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Employment at JP the Great:

For information on current or future employment opportunities, please email your resume and cover letter to us.  Please note that for faculty positions, applicants must complete the Diocesan employment application procedures which can be found at the Diocese of Arlington website.

Our Faculty and Staff:

 

Mr. Gerard-Marie Anthony

Religion, Bioethics Teacher

  • M.A candidate in Theology from Catholic Distance University
  • B.A. in Theology from Christendom College
  • Assistant Director for Religious Education and Adult Faith Formation Coordinator, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Annandale
  • Youth Director, St. Louis Catholic Church and School, Alexandria
  • Youth Director, St. Timothy Catholic Church and School, Chantilly
  • 4 year volunteer with the Jr. Legion of Mary

    • ANTHONY, Gerard-MarieIn His Own Words: "John Paul the Great is my hero and I am honored to teach at a school under his patronage. I pray with God's grace to not only spread his message of hope to the world, but help these students to become great just like him.”

     

     

     

    Sr. Terese Auer, O.P.

    Chair, Bioethics Department

  • Ph.D. in Philosophy from the Center for Thomistic Studies at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, TX
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  • M.A. in Thomistic Philosophy from the University of St. Thomas
  • 20 years of teaching experience at the high school level and 10 years at the college level

    • Auer, St. TereseIn Her Own Words: “Teenagers are at an age when they are looking for the answers to important questions, like:  Who am I?  Why am I here?  What is life all about?  How can I be truly happy?  I love helping them find the answers -- the Truth! I have found in my teaching experience that Pope John Paul's understanding of human love has had life-changing affects on my students.  His Theology of the Body is the answer to the sexual confusion of our day.”

     

     

    Miss Erin Baker

    Physical Education Teacher, Girl’s Field Hockey and Lacrosse Coach

  • B.A. in Exercise Science and Sports Studies from Guilford College
  • 2009 head women's soccer coach at Northern Guilford High School
  • Coached at UNC soccer camps in 2007 and 2008

    • BAKER, ErinIn Her Own Words: "I am so thankful for this opportunity to be a part of Pope John Paul the Great! Like Pope John Paul II, I believe that athletics can help young people reach the full potential that God wants all of his children to achieve. In his homily for the Jubilee of Sports People, October 2000, he stated, '...give thanks to God for the gift of sport, in which the human person exercises his body, intellect and will, recognizing these abilities as so many gifts of his Creator.' As a physical education teacher and coach I try to use athletics to their fullest potential.”

     

     

    Ms. Megan Battle

    Director of Special Services

  • B.S. in Psychology, minor early childhood special education from George Mason University
  • Recipient of the 2006 ARC of Northern VA Educational Leadership Award

    • Battle, MeganIn Her Own Words: “I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to bring the Options program to Pope John Paul the Great and watch it grow and enrich the lives of everyone in the school community. Modeled after the program at Pope Paul VI High School, our Options Program will serve intellectually disabled students, with cognitive impairment and /or significant learning disabilities. A primary goal for each student is to be as fully integrated as possible into the total life of the school community. I was first introduced to the Options Program as a peer mentor when I was in high school at Pope Paul VI.  The experience opened my eyes to the world of people with disabilities and shaped my professional career”

     

     

    Mr. Frances J. Berenty

    Math Teacher

  • M.S. in Marine Environmental Science from Eastern Connecticut State University
  • B.S. in Mathematics and Physics from Texas A&M University
  • Professional Certificates in Computer Programming and Technology from the Control Data Institute
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  • Educator for 36 years, in 3 states: Texas, Connecticut, and Virginia
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  • 15 years at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (Fairfax County Public School System). Served as served as the TJ Technology Research Labs Coordinator, Robotics Lab Director, and director  of the TJ Mentorship program
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  • 3 years at the Loudoun County Academy of Science (an inquiry based school program) 

    • BAKER, ErinIn His Own Words: "Appreciating the gift that the Lord has presented me by being selected to the staff at Pope John Paul the Great, I am anxious to offer my skills and experience in support of its needs. To be in the company of those vested in nurturing the "whole person," promises a beautiful harmony. What has preceded this moment has been but a sojourn; finally, the calling begins. May I be ready and worthy.”

     

     

    Mrs. Charo Brock

    Chair, World Language Department

  • B.A. in Spanish Education from the University of West Florida
  • 20 years teaching experience
  • Born and raised in Lima, Peru. Married with two grown children. Has lived in Italy and Spain

    • BROCK, CharoIn Her Own Words: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to teach at Pope John Paul the Great because I believe that my Catholic faith, upbringing, teaching, and life experiences will make a valuable contribution to the spiritual development and academic growth of our students.  I hope that my genuine excitement and high expectations for this opportunity will be felt by, and shared with, our student body.”

