Alternative / Online Learning Opportunities
In addition to delivering a high-quality traditional education to resident and open-enrolled students from preschool through 12th grade, the Chester Area School District proudly offers three unique alternative learning pathways for students across South Dakota.
High Plains Alternative Program: A Flexible Path to Graduation for South Dakota Students
The High Plains Alternative Program (HPAP) is a flexible, accredited high school option offered by the Chester Area School District for students across South Dakota. Designed to meet the needs of students seeking a non-traditional path to graduation, HPAP provides coursework either onsite in Chester or fully online, depending on the student’s location.
Key Features:
Open to South Dakota students via open enrollment to the Chester Area School District
Offers a full high school curriculum for grades 9–12
Ideal for students who thrive in a more personalized, flexible learning environment
Interested in Enrolling? Reach out to Dr. Kimberly Kludt at Kim.Kludt@k12.sd.us or call 605-489-2411 for guidance on enrollment and program details.
Chester Area Colony High School: A Flexible Pathway to Graduation for Hutterite Students
The Chester Area Colony High School, formerly known as the Chester Area Cyber School, is a specialized high school program designed to support Hutterite students across South Dakota in earning their high school diploma. This program blends academic rigor with cultural sensitivity, offering a flexible and accessible education tailored to the needs of colony life.
Program Highlights:
Serves Hutterite students in grades 9–12 across South Dakota
Coursework is delivered through a combination of online instruction and colony-based support
Curriculum aligns with South Dakota graduation requirements
Designed to respect and support the unique values and schedules of Hutterite communities
Enrollment Process: Enrollment is coordinated through the colony hierarchy, ensuring that each student’s participation is supported by their local leadership and community.
Want to Learn More? Contact Dr. Kimberly Kludt at Kim.Kludt@k12.sd.us or call 605-489-2411 for details on how your colony can participate.
Virtual Learning Through the South Dakota Center for Virtual Education
The Chester Area School District partners with the South Dakota Center for Virtual Education (SDCVE) to offer high-quality online courses to students across the state. These courses are approved by the South Dakota Department of Education and meet all state graduation requirements.
📌 How It Works:
Students enroll through their home school district via the SDCVE platform.
Courses are delivered online.
Students receive support throughout their learning journey from South Dakota Certified educators.
Courses are aligned to South Dakota Content Standards.
Ideal for students who thrive in a more personalized, flexible learning environment but wish to remain connected to their home district
Visit the link below for more information and to register for courses via the South Dakota Center for Virtual Education.