Business Details
18 Years
experience
Your Catholic College Prep High School in Potomac Shores, VA
Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School was founded in 2008 under the leadership of Bishop Paul S. Loverde as a college preparatory institution rooted in the Dominican tradition of prayer, study, community, and service. Our mission centers on Jesus Christ, guiding students to pursue Veritas (Truth) through rigorous academics, spiritual growth, and ethical formation. We emphasize the dignity of every individual through our Bioethics program, which explores the moral implications of human life in alignment with Catholic teachings. Our faculty, 70% of whom hold advanced degrees, deliver a curriculum enriched by 15+ dual enrollment courses, preparing students for higher education and lifelong service.The House System fosters a close-knit community where students develop leadership and camaraderie. With a 100% graduation rate and over $20 million in college scholarships awarded, we combine academic excellence with faith-based character development. Our athletic programs, including 22 sports teams, and performing arts initiatives cultivate well-rounded individuals. As a Diocesan school in Arlington, we collaborate closely with families to nurture students' spiritual, intellectual, and social growth. Our commitment to service, inspired by the Dominican principle of contemplation and action, equips graduates to lead with integrity and compassion in a complex world.
Services
College Preparatory Curriculum
Bioethics Program
House System
Dual Enrollment Courses
Athletics Programs
Performing Arts
Special Services
Summer Camps
Admissions Guidance
Counseling Services
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer a rigorous college preparatory curriculum rooted in Catholic values.
- Our Bioethics program emphasizes the dignity of each person through theological and scientific study.
- We maintain a 100% graduation rate and have awarded over $20 million in scholarships.
- Our House System fosters community, leadership, and lifelong friendships.
- We provide 22 sports programs and extensive performing arts opportunities for holistic development.
Services
College Preparatory Curriculum
Our college preparatory curriculum combines academic rigor with Catholic moral formation, preparing students for higher education and lifelong ethical leadership. Students engage in critical thinking, STEM, humanities, and theology courses. The program emphasizes intellectual curiosity and real-world application, ensuring graduates excel in college and beyond.
Bioethics Program
The Bioethics program integrates Catholic teachings with scientific inquiry, exploring human dignity, medical ethics, and environmental stewardship. Students analyze contemporary issues through theological and philosophical lenses. This unique approach equips them to address complex moral challenges in healthcare, law, and public policy.
House System
The House System creates smaller communities within the school, fostering mentorship, teamwork, and leadership. Each house competes in academic, spiritual, and athletic events, strengthening school spirit. This structure promotes belonging and personal growth through intergrade relationships.
Dual Enrollment Courses
Students earn college credits through 15+ dual enrollment courses taught by university-certified faculty. These courses bridge high school and college academics, reducing future tuition costs. Subjects include theology, literature, and STEM fields, enhancing college applications and readiness.
Athletics Programs
With 22 sports teams, our athletics program builds discipline, teamwork, and physical wellness. Students compete in regional leagues while learning sportsmanship and perseverance. Coaches emphasize character development alongside athletic excellence, aligning with our mission of holistic education.
Questions
What is the mission of Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School?
Our mission is to ethically form youth through academic rigor and Catholic faith, rooted in Dominican traditions of prayer, study, community, and service.
What academic programs do you offer?
We provide college preparatory courses, Bioethics curriculum, and 15+ dual enrollment options to prepare students for higher education and ethical leadership.
How does the House System work?
The House System divides students into smaller groups for mentorship, competition, and community-building through intergrade activities and leadership opportunities.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We offer 22 sports teams, performing arts, clubs, and service projects, ensuring students develop diverse talents and interests.
How can I apply for admissions?
Prospective families can schedule tours, shadow days, or virtual visits through our website and complete the application process online.
Reviews (5)
Cindy
Nov 03, 2018
Report
Fantastic school for religious education. The bioethics program is amazing! My child will go into the world sharing his knowledge. But dont go here if you have an athletic child that likes competition and has a desire to play in college or wants to have any fun at school. They give detention for wearing the wrong uniform socks and cheering to loud at games.
ECDurant
Dec 14, 2016
Report
JP is a wonderful high school. My son and daughter have had the best experience and have really enjoyed their time there. We transferred our eldest from public school to JP and have seen an incredible difference. The school cares very much for their kids and truly show it. The academics are top-notch. We have no doubt they are being well-prepared for college. One of our favorite aspects of the school is the compatibility with academics and athletics and extracurricular activities. The school hosts a study-hall after school in the cafeteria and library, there are abundant opportunities for tutoring
Cory Ahn
Oct 02, 2015
Report
As a parent of a freshman, Saint John Paul the Great Catholic HS is the best place for him to grow in the Catholic faith, excel in academics (many Honors and AP courses to take in the coming years), and become part of a team in sports (XC, wrestling, and Lacrosse) and music (band). The priest, sisters, teachers, and coaches are excellent. Tuition is a financial sacrifice but worth it for the high quality of people my son gets to interact with for 4 years. God certainly has created something very special for my son and his many wonderful friends here. Please check it out and may God allow this school
Heather Escamilla
Sep 18, 2015
Report
This school is AMAZING! The love that the faculty and staff have for their students, their subject matter and God is apparent in everything they do. Students are being prepared to be thinkers and to challenge others in their thoughts as well. The environment is very conducive to learning yet there are many opportunities for fun too. JP is a wonderful place to have your children and I am very glad mine are there.
Cms Appraisals Inc
Nov 06, 2014
Report
Excellent education. My daughter got 2200 SAT scores, Got accepted to all colleges she applied, including Yale University. She finally choose University of Virginia. Doing great in college. The school teaches the kids to study. The catholic curriculum is very good including bioethics program. We have been in public schools and there is no comparison. I am ready to get my other children on this school.
