Hi! My name is Heather Ryan!

I am so glad you are here.

You're probably interested in knowing a little more about me, so let's get started!

I attended the University of Central Florida where I obtained a Masters degree in Education. For the past 18 years I have been teaching elementary school and have loved every minute of it. During my teaching career, I got married to my wonderful husband and together we have two boys, Lucas and Elliot, who are 8 and 5 years old.

HOW I GOT STARTED WITH ISR

My journey into ISR began the same way many parents find their way here—with a deep desire to protect my own children around the water. As a mom, I understood how quickly little ones can move and how unpredictable water can be. I wanted skills that went beyond traditional swim lessons… skills that could truly make a difference in an emergency.

In 2022, I trained to become an ISR instructor, a process that challenged and inspired me in all the best ways. I spent the next two years hosting lessons at Columbus Swim and Scuba, gaining experience, confidence, and a deep appreciation for how capable children are when they’re supported with patience, structure, and trust.

In 2025, life shifted. My boys needed more of me at home, and after my husband sustained a spinal cord injury caused by a DAVF of the spine in 2024, our family’s needs changed even more. Bringing lessons home allowed me to continue serving families while staying present for the people who depend on me most. It became the perfect balance—teaching a program I believe in while creating a calmer, more flexible environment for both my students and my family.

Today, I run a home‑based ISR program serving families across Columbus, Phenix City, Auburn, and beyond. Every lesson is personal to me. I honor each child’s pace, celebrate their courage, and partner closely with parents so they feel informed and supported every step of the way.

What started as a desire to protect my own children has grown into a mission to help others. And I’m grateful every day for the chance to teach life‑saving skills that truly matter.

ISR holds a special place in my heart, and I'm thrilled to share my expertise in aquatic safety with you and your children. I eagerly anticipate meeting new students and reconnecting with previous ones.

GET STARTED NOW

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FAQs
How do the kids react during the first few lessons?
Children often fuss during the first few lessons because they are in a new environment and around new people. As your child becomes more confident in his/her ability in the water, the fussing will decrease. It is not unlike the first time you tried a new exercise class or were asked to perform a task at work that you’d never done before: the first time you try a new task it is always challenging, until you get the hang of it. It is the same for your young child. Your child is learning to perform a skill that he/she’s never done before.
How is it that babies can learn to respond to the danger of water when they fall in?
A baby does not need to perceive danger or be afraid to respond appropriately to being underwater. If a baby has learned to roll over and float when he needs air, he doesn't need to perceive danger in order to respond in this manner. He needs skill, practice and confidence to calmly deal with the situation.
I hear you say your priority is survival skills. Will my child learn to actually swim?
Yes. At ISR, we believe that part of survival for a child who can walk is swimming. Children learn the swim-float-swim sequence so that they could get themselves to safety. The difference in our program is that they will learn swimming AND survival skills and how to be an aquatic problem solver.
Do parents have to leave during the lessons?
No. You are truly the best cheerleader your child could have. Your positive support and encouragement are invaluable to creating an effective learning environment for your child.

Reach out today

We would love to hear from you.

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