St. Paul VI Catholic High School in Chantilly appointed five new deans who began July 1. With a shared passion for academic excellence and a deep commitment to fostering a nurturing and student-centered environment, these deans bring a wealth of experience and expertise to Paul VI.
Ana Aldana moves into the role of dean of instruction. Most recently, Aldana served as a new teacher mentor and World Language Department Chair at Paul VI. Aldana has worked as a Spanish teacher for the diocese for 19 years. She is pursuing a master’s in education in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in learning technologies in schools at George Mason University in Fairfax. Originally from Colombia, Aldana enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and loves traveling and learning about other cultures.
Adam Bigbee is the dean of exceptional learning. Bigbee began his educational career 21 years ago as a teacher in the Paul VI Options Program. Since then, he has served as a special educator in Catholic and public schools throughout Northern Virginia. After serving as assistant principal for academics at Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School in Potomac Shores, Bigbee helped start Lightridge High School in Loudoun County during the pandemic.
He has a bachelor’s in religious studies from the University of Florida, a master’s in special education and doctorate in special education leadership from George Mason University.
Melanie Kiernan is the dean of faculty. During her 27 years of teaching English and coaching track and field and cross-country at Paul VI, Kiernan has continued to develop her passion for learning, literature, and running. She has acted as a faithful witness to the school’s mission by serving in various leadership roles and is very excited to challenge herself in this new position. She is a member of the Paul VI Class of 1992 and the Athletic Hall of Fame. Having a thorough understanding of the traditions of the school’s history and the influence of St. Francis de Sales, Kiernan is well-equipped to maintain the high academic standards of the school while motivating faculty to embrace professional growth and new traditions.
Apolonio Latar III has moved into the role of dean of curriculum. Latar was most recently the Department Chair of Theology at Paul VI and is an adjunct professor at St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry in Rochester, N.Y. He has published several articles, created exhibits, and given presentations on cultural, educational, philosophical, and theological issues. He has more than 15 years of experience in youth ministry, including organizing retreats and charitable work. He is actively involved in prison ministry. Latar and his wife enjoy hiking, traveling and exploring historical sites.
Tony Salgado Jr., a long-time Paul VI baseball coach, joins the staff as the new dean of students. Salgado has spent 10 years as a teacher and 10 years as an administrator in both Loudoun and Fairfax County public schools. He has worked as both a school-based administrator in LCPS and FCPS, and a curriculum specialist in the central office of FCPS. Salgado is a native of Northern Virginia and has lived in South Riding for 15 years. He and his family enjoy traveling, movies, and various sports, especially Paul VI sports.
