Coach Heaton graduated from Charleston High School in 2005. He lettered in football receiving All-Conference and All-District honors. He was also a member of the 2005 Lions Club All Star Football Team.

Ryan graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with a minor in Coaching. He was also a member of the SEMO football team for two years. He also graduated with a Master of Arts in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Pedagogy from the University of Central Missouri and a Master of Arts in Administration K-12 from Southeast Missouri State University.

Ryan is going into his 5th year at Jackson. He teaches Physical Education at Orchard Drive Elementary. He lives in Jackson with his wife, Catherine and has two daughters Charlotte (6) & Eva (3).