Administration

Lora Austin, Principal

Hello, Walter Johnson Middle School! We are all BUZZing with excitement for this 2022-2023 school year to begin. We will offer many new experiences this year that bring Learning to Life. We will work this year to really be the AUTHORS OF OUR STORIES and ready to share ALL that the Jackets are learning with our community.

A little bit about me… I am a mom of two lovely daughters, Keely and Hannah, and the wife of Chuck Austin. We live in the “one-stop sign town” of Collettsville. I am a Tar Heel and a Mountaineer, and a middle-level educator. I am thrilled to serve the Walter Johnson Middle School Community where I taught when the school opened. This is my fourth year as principal of Walter Johnson Middle School. I’m so excited to serve this wonderful community of learners.

WJMS has been GROWING students like no other! I know that we will build on that tradition. Let us be patient and understanding of each other during this time of learning and experiencing together. Please reach out to me if you have any questions at (828) 430-7340. GO, Yellow Jackets!

Jerry Robinson
Assistant Principal

I am a native of Fayetteville, NC. My family and I reside in Valdese, NC. Prior to becoming an administrator, I taught middle school and high school band for 14 years between Cumberland County, Durham Public Schools in NC, and Richland School District One in South Carolina. I have taught AP Music Theory, Fine Arts Appreciation, General Music, Jazz Band, Marching Band, 8th-grade math, guitar, and AP Testing Coordinator. I am currently in my 2nd year as an AP at Walter Johnson Middle School.

I am a graduate of TI University of North Carolina at Greensboro-School of Music wIre I majored in Instrumental Music Education with a focus in Trumpet. I received my master's in Executive Leadership Studies from Gardner-Webb University. I am a current student at Gardner-Webb University earning my Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

I am married to Ginger Jones-Robinson who is also an educator. I have one amazing 3-year-old daughter, Maya Robinson. I enjoy spending time with his family and performing when I have the opportunity.

Whitney Kanupp
Assistant Principal

Hello! I am so thankful to experience my first year as an administrator at Walter Johnson. Before becoming an administrator, I previously taught at the elementary level for eleven years. I graduated from East Burke High and received my Associate’s Degree from Western Piedmont and my Bachelor’s Degree from Lees McRae College. I am currently enrolled at Appalachian State, pursuing my Master’s Degree in School Administration.

My family and I live in the George Hildebrand area. I am married to Lynn Kanupp, who also runs his own HVAC business servicing the local area. I have two children; an amazing 8-year-old daughter named Baylee and a 2-year-old son named Tripp. We enjoy spending time outside together as a family. I love to read, enjoy decorating, and am an avid hunter. My motto is “stay positive, work hard, and make it happen.”

I love Wally J, its community, students, and staff. I look forward to many years of growing together! Please reach out if you ever have any questions or concerns at 828-430-7340.

Walter JohnsonMiddle School

Administration