Explore Online Learning Options for K-12 Students in South Dakota
Black Hills Online Learning Community (BHOLC) is a service to participating South Dakota school districts to support K-12 students with a self-paced, online education option.
Partnering with South Dakota School Districts For:
Online K-12 Courses
- Core Courses
- World Language
- Electives
- Credit Recovery
Comprehensive Learning
- Certified Teachers
- 100% Online
- Flexible Pace
- 24/7 Access
Aligned to South Dakota Standards. Approved by South Dakota Department of Education.
Reaching Students Since 2012
Course Enrollments
Districts
Students Served
FAQ's
What is BHOLC?
Black Hills Online Learning Community is an online education program using an innovative educational model to provide students with the best learning experience possible. Our program is administered by Compass Partners in Learning, which is a division of the Black Hills Special Services Cooperative, in cooperation with participating public schools in South Dakota.
Students stay enrolled in their home district, where they follow local graduation and testing requirements. They complete BHOLC’s self-paced online courses with support from certified facilitators and participate in state testing each spring at their enrolled school in grades 3-8 and 11.
Who is BHOLC for?
Designed for K-12 students in South Dakota who are:
- Self-motivated and independent learners
- Able to manage time and stay organized
- Comfortable with computers and internet tools
- Committed to online learning success
What does it cost to attend?
Typically there is no cost for families, however you must verify this with your individual school district. The program is funded through partnerships with South Dakota public schools. Students must be enrolled in a partnering school district to participate and obtain permission from the district.
Who is eligible to enroll?
The program supports student in grades K-12, who are enrolled in a participating public school districts. Public school districts must give permission for students to participate.
Are students in BHOLC considered home-schooled?
No. Students in the program are public school students who are receiving their instruction in a different way. Participating families do not need to complete the home school application.
Does BHOLC provide technology for students?
No. Families are responsible for providing the equipment and internet service in order to access the online curriculum.
Can students be dual-enrolled in the program and their resident school?
This is up to each district. Each will have its own regulations and eligibility requirements.
How is my student placed in a course? What assessments are required?
The Black Hills Online Learning Community generally places students according to their current grade level. BHOLC students will be expected to participate in all assessments required by the South Dakota Department of Education. This includes traveling to test on site according to the local school districts testing schedule.
What services are offered for special education students?
If the student has an individualized education program (IEP), the family must work with the district to determine how services may be provided and student needs met in an online learning environment.
Can BHOLC students participate in other traditional school activities?
Districts have different policies about onsite participation, so please refer to your home district for specifics. As much as possible, we encourage parents and students to take advantage of after-school programs, school libraries, outdoor learning centers, computer labs and other experiences your community has to offer.
What is the time requirement?
Our school year for K-8 is September through May. High School students may take courses through July. However, there is not a specific daily schedule for BHOLC learners. Students are expected to move through their coursework in the same manner as if they were attending their local school, even though their overall schedule might be more flexible. Student progress through coursework is carefully monitored.
Can students switch between online and in-person learning?
Yes. Once a student is enrolled full-time in BHOLC, families must work with their district to transition back to in person learning. Hybrid (in person and virtual) learning options are available if approved by the district.