     

     

    Sr. Mary Brigid Burnham, O.P.

    Chair, Religion Department and English Department

  • M.A.T.L. in Spanish from the University of Southern Mississippi
  • M.A. in Theology: History of Christianity, from the University of Notre Dame
  • B.A. from Hillsdale College in Latin and Greek, Classical Studies
  • Teaching experience spans 14 years at the high school and college level
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    BURNHAM, O.P., Sr. Mary BrigidIn Her Own Words: “I am delighted, honored, and humbled to be a part of this great and far-seeing venture of Catholic education, and I am so grateful to the Arlington Diocese for giving the Dominican Sisters the opportunity to join in partnership. It will be an epoch-making school, serving as a model of secondary education for schools around the country, under the patronage of the best known saint-to-be of modern times!”

     

     

    Mr. Mike Bussman

    Health, Geometry Teacher, Student Government Advisor

  • M.S. in Information and Telecommunication Systems for Business from The Johns Hopkins University Carey School of Business
  • B.S. in Economics from the United States Naval Academy
  • 3 semesters of philosophical studies and discernment at Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary
  • Graduate of the United States Navy Nuclear Power Program
  • Ten years of professional experience including eight years in the United States Navy and two years as a technology Program Manager in Northern Virginia
  • Catholic Lector, Extraordinary Minister of the Holy Eucharist, Lay Leader, and Catechist for over ten years

    • BUSSMAN, MikeIn His Own Words:  "Pope John Paul the Great High School is an extraordinary community of students, teachers, and faculty, and I am very humbled and blessed to have the opportunity to be part of the team.  I am excited to contribute to the spiritual, academic, and human formation of our young men and women both in the classroom and on the athletic field.  In turn I look forward to continuing my formation by learning from the amazing examples of our students and faculty as together we all strive to answer what Pope John Paul II called a  ‘Universal Call to Holiness in the Church’.”

     

    Mr. Lawton Clites

    Science Teacher

  • B.S. in Environmental Science, Natural Sciences Concentration, from Mary Washington College
  • 4 years working in environmental, military and healthcare operations research with the United States Marine Corps, the Naval Postgraduate School, and the University of Memphis.
  • Served for two years as president of the Pro-Life group of the Catholic Student Associations while at Mary Washington College.

    • CLITES, Lawton In His Own Words: “I am very excited and feel very blessed to be a part of the faculty here at Pope John Paul the Great. I have a great love of learning and look forward to being able to share that in an environment which encourages the students to look at all of their subjects in the light of the fullness of God’s Truth. Having the opportunity to do so in a place of such natural and architectural beauty as Pope John Paul the Great with such supportive and faithful faculty and staff is to me a sign of the extravagance of God’s blessings.”

     

    Ms. Jennifer Cole

    Director of Admissions and Marketing

  • B.A. in Communications from California State University Northridge
  • Served U.S. Catholic Bishops for 9 years in a national pro-life public policy and communications role.
  • Recent professional experience includes directorships and public policy roles with the National Council For Adoption and The Pew Charitable Trusts focusing on foster care and adoption reform issues.
  • Religious Education Teacher and Campus Minister, Rome, Italy
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    COLE, JenniferIn Her Own Words:  “I love teens, the Church, and Pope John Paul II, so being part of the team that is building the new school is a natural fit, and a great blessing. --Living and teaching in Rome for 5 years allowed my love, respect, and admiration for John Paul II to fully blossom. It was the greatest of privileges to be present with him in life, and in death. Being one among thousands in St. Peter’s Square during his funeral Mass to be chanting “Santo Subito!" (Sainthood Now!) makes being part of the first high school in America named “Pope John Paul the Great” seem nothing less than a generous act of Providence.”

     

     

    Miss Sierra Correa

    Art, Photography, Yearbook Teacher

  • B.A. in Graphic Design from the University of Maryland
  • Pursuing Masters degree in Theology with a concentration in Moral Theology from Notre Dame Graduate School
  • Two years as a graphic designer for a national non-profit organization
  • Teacher at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School in Fayetteville, GA
  • Eighth grade CCD catechist, youth ministry intern, and speaker in youth group, school, and conference settings
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    ANTHONY, Gerard-MarieIn Her Own Words: " I am thrilled to be a part of Pope John Paul the Great, because it is such a great example of what a Catholic school should be.  This school helps students to understand the "why's" of their faith, preparing them to head off to college with knowledge about themselves and the world that many others their age will still be looking for.  This is a great place for any student to attend high school and I am excited to be a part of it!”

