Ruth Heaton
Ruth Heaton is a dedicated middle school science teacher of sixteen years, with the last seven years teaching at Apollo Middle School in Tucson, AZ With a rich background as a research scientist, Ruth brings a unique perspective to the classroom, integrating her expertise in microbiology, leukemia research, and forensic plant-DNA studies into engaging science lessons. She emphasizes building strong relationships with her students, using real-world examples and current events to make science relevant and inspire curiosity. Before returning to teaching, Ruth spent nearly two decades as a research scientist, including fifteen years at the University of Arizona and two years at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center studying leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. She also contributed to a landmark case that was the first to use plant DNA in a criminal investigation, showcasing her early involvement in innovative scientific work. Her research background informs her hands-on, inquiry-based teaching approach, helping students understand complex concepts through practical examples. Ruth holds a degree in microbiology from the University of Arizona and has received numerous accolades for her teaching, including being named Arizona Middle School Science Teacher of the Year in 2007. She has led student trips internationally to destinations such as Japan, the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Paris, Barcelona, Costa Rica, and Washington D.C., reflecting her commitment to experiential learning. Ruth’s professional focus is on fostering student growth both academically and personally, ensuring that each student has the support and encouragement needed to succeed.
• Teaching Certificate
• University of Arizona- M.L.S.
• University of Arizona- B.S.
• University of Arizona- B.A.
• Walden University- M.S.
• Arizona Middle School Science Teacher of the Year
• Arizona Education Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a lot of things. I come from a line of teachers - my dad's mother and his two sisters and brother were also teachers, and I look up to them because they were such wonderful, smart people. Both my parents were really good about making sure we stayed in school and studied. I'm a first-generation immigrant, so I think that really drove me to do well in school, and just be a good person overall. I remember thinking, when I get older I want to be able to help my parents with English. They instilled in my sisters and me that going to school so we could have good jobs was the reason we came to America. The "American Dream" wasn't a given, it was an opportunity we couldn't blow. My sisters and I were latchkey kids, much like the rest of our generation, so we understood self reliance. Yes as a family unit, we had each other, but knowing I could be independent, really helped guide me through junior high and beyond. I became a scientist and a teacher. I am hard working, I am a problem solver, I am a leader, and I am compassionate. I never measured my success by my career choice or how much money I make. I measure my success by my happiness.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice wasn't actually "career advice." Simply, noone ever said I couldn't.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Whether it be science research or education, believe in yourself and believe in what you are doing. Your confidence is what you make if it. And don't be afraid to make mistakes, we can't learn or grow without them
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Education is arguably the most underappreciated, yet one of the most important, professions in the USA. Teacher salaries in Arizona are some of the lowest in the nation. I took a 40% pay cut when I transitioned from research to education. I went back to research after six years of teaching because I was in so much debt, I thought I was going to lose my house. If not for the kindness and generosity of my parents and my new job, I was able to keep my house and pay off my debts. When I decided to go back to teaching. I was in a much better place, and the pay cut was maybe 20%. A pay cut yes, but I was in a better place with my personal finances. When I moved to my current district, I was making almost as much as I was making doing research. After a year working for my district, I was making more money than I was doing research. More than the salary, I feel appreciated and supported by my school and the district.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are building and sustaining supportive relationships, prioritizing family, demonstrating perseverance, and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way. These principles guide both my teaching and personal life.