An overview of discussion items and major decisions of the Board of Education of School District No. 8 (Kootenay Lake). For meeting agendas/minutes and a schedule of upcoming board meetings visit sd8.bc.ca/meetings . 

Online Learning Continuous Learning Report 2024-2025

District Principal Ken Wiens and District Teacher Coordinator Jeff Yasinchuk presented the Online Learning Continuous Learning Report. The report highlights the district’s Elev8 DESK and Elev8 Homelinks programs, which continue to grow as a Provincial Online Learning School. Notable successes include increased enrolment and effective support for diverse learners, including Indigenous students. Future priorities include expanding course offerings, enhancing inclusivity, and increasing public awareness of the programs.

Kindergarten Registration for 2025-2026

Assistant Superintendent Deanna Holitzki shared an update on kindergarten registration, which opened January 6, 2025. Families are encouraged to register at their catchment school and attend “Welcome to Kindergarten” events planned for spring 2025. These events provide incoming students and their families with resources and opportunities to familiarize themselves with their school environment.

2025-2026 Budget Development Process

Secretary-Treasurer Cathy MacArthur outlined the budget development process, beginning with consultations in March 2025. Activities include online surveys, review sessions, and a public webinar to gather community input. The final budget will be adopted at the May 2025 public board meeting.

Student Trustee Reports

L.V. Rogers Secondary (Student Trustee Solarik)

Student Trustee Solarik reported on the home basketball tournament organized by the Recreation Leadership class. The school also celebrated the approval of e-bike-friendly bike racks, a project spearheaded by the student council.

Mount Sentinel Secondary (Student Trustees Gretchen and Metcalfe)

Mount Sentinel celebrated its winter spirit week with a winter carnival hosted by LLC classrooms. Upcoming events include drama scene nights in January. The Outdoor Recreation and Culinary Arts (ORCA) program will launch in the second semester.

Kootenay River Secondary (Student Trustee Ashe)

Kootenay River Secondary hosted a winter carnival and raised funds for a local food bank. Leadership classes are planning a hot chocolate and cookie sale to support a cancer patient related to a KRSS student. A spring dance is also under consideration. 

These highlights exclude confidential information such as business negotiations, personnel issues and legal matters. For other information or to provide feedback, please contact our Communications & Engagement Manager at 250-352-6681 or engagement@sd8.bc.ca

About School District No. 8 (Kootenay Lake): Our mission is to inspire and support each learner to thrive in a caring learning environment. We are located in the southern Interior of British Columbia and serve numerous diverse communities in the Kootenays including Crawford Bay, Creston, Kaslo, Meadow Creek, Nelson, Salmo, Slocan, South Slocan, Winlaw, Wynndel, and Yahk. We also serve students across B.C. through our provincial online learning school, Elev8. Our dedicated team focuses on providing the best possible educational opportunities for about 4,700 students and their families.