     

     

    Mr.Mike Dobson

    Physical Education Teacher, Cross Country and Track Coach

  • M.S. in Physical Education/Athletic Training from Indiana State University
  • B.A. in Physical Education from the College of William and Mary
  • 30 year career in Fairfax County Public Schools as teacher, coach, and athletic director
  • Two time All-Met Coach of the Year
  • Co-Founder of the non-profit organization “Friends of Indoor Track”
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    ANTHONY, Gerard-MarieIn His Own Words: "I knew I was too young to retire, but wasn’t sure what was next. Of course, the Good Lord did.  Having this opportunity to return to teaching and coaching at John Paul the Great is very exciting.  I very much look forward to the Catholic school environment where God is the foundation of wisdom…not a topic to be avoided.”

     

     

    Mr. Brian Dunleavy

    Social Studies Teacher, Head Baseball Coach

  • B.A. in History, minor in American Government, George Mason University
  • Completing Masters in Education, George Mason University
  • Served as Catholic Campus Ministry President for 2 years while at George Mason University, and played on the baseball team for three years
  • Teaching experience in both public and private Catholic schools

    • DUNLEAVY, BrianIn His Own Words: "Pope John Paul the Great reached out to young peopleand the world in a unique and exciting way. He enabled a greater zeal and participation in the faith, including excitement about his groundbreaking Theology of the Body. I hope to inspire similar enthusiasm in my students that they may truly be free. –In addition to my faith, sports has played a big part in my life. I’ve been fortunate to play with/against several major league baseball players, as well as one NBA player. Can’t wait to hit the baseball diamond with the students of Pope John Paul the Great!”

     

     

    Mrs. Maria O. Duquiatan

    Administrative Assistant

  • BA in Accounting, and Certificate in Secretarial Science from St. Paul University, Manila, Philippines
  • Certificate in Computer Science from the Institute of Computer Technology and ATENEO Computer Technology Center.
  • 5 years as the secretary of Holy Cross Academy, Fredericksburg
  • 2 years as a Tax Preparer, H & R Block, Dahlgren, VA
  • 7 years experience as an accountant in the Philippines

    • DUQUIATAN, MariaIn Her Own Words: "My theology professor, Sr. Aloysius Paces, once told me: ‘Always keep a smile on your face and a prayer in your heart.’ I was in college then, and it made a big difference in my life. Today, as a happy, hardworking, mother of two it is still true, and still making a difference in my life.”

     

     

     

    Ms. Kelly Everett

    English Teacher

  • M.A. in Teaching from James Madison University, VA
  • B.A. in English from James Madison University, VA
  • Professional experience includes 3 years at James Monroe High School as English teacher, and faculty coordinator of their literary magazine
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    ANTHONY, Gerard-MarieIn Her Own Words: "I feel blessed to have the opportunity to become one of a team committed to providing an enriching academic and spiritual education. As each year passes, I find I have a deeper understanding and love of my faith and of learning. I pray I will be fortunate enough to pass along these two loves to the students of Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School.”

     

     

    Mr. Nicholas Fonte

    Religion Teacher

  • M.T.S., Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family, Washington, DC.
  • B.A. in Great Books, University of Notre Dame, Summa Cum Laude
  • Professional experience includes teaching, coaching, and campus ministry, as well as missionary and evangelization work in Honduras, California, Minnesota, and North Dakota

    • FONTE, NicholasIn His Own Words: "I long for the salvation of souls.  I’m grateful the Lord has called me to be a witness through teaching the faith, and it is with enthusiasm that I commit myself to the students and community of Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School. – In case you’ve never heard of a degree in “Great Books” (many haven’t!)  it is the intensive study, analysis, and critique of the seminal works of Western philosophical, theological, scientific, and literary thought focused on seminar discussions.”

