School District No. 8 (Kootenay Lake) has appointed Jason Tichauer as assistant superintendent, effective September 1, 2026. 

"I am very excited to welcome Jason to SD8. He brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to students, families, and staff. His collaborative approach and focus on student success make him an excellent fit for our district," said Superintendent Trish Smillie.

“I am confident that Jason is the right person to further our vision of supporting learners to grow as global citizens in an innovative and inclusive community.”

Jason Tichauer is currently Director of Instruction in School District No. 5 (Southeast Kootenay) and in his 30-year tenure in public education he has served as a teacher, school administrator, and district leader. He holds a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Education from the University of Victoria. 

"I am deeply honoured to join the Kootenay Lake school district team and to have the opportunity to serve students, families, and staff. The vision, mission, and values of the Board of Education align strongly with my own teaching and leadership philosophy. I am excited to build on past successes to ensure that students thrive in a caring learning environment," said Tichauer. 

Throughout his career, Jason has worked in both urban and rural school communities, bringing a broad range of experience to his new role. He plans to lead through strong relationships, collaboration, and with a focus on helping each learner reach their potential. He brings a reputation for knowing how to create safe, caring, and inclusive schools.

The assistant superintendent is a key role in the district that provides leadership and support to school principals and vice-principals and serves as a key member of the district's senior leadership team. Tichauer will also support student success and student well-being across the district through the Inclusive Education department. The assistant superintendent oversees staff who support students and schools through a range of services, including psychology, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, services for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, and services for students with visual impairments.

Tichauer will replace Assistant Superintendent Deanna Holitzki, who is retiring later this summer after serving students, families, and staff in K-12 education for 36 years.