What is BWCJA?

BWCJA (formerly Classical Junior Academy (CJA) and Kennard Classical Junior Academy (KCJA)) is a full-time, tuition-free, public school serving gifted children in the St. Louis metropolitan area. We are part of the St. Louis Public Schools district (SLPS).

How do I apply?

Applications are not handled by the school. Applications are processed by SLPS's Student Recruitment and Placement Office: Magnet and Choice schools application and additional information

Interested families should submit a magnet school application for each child. A new application is available each fall. After receiving the application, the district will contact you to have your child tested and entered into a lottery for a seat at BWCJA. Students must meet state-approved criteria for gifted eligibility to qualify for a space in the lottery. Gifted eligibility does not guarantee a space at BWCJA.

All questions regarding the admissions process, testing, application process, etc. should be directed to the district’s Student Recruitment and Placement Office at 314-633-5200 or slpsmagnetschools@slps.org.

Can I visit WCJA?

The PTO regularly offers tours to prospective families. Visit our School Tours page for more information.

Where can I get more information?

This website, sponsored by the BWCJA Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), focuses primarily on information for current students and their families. Please review this website and the school’s SLPS page to learn more about BWCJA.

If you are a prospective parent and have additional questions that cannot be answered from either website, please contact the PTO’s New Families Committee.