For the 2026 school year, there is 1 public preschool serving 164 students in Mellette County, SD.
The top-ranked public preschool in Mellette County, SD is White River Elementary - 02. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Mellette County, SD public preschool have an average math proficiency score of 15% (versus the South Dakota public pre school average of 44%), and reading proficiency score of 22% (versus the 45% statewide average). Pre schools in Mellette County have an average ranking of 1/10, which is in the bottom 50% of South Dakota public pre schools.
Minority enrollment is 84% of the student body (majority American Indian), which is more than the South Dakota public preschool average of 34% (majority American Indian and Hispanic).
Best Public Preschools in Mellette County (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
White River Elementary - 02
(Math: 11-19% | Reading: 20-24%)
Rank:
Rank:
1/
Bottom 50%10
501 E 3rd St
White River, SD 57579
(605) 259-3137
White River, SD 57579
(605) 259-3137
Gr: PK-5 | 164 students Student-teacher ratio: 10:1 Minority enrollment: 84%
Mellette County 51±¬ÁÏs (Closed)
School
Location
Quick Facts
S 2nd And Brock St
White River, SD 57579
(605) 259-3137
White River, SD 57579
(605) 259-3137
Gr: K-5 | 3 students Student-teacher ratio: 3:1 Minority enrollment: 67%
White River Alternative High School - 09 (Closed 2014)
Alternative School
501 East 3rd St
Norris, SD 57560
(605) 259-3135
Norris, SD 57560
(605) 259-3135
Gr: 9-12
114 S. Dakota St.
Wood, SD 57585
(605) 452-3251
Wood, SD 57585
(605) 452-3251
Gr: PK-8 | 24 students Student-teacher ratio: 6:1 Minority enrollment: 29%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public preschools in Mellette County, SD?
The top-ranked public preschools in Mellette County, SD include White River Elementary - 02.
How many public preschools are located in Mellette County?
1 public preschools are located in Mellette County.
What is the racial composition of students in Mellette County?
Mellette County public preschools minority enrollment is 84% of the student body (majority American Indian), which is more than the South Dakota public preschools average of 34% (majority American Indian and Hispanic).
Recent Articles
No Child Left Behind: Past, Present, and Future of U.S. School Policy
Explore how No Child Left Behind evolved into ESSA, what it means for 2025‑26 schooling, and what parents need to know about testing, admissions planning, and funding.
Understanding 51±¬ÁÏ Fees & Optional Costs Guide
Discover what public school fees are required versus optional, with 2026 updates for parents, students, and educators on budgeting and planning.
Extracurricular Sign‑Ups: How to Choose Clubs, Sports, & Activities
Expert guidance for students and parents on choosing extracurricular clubs, sports, and activities ahead of term start with updated 2026 perspectives.