St. Paul VI Catholic High School in Chantilly opens its doors for its 42nd year and welcomes the newest Panthers and returning students to its beautiful, faith-filled campus in Chantilly.
The school community has been busy preparing for the return of the upperclassmen and to welcome more than 300 incoming freshmen and 30 transfer students this year.
“The incoming Class of 2028 demonstrates a remarkable enthusiasm for learning and a commitment to the mission of St. Paul VI Catholic High School,” said Kiersten Caputy, director of enrollment management. “We enjoyed getting to know our newest Panthers on a personal level throughout our application process and look forward to nurturing their growth and witnessing the many ways in which they will ‘grow in grace and wisdom’ as members of our community.”
With the help and support of the new chaplain, Father Jonathan R. Fioramonti, new Director of Campus Ministry Nick Zaso, and Tony Salgado, dean of students, revitalizing student programming efforts in support of Paul VI’s building theme, “Living in Communion,” was this summer’s focus. Its mission is to elevate student engagement and foster leadership opportunities, all within a faith-filled environment.
Students should “get ready for an unforgettable year filled with new friendships, thrilling events and countless moments of joy and growth,” said Alicia Blanding Anderson, associate dean of students.
Paul VI is also growing its academic programming and offering 12 new electives, including Christian Discipleship, Digital Video Design and Production, Debate, Marine Biology, Intro to ASL, Intro to Robotic Design, and International Trade and Business. Its Exceptional Learning team is also growing. The school welcomed alumna Lauren Hawkins as the new associate dean of exceptional learning. She and Adam Bigbee, the dean of exceptional learning, are expanding efforts for neurodiverse learners to provide optimal support in and out of the classroom.
“Deepening inclusionary practices, differentiating instruction, and embracing a growth mindset benefit all students who think and learn differently,” said Bigbee. “Our faculty and staff are doing things that we never thought were possible in a Catholic school. This schoolwide endeavor not only helps students with exceptional needs to reach their God-given potential, it helps all students, faculty and staff grow in grace and wisdom.”
Authentically and affordably Catholic remains a key tenet of Head of School Laura Swenson’s vision for Paul VI. In keeping with the Diocesan Jubilee Year, Paul VI will focus on “sharing our Catholic faith with others in word and deed through evangelization and mercy.” As St. Paul VI noted, “My hope, O Lord, is in you. Keep my heart and my gaze fixed on you, who give meaning to everything in and around me.”