     

    Ms. Brittany Forsythe

    Receptionist

  • Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from NOVA Community College
  • Associate’s Degree in Social Sciences with a specialization in Teacher Education, NOVA Community College
  • Pursuing degree from the University of Virginia in Special Education

    • FORSYTHE, BrittanyIn Her Own Words: "I feel elated and blessed to be considered part of the John Paul the Great family. I hope to be one step in the vital process of helping our students to receive the best education and spiritual guidance possible. As each year passes, I hope to have a more profound love of my faith and I ask God to guide me and help me to do his work with the children and faculty of John Paul the Great”

     

    Ms. Annemarie Francis

    Athletic Tranier, School Nurse

  • B.S. in Sports Medicine with All University Honors from High Point University, NC
  • M.S. in Sports Medicine from Georgia State University, GA
  • National certification as an athletic trainer, and Virginia Board of Medicine licensure as an athletic trainer, plus a health and physical education teaching license in Virginia
  • More than 13 years professional experience across all levels of sport competition and physical activities from youth amateur to professional
  • She served as a volunteer on the medical teams for the 1996 Centennial Olympics and Paralympic Games, the 2006 Marine Corps Marathon, and annual involvement since 2004 with the DC Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.

    • FRANCIS, Annemarie In Her Own Words: "As a product of a Catholic high school education, I live out the values and lessons learned back then, balancing academics and sports within the Catholic faith which supports the development of the whole person. I am excited to be sharing those ideals with our students. It was an honor to attend the Papal Mass at Nationals Stadium in April 2008, witnessing the blessing of our schools tabernacle. It was one sign on His path for me to follow.”

    Dr. Richard Gildersleeve, Ph.D.

    Chair, Science Department, Bioethics Teacher

  • Ph.D. in Animal Science from Louisiana State University
  • M.T.S from the International Theological Institute for Studies of Marriage and Family
  • B.S. in Zoology from Louisiana State University
  • Reseacher for NIH; teacher of graduate and undergraduate courses at LSU and NCSU  
  • Vice President of Embrex, Inc., a global agricultural biotechnology company
  • Catholic Teacher since 1996; directly involved in starting or growing several Catholic middle and high schools.

    • GILDERSLEEVE, Richard, Ph.D.In His Own Words: "I am honored to be invited to teach at Pope John Paul the Great. It is a joy to be closely involved in the formation of our youth in the Gospel of Life and the New Evangelization envisioned and taught by our great patron and Servant of God, Pope John Paul II. Our family is attracted to the charism of the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia for a renewal of Catholic education in communion with Bishop Loverde and Pope Benedict XVI.”

     

     

    Mrs. Elizabeth Hall

    Math and Science Teacher

  • M.Ed. in Math, Science and Technology from the University of San Diego
  • B.S. in Ocean Engineering from the United States Naval Academy
  • Served three honorable years in the United States Marine Corps

    • HALL, ElizabethIn Her Own Words:"I am thrilled to be part of the team at Pope John Paul the Great.  I was fortunate to grow up in the Catholic School system, and now I feel blessed to be on the other side of the equation at such an exciting new school.”

     

     

     

    Sr. Mary Jordan Hoover, O.P.

    Principal

  • Masters in Educational Administration and Leadership from   Northwestern University of Louisiana
  • Currently pursuing Masters in Theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville
  • B.A. in Secondary Education and Social Studies from Millersville University of Pennsylvania
  • 10 years of administrative experience in Catholic schools
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    HOOVER, Sr. Mary Jordan, O.P.In Her Own Words: “It is a joy for me to serve the Church in the Diocese of Arlington as we build Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School together. I pray daily for all who are engaged in this endeavor: construction and planning personnel, teachers, staff, students, and parents. May all that we do to shape the culture of our new school give glory to God.”

     

    Mr. Jay Jesse

    Assistant to the Principal

  • B.S. in Public Administration from George Mason University near completion
  • Administrative Assistant with Youth Apostles, McLean, VA
  • Directed student service programs at The Center for Service and Leadership, George Mason University, VA
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  • Year of volunteer service spent in parish youth ministry, and with at-risk youth programs

    • GAUGHN, Andre In His Own Words: " That they are young is enough for me to love them.’ With that simple statement, St. John Bosco summed up the reason for his entire life’s work serving the disadvantaged youth of Turin, Italy.  Inspired by Christ’s love for our young people, I find it to be a privilege and a joy to support and encourage our students on their spiritual and academic journey as well as act as a conduit to their parents during their time at JP.   The 'Young Church' as our late Holy Father so often referred to it, needs good stewards and I see that in our faculty and staff who are so dedicated to Christ and His mission.  I feel blessed to work alongside them ."

     

    Mr. Stephen Keane

    English, Drama Teacher

  • Currently pursuing Post-Master’s Certificate in Educational Leadership and Administration from George Washington University
  • M.A. in Communication, Culture, and Technology from Georgetown University
  • B.A. in Media Studies from The Catholic University of America
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  • Taught two years with Teach for America at a high school in Texas and two years at St. Mary, Star of the Sea School in Indian Head, Maryland
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    KEANE, StephenIn His Own Words: "I am so thankful to be a part of the special and unique community that has become Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School. I look forward to the experience of growing in my faith as I learn from my students.”

