Dr. Heaton has over 24 years of experience in K-12 education, with a passion for teaching and learning and a proven track record of transformative leadership in urban Title I schools. Influenced by his upbringing with a single mother and a Filipino grandfather who valued education, hard work, and social justice, he became a first-generation college student, earning a degree in Elementary Education.
Dr. Heaton started his career teaching ELA, reading intervention, and special education in Title I schools in Texas. His commitment to improving low-performing schools led him to earn additional degrees in education administration and supervision. As Lead Principal in south central Los Angeles, he spearheaded a turnaround effort that significantly improved academic outcomes, increased student enrollment, retained faculty and staff, and engaged community partners.
