Administration
Principal Austin Morris
I am the principal and instructional leader of A.L. Stanback Middle School, committed to student success and educational excellence for every learner. I was appointed principal in 2025 after serving as Human Resources Director for Caswell County Schools. My career spans roles as a secondary English Language Arts and social studies teacher, assistant principal, district program administrator, and school leader across multiple North Carolina districts. I’m also a proud parent of two children who have attended A.L. Stanback, and I am deeply invested in supporting students, families, and staff in our school community.
I began my teaching career as a North Carolina Teaching Fellow and hold degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Wake Forest University, and Elon University School of Law. Guided by the missions of Orange County Schools and A.L. Stanback Middle School, I focus on creating a safe, inclusive, and rigorous learning environment that engages, challenges, and inspires all students. I prioritize strong relationships, high expectations, and equitable opportunities, partnering with students, staff, families, and the community to help middle school learners grow into confident, responsible young adults prepared to achieve their goals.
Assistant Principal Wyn Payton
I am honored to share that I have served Orange County Schools for the past 16 years, including the last 12 years at Albert Leon Stanback Middle School. ALS has truly become home, and I am proud to be part of such a strong and supportive school community.
My professional passions include student leadership, building community, and helping students develop self-awareness and confidence. Outside of school, I enjoy running, spending time outdoors, and spending time with my family.
In my role as Assistant Principal, my goal is to empower both students and staff to reach their highest potential. Each day, I am reminded of the incredible impact we can have when we foster a culture rooted in growth, support, and excellence. Together, as a school community, we create an environment where every individual is valued and success is a shared achievement.
Assistant Principal Heather Witherspoon
Being at ALS fills my heart because I get to learn alongside incredible students and staff every day, and in the middle of it all, there’s always room for laughter. Our school culture is one of warmth, connection, and continuous growth, and I’m grateful to be part of it. I bring 26 years of experience in education, including classroom teaching, school administration, and district-level leadership. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Middle Grades Education and a master’s degree in School Administration, both from North Carolina Central University.
Throughout my career, I have worked with students from diverse backgrounds, consistently focusing on creating supportive, engaging, and equitable learning environments. I am a former college athlete who enjoys watching all sports, traveling, listening to good music, spending time with friends, and family.