     

     

    Mrs. Linda Komp

    Admissions Assistant

  • B.A. in Fine Art from Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA
  • Teacher Assistant, St. William of York Catholic School
  • Founding member, Board Member, and counselor for a Save-a-Life crisis pregnancy center, Anniston, AL
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  • Professional experience includes 20 years in retail sales, 10 served in management
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  • Founder of stained glass studio called “Montana at Heart” which included teaching and commission work

    • GAUGHN, Andre In Her Own Words: "I am the proud mom of a son, (and JP the Great student!) Colin, and married to the greatest guy ever, Greg. To be able to contribute in some way to the growth of Pope John Paul the Great high school is a joy for me. I believe that this school is the first of its’ kind and is the standard for Catholic education in this new millennium."

     

    Mrs. Laurie Krauss

    Chair, Math Department

  • B.A. in Mathematics and Elementary Education, cum laude, from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, Indiana.
  • Professional experience spanning more than 20 years includes teaching at private college preparatory and Catholic schools in Indiana, Delaware and Virginia. Subjects include pre-algebra, algebra I, pre-calculus, and statistics, as well as tutoring geometry, algebra II, trigonometry and calculus.

    • Krauss, LaurieIn Her Own Words:  “I have lived in Prince William County since 1989 and have long awaited the opening of this diocesan Catholic high school.  I am excited and honored to have a hand in shaping Pope John Paul the Great’s reputation as a premiere college preparatory Catholic high school. –Life, however, isn’t all about mathematical pursuits! I am a happy, busy, mother of 5 and active member of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Triangle.”

     

    Miss Dorothy Logan

    Band and Choral Teacher/Director

  • B.M. in Music Education from George Mason University
  • Peace and Justice, and Christian Formation Co-Chair in GMU Catholic Campus Ministry

    • Logan, DorothyIn Her Own Words: “I am ecstatic to be at Pope John Paul the Great! Western music and the Church are so closely intertwined in history that I feel exceptionally at home in a music program in a Catholic school. I pray for the students, parents, faculty and staff, that we may all do God's will in the short time we have together at this school. My main instrument is the bassoon, but I have been trained to play any instrument, from the flute to the tuba to the viola to the timpani.”

     

    Ms. Karen Mahowald

    French Teacher

  • B.A. in French and Secondary Education from The Catholic University of America
  • L’Université Paul-Valéry, Montpellier, France, Junior Year Abroad
  • Professional, teaching, and internship experience includes: DeMatha High School, Hyattsville, MD; study abroad program in France; Foley & Lardner LLP French translation and interpreter services; and, the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops Pro-Life Secretariat.

    • MAHOWALD, KarenIn Her Own Words: "In his recent reflections to Catholic Educators at Catholic University, Pope Benedict XVI calls teachers to remember that, 'the dignity of education lies in fostering the true perfection and happiness of those to be educated.'  I cannot wait to teach at Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School because I know I will be a part of a faculty and staff who will uphold that mission!”

     

     

    Mr. Shawn McNulty

    Assistant Principal for Student Life  

  • M.A. in Catholic Leadership from Marymount University
  • 23 years professional experience at St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School serving as Athletic Director, coach, and educator
  • Recently served as Co-Chair for the Design For Excellence self-study team for Aquinas

    • McNULTY, ShawnIn His Own Words: “It is an awesome responsibility and privilege to help form our youth. This is why I love Catholic education, because God is not separated from our schools. It is only through His Grace that we can truly succeed at this task.”

     

     

     

    Mrs. Milagros Mendez

    Spanish Teacher  

  • M.A. Foreign Languages - Spanish from George Mason University (Summa Cum Laude)
  • B.B.A Marketing and Human Resources, Universidad de Puerto Rico
  • Over nine years experience teaching Spanish at the University level at George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College

    • MENDEZ, MilagrosIn Her Own Words:  "In 1984, I had the honor to be at the Mass celebrated by Pope John Paul II in my beautiful island, Puerto Rico, and since that moment my love for the Holy Father and my admiration for him grew even more.  Remembering this experience, I am deeply humbled and excited to be a Spanish teacher at John Paul the Great High School.  This has always been my dream, to be teaching at a place where I can live my Catholic faith daily with my students.  My hope is that I will contribute to the future of my students by planting seeds of hope and love in their hearts. In my personal life, my husband, wonderful children, and I are active members of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Gainesville, VA."

