K-12 Education
Jefferson City takes pride in its commitment to providing exceptional K-12 education, fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The city is served by dedicated school districts that prioritize excellence in teaching and holistic student development.
Capital City High School
Growing young minds
The Jefferson City School District is known for its emphasis on creating a well-rounded educational experience. The district offers a range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and support services to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed. In addition to public schools, Jefferson City is home to private and charter schools, providing families with additional educational choices. These institutions often offer unique approaches to teaching, smaller class sizes, and specialized programs to meet the specific needs of students.
Lewis & Clark Middle School
© Jefferson City School District
Public Schools
Jefferson city school district
The Jefferson City School District, established in 1838, has a rich history of serving the Jefferson City community and providing quality education for students from pre-kindergarten through graduation. The JC Schools motto, “District of Champions,” encourages staff and students to work every day to be champions and to build champions in others.
The district encompasses an area of 223 square miles across Cole and Callaway counties, has an enrollment of approximately 8,500 students, and has a staff of around 1,500. There are 11 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, 2 high schools, an early childhood center, a career center, an alternative school, and a performing arts center.
The district’s high schools offer more Advanced Placement courses than any other high schools in the Central Missouri area and consistently produce a number of National Merit and AP Scholars each year. The athletics, fine arts, and career center programs regularly win local, conference, district, state, and national accolades.
Elementary Schools
Middle Schools
High Schools
Early Childhood Center
The district’s early childhood center eagerly serves the community’s early childhood needs including pre-kindergarten, early childhood special education, and Parents as Teachers. With the passage of the Kids First bond issue in 2023, a new early childhood center is being constructed to open for the 2025-2026 school year which will double the enrollment capacity for pre-K students.
Alternative School
The Jefferson City Academic Center (JCAC) offers a setting for students who do not perform as well in the traditional high school format. The school offers a smaller student-to-teacher ratio and flexible scheduling opportunities while continuing to hold students to the same high standards as the two primary high schools. Students must apply for admittance to the school and undergo an interview process prior to being accepted.
Learn more about Jefferson City Academic Center
Career Center
Nichols Career Center is an area career and technical school committed to serving the needs of secondary students in the mid-Missouri area. Instructional programs strive to provide the opportunity to develop salable skills, attitude and knowledge which enable the student to obtain a job, continue his/her career and technical education and/or advance in a chosen career. The school responds to the identified needs of the community by providing quality educational programs that are accessible to those who can benefit from them.
private schools
helias catholic high school
© Helias Catholic High School
With a vision of “building a community of saints and scholars for Christ,” Helias Catholic High School is committed to providing excellence in education as established on the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church in an environment that prepares students for future success and empowers them to reach their full potential. The largest of three high schools under the direction of the Diocese of Jefferson City, Helias Catholic was founded in 1956 on the traditions of the Schools Sisters of Notre Dame and the De La Salle Christian Brothers. Helias Catholic is guided by the core values of faith, community and excellence. Students complete a minimum of 50 hours of community service throughout high school. Helias Catholic offers Advanced Placement and dual-credit options, and a high percentage (93%) of graduates pursue post-secondary education or enter military service.
© Helias Catholic High School
© Diocese of Jefferson City
private schools
Diocese of Jefferson City
© Diocese of Jefferson City
private schools
calvary lutheran high school
© Calvary Lutheran High School
Calvary Lutheran High School has been partnering with local families for nearly 20 years to provide a high quality academic and Christ-centered experience. We endeavor to build a relational Christian community and welcome both Lutheran and non-Lutheran students into our school. Along with partnering with families at the intersection of faith and academics, we also strive to build Christian leaders who are servant hearted and well-rounded.
As a nationally accredited high school, we offer a robust academic experience that prepares our students for enrolling in college, trade school, or directly entering the workforce. Calvary students have numerous opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom, including joining extra-curricular sports, the fine arts, or several student-led groups.
© Calvary Lutheran High School
© Blair Oaks R-II
Public Schools
blair oaks R-II
© Blair Oaks R-II
Nestled in the scenic town of Wardsville, Missouri, Blair Oaks R-II School District is a beacon of educational excellence. Currently home to approximately 1,100 students from the surrounding areas, Blair Oaks has become synonymous with academic achievement and personal growth. The district boasts a dedicated team of educators and staff who not only meet high academic standards but also instill values of responsibility, resilience, and community engagement in their students. The students and staff of Blair Oaks consistently perform at the top of public schools in Missouri, reflecting a commitment to excellence that permeates all aspects of the educational experience. This commitment is deeply ingrained in the district’s rich tradition of upholding high standards. Blair Oaks serves not only as an educational institution but as a vital community hub, fostering a collaborative spirit among teachers, parents, and students. The district’s emphasis on innovation is evident in its incorporation of cutting-edge educational practices and technology. With outstanding students, staff, and families, Blair Oaks R-II School District remains dedicated to preparing students for success in both their academic and personal journeys, continuing to be a shining example of educational achievement and community pride.
private schools
Lighthouse Preparatory Academy
© Lighthouse Preparatory Academy
Lighthouse Preparatory Academy is an accredited and Christian, kindergarten through 12th grade, University-Model® Schools International certified member. Lighthouse strengthens families by offering 3-days a week in seat classes with 2-days of work at home. They are also an A+ designated school and offer dual credit classes.
Lighthouse’s Family Ministries program ensures that a biblical worldview permeates all aspects of school by offering biblical resources to students and families. Its Student Life program offers extracurricular activities that gives students opportunities to use their God-given talents to glorify Him, and its Academic program offers rigorous college and career readiness.
© Lighthouse Preparatory Academy
© River Oak Christian Academy
private Schools
River Oak Christian Academy
© River Oak Christian Academy
River Oak Christian Academy is a non-denominational, private Christian school with students coming from 35 local churches. The school enrolls pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. River Oak is a member of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).
River Oak is academically excellent working to prepare students for higher learning and to impact the world for Christ. At River Oak the word of God is integrated throughout instruction as well as when interacting with students in and out of the classroom. Students are taught within a nurturing and loving environment centered on biblical truths and principles while learning to grow both academically and spiritually.
A notable distinguishing factor that makes River Oak Christian Academy stand out is its standardized test scores. In 2022, 79% of our students performed at or above the national average of students. Not only that but 60% of our students scored in the top 15% of students nationwide. This is a testament to the successful relationship between River Oak students, staff, and families.
ADDITIONAL ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS
- St. Joseph Cathedral School – Jefferson City
- Immaculate Conception School – Jefferson City
- Cole R-1 District – Russellville, MO
- Cole County R-V School District – Eugene, MO