For the 2025-26 school year, there are 2 public preschools serving 611 students in Hamlin County, SD.
The top-ranked public preschools in Hamlin County, SD are Hamlin Elementary - 09 and Castlewood Elementary - 02. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Hamlin County, SD public preschools have an average math proficiency score of 62% (versus the South Dakota public pre school average of 44%), and reading proficiency score of 56% (versus the 45% statewide average). Pre schools in Hamlin County have an average ranking of 8/10, which is in the top 30% of South Dakota public pre schools.
Minority enrollment is 5% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public preschool average of 34% (majority American Indian and Hispanic).
Best Public Preschools in Hamlin County (2025-26)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Hamlin Elementary - 09
(Math: 60-64% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
44577 188th St
Hayti, SD 57241
(605) 783-3631
Hayti, SD 57241
(605) 783-3631
Gr: PK-5 | 467 students Student-teacher ratio: 16:1 Minority enrollment: 5%
Rank: #22.
Castlewood Elementary - 02
(Math: 60-64% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
310 E Harry St
Castlewood, SD 57223
(605) 793-2497
Castlewood, SD 57223
(605) 793-2497
Gr: PK-5 | 144 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 6%
Hamlin County Public Schools (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
404 6th St N
Estelline, SD 57234
(605) 873-2201
Estelline, SD 57234
(605) 873-2201
Gr: PK-5 | 136 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 22%
Ne Ed Services Cooperative - 01 (Closed 2009)
Special Education School
310 5th St
Hayti, SD 57241
(605) 783-3607
Hayti, SD 57241
(605) 783-3607
Gr: K-12
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public preschools in Hamlin County, SD?
The top-ranked public preschools in Hamlin County, SD include Hamlin Elementary - 09 and Castlewood Elementary - 02.
How many public preschools are located in Hamlin County?
2 public preschools are located in Hamlin County.
What is the racial composition of students in Hamlin County?
Hamlin County public preschools minority enrollment is 5% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is less than the South Dakota public preschools average of 34% (majority American Indian and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Are Public Schools Ready for the 21st Century? 2025 Update
Explore 2025 insights on whether public schools are ready for the 21st century, covering performance, technology, equity, funding, and future-ready learning.
Public School Open House & Enrollment Season Guide
A parent-focused guide to the public school open house and enrollment season, with expert questions, timelines, and decision tips.