Career Development Stories
Across SD8 – Kootenay Lake, students are exploring real-world learning through dual credit programs, trades training, work experience placements, and career development opportunities that connect classroom learning to future possibilities. This page is dedicated to celebrating those journeys and stories that support the SD8 Career Development Action Plan.
Here, you'll find a growing collection of success stories and program highlights from schools and about our programs from across our district. From students earning college credits while in high school, to hands-on experiences in skilled trades, to partnerships with local employers and post-secondary institutions — these stories showcase the many pathways students are taking toward their futures, and how we are supporting them in getting there.
We invite you to explore and be inspired by the voices, achievements, and opportunities shaping career education in SD8.
Career Events & Opportunities 2025
SD8 | Selkirk College | IHA Healthcare Career Fair
School District No.08 (Kootenay Lake) was awarded a grant in the amount of $5,000 from the MOECC (Ministry of Education and Child Care) to support the development and delivery of interactive, experiential learning activities for students in Grades 6-9 to increase awareness and understanding of in-demand, public sector health careers. This initiative is supported through Action 48 of BC’s Health Human Resources Strategy. The strategy aims to enhance exploration of health careers for K-12 students across BC.
Thank you to our partner organizations, Selkirk College (School of Health and Human Services) and the IHA (Interior Health Authority) for their coordination, support, and for collaborating to provide an excellent, experiential learning opportunity for middle year students in the healthcare sector.
SD8 Student Career Advisory Group 2024-2025
SD8 Student Career Advisory Group: Student Voice in Action
The MOECC’s Career Development Policy emphasizes preparing students to be self-directed, responsible individuals equipped with knowledge of various career choices and the employability skills required for the workforce.
The SD8 Kootenay Lake Career Development Action Plan (CDAP) is closely aligned with the BC Ministry of Education and Child Care’s (MOECC) Career Development Policy, ensuring that students graduate with the competencies and experiences necessary for successful transitions into post-secondary education, employment, and lifelong learning.
This year, our pilot SD8 Student Career Advisory Group provided feedback on the SD8 Career Development Action Plan, and researched and presented initiatives in areas of focus/interest: practical training (first aid), financial literacy programs (Everfi, Chatterhigh), core competency development (SD8 Core Competency Classroom), real world learning (JABC), and career exploration (career panel).
Thank you to our students this year: Avery Kelly, Kail Keyes, Alana Knox, Joel Healey, and Natalie Rexin!
SD8 Trades Explore Programs 2025
SD8 Trades Explore Program: Igniting Futures in the Skilled Trades
The SD8 Trades Explore Program empowers students across Kootenay Lake School District to discover rewarding pathways in the skilled trades. Through hands-on learning, exposure to real-world environments, and mentorship from industry professionals, students gain foundational skills, career insights, and confidence to pursue trades careers and apprenticeship training. Aligned with B.C.’s Career Education curriculum and provincial graduation goals, this program is a launchpad for youth to graduate with dignity, purpose, and a clear vision for their future in a rapidly evolving workforce.