     

     

    Dr. William T. Moore

    Science Teacher

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX.
  • M.S. in Physiology, University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX.
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  • B.A. in Chemistry and Biology, Franklin College of Indiana, Franklin, IN
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  • Research Scientist, University of Texas School of Medicine, Houston, TX
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  • Senior Research Investigator, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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  • Assistant Professor, Dept of Chemistry and Geology, Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN
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  • Associate Professor, Dept of Arts and Sciences, Presentation College, Fairmont, MN

    • Krauss, LaurieIn His Own Words:  “Science is a subset of God’s Greater Truth. I am privileged and thankful to be given the opportunity of teaching science at John Paul the Great Catholic High School, an environment that has adventurously integrated a Catholic Bioethics program so that we can do our searching for the truth of science within the context of Jesus’ Love and the full acknowledgement that we are made in the Image of God."

     

    Mr. David Morales

    Director of Technology

  • B.S. in Information Systems from New York University
  • Pursuing a Masters Degree in Theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville
  • 2 years, IT Project Manager, Catholic Diocese of Arlington
  • 6 years, Malcolm Pirnie, IT Department Head and Project Manager
  • Eighth-grade Catechist for six years

    • MORALES, DavidIn His Own Words: “I’m excited to be with Pope John Paul the Great because I want to be a part of building a school where students can learn about God, their faith, the Church, and what it all means to them.  A school that takes the vision that Pope John Paul had for the youth in the world and brings it to life. With a family of seven children, this is very important to my wife and I as we raise them in an ever more difficult world.”

     

     

    Mrs. Letsea Yau Noller

    History, Spanish Teacher

  • M.A. in Education from George Mason University
  • B.A. in History from Marymount University
  • Eight years teaching experience, including levels I through V and Advanced Placement (AP) and Cambridge Programs International (IGCSE)
  • United States Supreme Court – Washington, DC:  Internship – Curator’s Office, 2001

    • MORALES, DavidIn Her Own Words: “I am so happy to be at John Paul the Great, where we are allowed and encouraged to live our Catholic faith more fully. It is very exciting to return to teaching high school, especially in a community with such a fast-growing reputation for academic excellence. I am energized, eager and delighted to be part of a great team. I am looking forward to teaching at John Paul the Great and becoming part of this great community. My prediction is that this is going to be a great school year!”

     

    Mr. Bill O'Connor

    Chair, Art Department, and Math Teacher

  • M.A. in Multidisciplinary Studies (Mathematics, Education, English), University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas
  • B.B.A., James Madison University
  • Fulbright exchange teacher to Krakow, Poland
  • Nine years teaching math and coaching swimming at Incarnate Word High School in San Antonio, Texas, followed by six years teaching at Catholic schools in Santiago, Chile

    • OCONNOR, BillIn His Own Words: “A colleague abroad has pointed out that Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School is opening its doors at a time when many Catholic schools across the nation are consolidating or closing. Even the school architecture speaks of God, inviting contemplation. What a privilege to be among educators and students whose work will help others encounter Christ, bringing life to the new building and in time, light to the nation.”

     

     

    Mr. Carl Patton

    Assistant Principal for Academics, Head Football Coach

  • M.S. in Education from Trinity University
  • B.S. in Agronomy, University of Maryland, College Park
  • 15 years experience as teacher, coach, and administrator in Catholic schools
  • Served as an instructor and administrator for Johns Hopkins University's Center for Talented Youth
  • Exchange student to the Soviet Union as an undergraduate

    • PATTON, CarlIn His Own Words: “Working at John Paul the Great is an extraordinary opportunity. It is a chance to be an integral part in the design of a school that will set a new standard for education in the community.”

     

     

     

    Miss Karen Schultz

    Teacher’s Aid

  • M.T.S. with an emphasis in bioethics from the Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage & Family, Washington, D.C.
  • B.S. in Zoology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • Traveled extensively to East Africa as a student and volunteer to conduct research on a community-based conservation project in Kenya and work on a project to serve orphans and vulnerable children in Tanzania

    • PATTON, CarlIn Her Own Words: “ It is my great pleasure to work with the students and staff at John Paul the Great Catholic High School.  For some time now it has been a desire of mine to serve Christ by serving young people, and I'm confident that our school year will be a blessed and fruitful one.  John Paul the Great, pray for us! ”

     

     

    Mr. Kelly Sharbel

    Chair, History Department

  • M.S. in Education from Old Dominion University
  • M.S. in Public Relations from The American University
  • B.S. in Political Science from Middle Tennessee State University
  • Professional experience includes 27 years in the federal and state legislative arena including Chief of Staff and Press Secretary for two Members of Congress, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs.

