Jon was born in south central Missouri and grew up in the rural community of Eminence.  After entering high school, he transferred to Licking, MO where he graduated.  He attended college part time and worked in the feed industry until he graduated from Southwest Missouri State University in 1999 with a degree in Agricultural Education.  In 2003, he graduated from William Woods University with a degree in Secondary Administration, and in 2012, he began his studies at Missouri University pursuing a Doctoral degree. 

His first teaching position was with the Chadwick School District.  After one year, a position closer to home opened and Jon had the opportunity to move to the Gainesville School District.  Teaching there since 2000, he continues to build on the rich tradition that has been a part of the Gainesville FFA for years.

Jon has been active in the Missouri Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association (MVATA) serving as Secretary, Vice-President, and President.  He was selected as the Missouri Vocational Agriculture Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 2012.  In 2013, he was chosen as the Missouri Association for Career and Technical Educators (MOACTE) teacher of the year. 

Outside of school Jon enjoys spending time on the farm.  He resides in Douglas County on the farm with his wife April.  Raising beef cattle is the main staple of the farm.   

When he is not working, he likes to spend his free time hunting and fishing with his boys.  He enjoys music and plays guitar on a regular basis.  He is also an avid runner and competes in Ultra Marathons.