School District No. 8 (Kootenay Lake) announced today that Mr. Ian Cooper will serve as the new principal of L.V. Rogers Secondary School in Nelson and the REACH program, effective August 1, 2025.  

“I’m very pleased that Mr. Cooper will join SD8 to lead a team of excellent educators and support staff at L.V.R. for the coming school year. Ian follows in the footsteps of some very capable and respected school leaders who have served in the Nelson Family of Schools over many decades. I know that his commitment to bringing out the best in others will serve students, educators, and the community very well,” said Superintendent Trish Smillie.

Mr. Cooper brings more than fifteen years of K–12 experience to his new role, including three years as principal of Stanley Humphries Secondary in Castlegar and four years as vice-principal at both the elementary and secondary levels. 

“I am honored to join the L.V. Rogers Secondary community and SD8,” said Mr. Cooper. “By fostering strong relationships with students, staff, and families and collaborating as a team, I plan to build on the school’s tradition of inclusivity and academic excellence for every learner.”

Longtime Nelson area residents, Mr. Cooper and his family have deep roots in the West Kootenay and are active participants in their community. 
Current L.V.R. Principal Dan Rude will continue to lead the school for the remainder of the 2024-2025 school year.

“I wish Dan a wonderful career going forward and thank him for his years of education leadership in SD8,” said Superintendent Smillie.