January 2026 Spotlight: Mikayla Landrum

It is my great honor to present Mikayla Landrum as this month’s recipient of the Nova Classical Spotlight Award. This award was established to recognize individuals who exemplify Nova Classical Academy’s commitment to academic excellence, virtue, and a thriving school community. Through their outstanding dedication, they inspire those around them and contribute meaningfully to our pursuit of learning not for school, but for life.

Since joining Nova Classical Academy, Mikayla has become an essential presence in our Upper School, serving as the counselor for students in grades eight through twelve. In just over two years, she has distinguished herself through her steady leadership, deep care for students, and ability to manage complex responsibilities with clarity and compassion. Her work touches nearly every aspect of the Upper School experience, and her impact is felt daily by students, families, and staff alike.

Mikayla supports students’ academic, social, and emotional development with remarkable intentionality. She advises all upper school students on postsecondary planning, coordinates college information sessions, and ensures students and families have the guidance they need to navigate an often overwhelming process. She builds all upper school schedules, coordinates all K through twelve Section 504 plans, and oversees ACT, PSAT, and AP testing. Each of these responsibilities requires precision, organization, and thoughtful communication, and Mikayla handles them with consistency and care.

Beyond her formal responsibilities, Mikayla plays a vital role in shaping the culture of the Upper School. She serves as the advisor for Bring Change to Mind, supporting students as they engage in meaningful conversations around mental health and well being. She is a steady presence at school events and has supported students beyond the classroom, including attending the eighth grade Washington DC trip and other key Upper School activities. Her willingness to show up, even with an already full plate, speaks to her deep commitment to students and the broader school community.

What truly sets Mikayla apart is the way she does her work. She brings warmth, calm, and clarity to every interaction. She navigates complex systems and approaches challenges with thoughtfulness and grace. Students trust her. Families rely on her. Colleagues know they can count on her. She balances a tremendous amount of responsibility while maintaining a steady, reassuring presence that makes others feel supported and heard.

Mikayla embodies the virtues that Nova Classical seeks to cultivate in its community. Her prudence guides her decision making, her fortitude sustains her through demanding work, and her wisdom shows in the way she centers students in every choice she makes. She brings not only expertise, but also heart, to everything she does.

On behalf of Nova Classical Academy, I am proud to recognize and celebrate Mikayla Landrum for her outstanding contributions to our school. We are deeply grateful for the care, dedication, and professionalism she brings to her role, and for the positive impact she continues to have on our students and families.

It’s a Great Day to be a Knight!

Dr. Brett Wedlund
Executive Director