic achievement. The school’s mission is to prepare Native American youth for success while keeping them connected to their roots.
Students engage in classes that incorporate tribal history, Lakota language, and modern STEM subjects, giving them both a cultural and academic edge. Boarding facilities are available for middle and high school students, providing a supportive and family-like environment.
Fees:
Like most BIE or tribally operated schools, boarding is either free or heavily subsidized for eligible Native American students. Additional costs may include uniforms, extracurricular activity fees, or transportation.
Why It’s Top-Rated:
- Offers both cultural preservation and high school diploma programs.
- Focus on leadership, respect, and community.
- Safe and structured boarding facilities.
3. St. Joseph’s Indian School (Chamberlain, South Dakota)
Grades: 1–12
Type: Catholic / Religious Boarding School
Website: St. Joseph’s Indian School
St. Joseph’s Indian School has served Native American children for more than a century, offering education grounded in Catholic faith and Lakota culture. The school provides a nurturing environment that supports the spiritual, emotional, and academic development of every child.
Students live in family-style homes, overseen by caring houseparents, creating a strong sense of community and belonging. The curriculum balances academics with cultural studies, art, and physical education.
Fees:
The school is supported by donors and sponsors, allowing most students to attend at little to no cost. Families are encouraged to apply for financial aid or scholarship programs that cover boarding and educational expenses.
Why It’s Top-Rated:
- Deeply rooted in faith and compassion.
- Family-oriented living model.
- Focus on holistic child development—spiritual, emotional, and academic.
4. Sunshine Bible Academy (Miller, South Dakota)
Grades: 7–12
Type: Christian Boarding & Day School
Website: Sunshine Bible Academy
For families seeking a Christian-focused education, Sunshine Bible Academy (SBA) is one of South Dakota’s premier boarding institutions. The school combines rigorous academics with spiritual growth and character development, preparing students to live purposeful, faith-driven lives.
SBA offers both day and boarding options, with students living in modern dormitories on a sprawling rural campus. The environment promotes self-discipline, leadership, and service, with daily chapel services and mission programs.
Tuition and Fees (current Estimates):
- Day Student Tuition: $7,700 per year
- 5-Day Boarding: $11,018 per year
- 7-Day Boarding: $12,092 per year
- International Boarding: $18,140 per year
Why It’s Top-Rated:
- Affordable boarding compared to national averages.
- Strong Christian environment with excellent academics.
- Emphasis on leadership, morality, and lifelong learning.
5. Freeman Academy (Freeman, South Dakota)
Grades: K–12 (Boarding for grades 7–12)
Type: Private Christian / Independent School
Website: Freeman Academy
Freeman Academy offers a personalized, Christ-centered education that focuses on academic rigor, creativity, and community involvement. Founded on Mennonite principles, the school encourages intellectual curiosity and spiritual growth.
Boarding students benefit from small class sizes, close mentoring relationships, and involvement in arts, sports, and leadership programs. The school also emphasizes global citizenship through cultural exchange and international student programs.
Tuition and Fees:
- Day Tuition: Around $9,174 per year
- Boarding Tuition: Approximately $17,849 per year
Why It’s Top-Rated:
- Strong Christian values and small student-to-teacher ratio.
- Diverse extracurricular programs.
- Excellent college preparation and family-like atmosphere.
6. Pierre Indian Learning Center (Pierre, South Dakota)
Grades: 1–8
Type: Tribal / BIE Residential School
Website: Pierre Indian Learning Center
The Pierre Indian Learning Center (PILC) is another highly respected boarding institution that focuses on serving Native American children in their formative years. Its mission is to support students academically, emotionally, and culturally while preparing them for success in higher grades.
PILC provides a safe, nurturing, and culturally grounded environment where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Students participate in sports, traditional ceremonies, and language programs.
Fees:
Because it is federally and tribally funded, boarding is free for eligible Native American students. The school covers meals, housing, and educational materials.
Why It’s Top-Rated:
- Dedicated to nurturing Native American identity and values.
- Strong residential and academic structure for young learners.
- Focused on whole-child education and wellness.
Average Boarding School Fees in South Dakota
Compared to other U.S. states, South Dakota offers some of the most affordable boarding education options. Below is a general breakdown of average fees:
| Type of School | Average Annual Cost (Tuition + Boarding) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tribal / BIE Schools | $0 – $5,000 (often free) | Subsidized by federal or tribal funding |
| Faith-Based Private Schools | $11,000 – $18,000 | Includes housing, meals, and tuition |
| International Boarding Students | $18,000 – $25,000 | May include insurance, visa support, etc. |
Families are encouraged to contact schools directly for current fee schedules, as rates may vary annually.
How to Choose the Right Boarding School in South Dakota
Choosing the best boarding school involves more than just comparing fees. Parents should consider the following factors:
- Type of School: Decide between a Christian, tribal, or independent school based on your child’s values and goals.
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by the BIE or the South Dakota Department of Education.
- Curriculum Strength: Check for strong academic programs and college prep options.
- Student Support: Look for counseling, mentorship, and extracurricular opportunities.
- Cultural Fit: Consider schools that respect and reinforce your family’s cultural or spiritual background.
- Financial Aid Options: Many schools provide scholarships or tuition assistance programs.
Benefits of Attending a Boarding School in South Dakota
- Affordable Quality Education: Lower tuition compared to national averages.
- Cultural Enrichment: Especially valuable for Native American students reconnecting with their heritage.
- Safe, Rural Environments: Peaceful settings ideal for focused study and personal growth.
- Holistic Development: Emphasis on spiritual, emotional, and academic development.
- Strong Sense of Community: Students build lifelong friendships and networks.
Related
- Top 10 Boarding Schools In South Carolina And Fees (2025)
- Top 8 Boarding Schools In Seattle And Fees (2025)
Conclusion
While South Dakota may not have the vast number of boarding schools seen in states like Massachusetts or California, its schools offer something far more meaningful—community, culture, and character development. From the heritage-rich halls of Flandreau Indian School to the faith-based nurturing of Sunshine Bible Academy, these institutions equip students with the tools to succeed in life both academically and personally.
If you’re seeking an affordable yet high-quality boarding education that values tradition, respect, and excellence, South Dakota’s boarding schools are well worth exploring.