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 schedule of upcoming board meetings, visit sd8.bc.ca/meetings.
Director of Instruction – Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Ben Eaton presented the Connected Learners Continuous Learning Report 2025–2026. The report outlined how SD8 supports student learning in environmental and outdoor education, fine arts, and responsible digital engagement and provides opportunities for students to have a voice in education,
The presentation aligned with provincial mandates and the district’s 2024–2029 Strategic Plan, and included evidence of increased student engagement, particularly in learning beyond the classroom and climate action initiatives.
District Principal Kent Tamblyn presented the 2025-2026 International Education Annual Report, highlighting current enrolment, program strengths, and the cultural contributions of international students to schools and communities. Priorities moving forward include recruitment, homestay capacity, and sustainable growth.
Secretary-Treasurer Cathy MacArthur presented the 2025–2026 Amended Annual Budget, which reflects financial stability, careful planning, and continued investment in students and classrooms.
The amended budget updates the district’s financial plan to reflect actual enrolment, confirmed funding, and approved carryforwards from the previous year. It builds on decisions made in earlier budgets and supports the delivery of expanded instructional and student support services while maintaining healthy reserves.
The amended budget totals $87.6 million, which is an increase of $2.4 million compared to the 2025-2026 Annual Budget prior to amendments. This increase reflects $0.3 million in additional expenditures in the Operating Fund, $1.9 million in the Special Purpose Funds, and $0.2 million in the Capital Fund.
Student Trustees shared updates reflecting strong student leadership and engagement across SD8 schools.
Student Trustee Keyes – MSS extra-curricular drama program participating in the Good will Shakespeare Festival in Kelowna in late February; students have fundraised locally to attend the festival with support from the Slocan Community Band. Students have marked Black History Month by researching figures in the Black community and decorated school doors with information and art related to Black History. The Outdoor Recreation and ORCA program is putting on a welcoming and inclusive Valentine’s Day fundraise. Students are also holding a flea market as a graduation fundraiser.
Student Trustee Anderson – Students in grades 11 and 12 have put up posters about African-Canadian and African-American people and the contributions they have made, with plans to expand events next year. Report cards came out recently as one semester ended and the other began. The Student’s Choice Art Show has been a great success at the Nelson Public Library. Junior Boys basketball and Senior Boys Oso Negra. Health Hub in full swing with Foundry Fridays.
Student Trustee Cuff - JVH students participated in a Whitewater ski trip in January. The grade 12 Career Learning Class (CLC) attended multiple career presentations including from a psychologist, a teacher and an electrician. The High School Student Parliament mentored the Intermediate School Student Parliament in school activity planning. Students hosted spirit week events, prepared for a cultural trip to Quebec, and moved ahead with graduation fundraising.
Student Trustee Hamilton - students launched new after-school initiatives, continued environmental efforts through the Green Team, and organized school-wide activities, including a staff-versus-student dodgeball tournament.
Superintendent Trish Smillie presented the draft 2028–2029 school calendars, developed in consultation with union partners. The Board unanimously approved the calendars for posting on the district website for field testing beginning February 11, 2026, inviting feedback prior to final adoption.
The next meeting of the Board held in public is scheduled for Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. PT / 6:00 p.m. MT in Nelson or online.
These highlights exclude confidential information such as business negotiations, personnel issues and legal matters. For other information or to provide feedback, please contact SD8 Communications & Public Engagement