Kootenay
Regional Overview
The Kootenay region (or "The Kootenays" to locals) is nestled in the southeastern portion of the province, and it's the location of seven school district employers. Two geographical features dominate the area: mountains and water, and both make for some pretty spectacular scenery as well as some great opportunities for outdoor adventure. Historically, mining has always been the primary industry in the Kootenays; however, the region also thrives on agriculture and forestry.
Kootenay BC school districts serve students in Castlegar, Trail, Grand Forks, Rossland, Nakusp and other neighbouring communities. The largest school district in the region is Southeast Kootenay School District followed by Kootenay Lake School District, Kootenay Columbia School District, Rocky Mountain School District, Boundary School District, and lastly Arrow Lakes School District. In total, the region enrolls almost 18,500 students in the 2020/21 school year.
Featured Employers
Kootenay-Columbia School District 20
10 Schools | 3,900 Students | 550 Employees
Southeast Kootenay School District 5
19 Schools | 5,767 Students | 731 Employees
Kootenay Lake School District 8
32 Schools | 5,000 Students | 850 Employees
K-12 Employers
PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYERS
- Arrow Lakes 10
- Boundary 51
- Kootenay-Columbia 20
- Kootenay Lake 8
- Rocky Mountain 6
- Southeast Kootenay 5
Francophone School Board
Culture
Originally settled by miners, rail workers and pioneers, the Kootenays are steeped in history. There are more than 50 ghost towns in the mountains and valleys, and it is not uncommon for hikers to come across sunken paddlewheelers and abandoned miners’ shacks. Trek into the backcountry here, and you never know what you might discover!
Lifestyle
With its snow-capped peaks in winter and idyllic lakeside summers, the Kootenay region attracts those who love being outdoors. People in the Kootenays like to live a little quieter, and residents are known for their laid-back attitude. Much of this region is still undiscovered country, and residents spend their weekends canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and skiing. For those looking to explore outside of the province, Alberta is just a short drive away.
Select an employer to learn more about specific career opportunities in the Kootenay region.