    • SHARBEL, KellyIn His Own Words: “I am excited and humbled by the opportunity to teach at Pope John Paul the Great; excited about being a part of establishing an academic institution that will add meaning to the lives of its students, families, and faculty; and humbled by the challenge of helping lay the foundation of an institution that will glorify God. --Teaching is my second career. While serving in the public policy arena, I was able to feed my history “habit” by traveling to places like the restored city of Babylon and the ruins of Carthage.  I also became more aware of the great role and traditions of the Church and its impact on human development when I traveled to several European capitals.  One more note to share: as a child, I attended Catholic schools in Nashville, Tennessee, where I was taught by Dominican nuns from Sister Mary Jordan’s mother house.  Life is such a small circle and I have gone completely around mine.”

     

    Mr. Jeremy Sienkiewicz

    Latin, World History Teacher

  • M.A. in Theology from The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.
  • B.A. in Theology, English Literature, and Medieval Studies from the University of Notre Dame, IN
  • Founding faculty member of the Bishop Helmsing Institute
  • Adjunct and teaching assistant at the Catholic University of America in Theology.

    • SHARBEL, KellyIn His Own Words: “To serve Christ through His Blessed Mother at John Paul the Great is an amazing blessing!  He has already graced me with my wonderful wife Catherine, and my three children: Mary, Jude, and Leo.  His greatness is made even more manifest in helping me and the students at John Paul the Great to grow in knowledge, holiness and charity.  I am truly humbled to be a part of the faculty.”

     

    Miss Paige Smith

    English and Religion Teacher

  • M.Ed., University of Notre Dame
  • M.T.S., Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family
  • B.A. in English and Education, The Catholic University of America
  • Adjunct Faculty Member for the University of Notre Dame’s M.Ed. program

    • SMITH, PaigeIn Her Own Words: “I see our school’s innovate bioethics curriculum committed and ordered to the truth of the human person as not only a remembrance of the papacy of John Paul II but a beautiful task and mission to incarnate the Gospel of Life in this present moment of the Church. I look forward to accompanying students as they pose and respond to questions of the deepest desires of the human heart through education lived fundamentally as an encounter with Christ.”

     

    Dr. Patricia H. Smith, Ed.D

    Director of Guidance and Counseling

  • Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from the College of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences at Argosy University, Sarasota, FL.
  • Master of Education in Counselor Education from the Psychology Department at Millersville University, Millersville, PA
  • 18 years of counseling and teaching experience at the university/college and high school levels
  • o Areas of Interests: Change Management, Human Resource Management, and Personal/Career Development

    • SMITH, PatriciaIn Her Own Words: “The opportunity to integrate guidance and counseling with a bioethics curriculum is what attracted me to Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School. I believe that when we are grounded in faith and have respect for human life we can achieve our goals. As the Director of Guidance and Counseling, I am committed to collaborating with the schools teachers, administrators, parents/guardians to guide students toward academic achievement, and spiritual, social and career development. I have been in education for 18 years but working at Pope John Paul the Great Catholic High School under the leadership of the Dominican Sisters of St. Ceciliais both spiritually and intellectually uplifting.”

     

    Mr. Mark St. Germain:

    Director of Athletics, Head Boys Lacrosse Coach

  • B.A. in American Studies from the University of Iowa
  • More than 15 years professional experience in education as a teacher, assistant athletic director, varsity lacrosse coach and football coach at area schools including St. Albans, Flint Hill, and St. Stephen & St. Agnes.
  • Multiple teams led to championships including, most recently, Interstate Athletic Conference Champions (football), and Co-Champions (lacrosse) both with St. Alban’s in 2007.

    • St. Germain, MarkIn His Own Words: “I am very excited about this opportunity to help create a Catholic institution dedicated to the growth and development of the mind, body and spirit of young people. -- I am the last of seven children, four boys and three girls.  I have been happily married for 11 years to my wife Christine, and have two really great boys.”

     

    Mrs. Lori Strickland:

    Registrar

  • B.S. in Health Information Management from Bowling Green State University in Ohio
  • Eight years of hospital management experience including Inova Fairfax, Georgetown and University Hospitals of Cleveland
  • Substitute teacher at St. Thomas Aquinas Regional School in Woodbridge, VA

    • Strickland, LoriIn Her Own Words: “Pope John Paul said 'do not separate your faith from your daily life and your daily life from your faith.' It is truly a blessing to work in an environment where I can practice my faith and see young people grow in theirs. It is a privilege to be a part of this newly formed Catholic high school community and to assist the students who will be the future of the Church. My two wonderful children will have been educated by the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia from kindergarten through high school and that is another blessing to be grateful for."

