September 2025 Spotlight: Anne Pass

It is my great honor to present Anne Pass as the 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 in 2021, Anne has brought an unmistakable spirit of positivity and warmth to our school community. One of the first things that stood out to me was how quickly she made it her practice to greet every Lower School student at the door, by name and with a smile. That simple gesture has become a powerful daily reminder to our students that they are seen, known, and valued.

Anne’s influence extends throughout the day in both visible and behind-the-scenes ways. She willingly steps in wherever she sees an ability to help, whether organizing student workers for Multicultural Night, supporting the Lower School’s annual art show, or giving her own time during the SuperNova Music and Film Festival to make sure it succeeds. She serves as a Playworks Lead as well as ensuring that all students safely board their buses each afternoon. At lunch and recess, she provides steady guidance that helps create a safe, joyful environment for students, reinforcing the lessons of teamwork and respect that extend beyond the classroom.

Her contributions also strengthen the broader school community. Anne lends her energy to events that showcase student learning and celebrate our diverse cultures, often working behind the scenes to ensure that details are handled and that teachers and students alike can shine. In these ways, she not only supports individual activities but also builds the sense of connection that makes Nova unique.

What sets Anne apart is not only what she does, but how she does it. She demonstrates fortitude through her reliability and readiness to help, prudence in recognizing when and how to step in, and temperance in her thoughtful balance between encouragement and action. She reflects justice in her willingness to serve for the benefit of others, and wisdom in her deep understanding that kindness can transform a community. Her impact is felt not only by students, but also by colleagues who are lifted by her positivity and encouraged by her example.

On behalf of Nova Classical Academy, I am proud to recognize and celebrate Anne Pass for her remarkable contributions. We are deeply grateful for the joy, dedication, and countless acts of service she brings to our school and for the lasting impact she has on our community.

It’s a Great Day to Be a Knight!

Dr. Brett Wedlund
Executive Director