     

    Mrs. Diana Tillotson

    Director of Development

  • MBA, Computer Information Systems, Georgia State University
  • BBA, Finance, Hofstra University
  • 20 years consulting and HR experience working in financial and professional services industry primarily at Big 4 accounting firms
  • Proud wife, and mother of three children

    • TILLOTSON, DianaIn Her Own Words: “As a strong believer in Catholic Education, I felt called to leave a successful career in the private sector to lend my talents and abilities to help establish John Paul the Great. –In addition to my professional life, I am married and am the proud mom of three beautiful children –my greatest accomplishment!”

     

    Mrs. Cynthia Trax

    Director of Library Services, Digital Photography Teacher

  • M.S. in Library Science from the Catholic University of America, Washington D.C.
  • B.A. in English, University of Mary Washington, Departmental Honors, Cum Laude
  • Commissioned by the Arlington Diocese Education for Parish Service from Trinity College, Washington, D.C.
  • 30+ years of teaching experiencefounder of three private elementary schools
  • Adjunct professor at the Montessori Institute for Teacher Education, Wilmington, DE, and The Virginia Center for Montessori Studies, Richmond, VA
  • Great Books Leader/Facilitator

    • TRAX, CynthiaIn Her Own Words: “I am in awe of the opportunities being offered to me. I have not only been invited to establish a new library for a Catholic School, but God is blessing me with the opportunity to live out my teaching vocation in a faith filled community where He literally, and figuratively, resides at the center. My cup overflows!"

     

    Mr. Don Turner
    Director of Facilities, Assistant Football Coach

  • 10 years as a telecommunication specialist
  • 8 years as an IT specialist
  • 8 years in facilities infrastructure management
  • 4 years in building safety & security management

    • TURNER, DonaldIn His Own Words: "People often spend a lifetime searching for community, experiences, and opportunities that makes sense in their life.  Accepting the Facilities Director position at Pope John Paul the Great and becoming part of this community made complete sense to me.  I Every day I am drawn closer to God and my Catholic community."

     

    Ms. Tricia Zackrisson                                                   

    School Counselor

  • M.A. in Counseling from Franciscan University of Steubenville
  • B.A. in Religion from the College of William and Mary
  • Professional experience includes providing substance abuse treatment to adolescents, counseling pregnant and parenting adolescent females, and serving U.S. mission dioceses through the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
  • Previous short and long-term mission experiences in Honduras, Florida, and Appalachia

    • ZUBERBUELER, MatthewIn Her Own Words: “Since I first heard about Pope John Paul the Great High School, I was struck by its unique mission to create an atmosphere of faith, respect, and academic excellence in order to nurture the dignity and special gifts of each student.  I am reminded of a quote by St. Irenaeus: “The glory of God is man fully alive.”  I believe our mission is just that – to glorify God by assisting our students to discover who He is calling them to be."

     

    Rev. Matthew Zuberbueler

    Chaplain

  • B.A. in Philosophy from Christendom College, Front Royal, VA
  • M. Div from Mount St. Marys Seminary, Emmitsburg, MD
  • Ordained priest for Diocese of Arlington on Pope John Paul IIs birthday, May 18, 1996, at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More
  • Priestly assignments include: St. Timothy, Chantilly; Blessed Sacrament, Alexandria; Cathedral of St. Thomas More, Arlington; Sacred Heart of Jesus, Winchester and St. Bridget Mission, Berryville

    • ZUBERBUELER, MatthewIn His Own Words: “One of the most exciting things to happen in our Diocese lately is the realization of this new High School, named for His Holiness, Pope John Paul II. I am happy, humbled, and feel privileged to be a part of this school and of its noble mission in preparing enthusiastic young workers for the Church's constant adventure of evangelization."

     

    Bios and Photos Coming Soon for the Following Valued Members of our Faculty and Staff!

    Ms. Brittany Forsythe, Receptionist

    Mr. John Picciano, Security and Transportation Coordinator

    Mr. Joe Redding, Business Manager

    Mr. Jon Trax, Cafeteria Staff

    Guarding the deposit of faith is the mission which the Lord has entrusted to his Church and which she fulfils in every age. (Fidei Depositum, 11 October 1992) May we persevere with the task. Pope John Paul the Great pray for us!

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