Teaching and Coaching with Purpose

Kyle Casperson ’24 is a Middle School PE and Health Teacher at Hamlin Middle School and the Head Baseball Coach at Springfield High School—both located in Springfield, Oregon. He earned his Bachelor of Science in secondary teacher education with endorsements in PE and health from Bushnell University in 2024. Casperson credits Bushnell’s rigorous education program and dedicated faculty with preparing him not just to manage a classroom but to lead with confidence, character, and purpose. 

A former student-athlete, Casperson played baseball for the Beacons from 2022 to 2024. His senior year was especially memorable: he led the team with a .396 batting average and earned All-Conference and Gold Glove honors. The latter award recognized his outstanding defensive abilities, highlighting his quick reflexes, reliable glove, and consistent excellence in the field. He capped off his career with the unforgettable moment of graduating in the morning and then flying to Georgia that same night to compete in the program’s first-ever NAIA regional appearance. “That was, without a doubt, the most fun I have ever had in a season,” Casperson says.

His experience on the field and in the classroom shaped his passion for education and coaching. His teaching philosophy is grounded in discipline, faith, and a process-over-outcome mindset. In this Q&A, he reflects on his first year in the classroom, the mentors who shaped his journey, and his advice for future educators and coaches. 

Can you tell us about your current job and what a typical day looks like for you?
A typical day in my life consists of working with my 8th grade kiddos, then 6th, then 7th grade at Hamlin Middle School. I teach PE and Health here, and it’s a great experience! After school I typically head home to regroup before our nightly practice. It’s always a good feeling seeing the Bushnell baseball players each day before practice and during games, and to see their success as well. Being the Head Coach of the Springfield High School baseball program is very rewarding.  

How did your education at Bushnell University prepare you for your career path? 
Without the rigorous education program that Bushnell provides, I definitely would not have been prepared for this job. The amazing faculty and staff, mixed with the 1,000 hours of classroom experience over 2 years, prepared me to be the best teacher I can be! However, it is just my first year and I have a ton of growth to be had. Not only did they prepare me to teach, but to be confident in an interview, work and reach out with the community, and always put God first.  

What experiences or opportunities at Bushnell University were most influential in shaping your career?
The academic journey that I went on at Bushnell was amazing. The resources that the education department has are beneficial and necessary for the growth of college students. Getting a first-hand look into teaching for two years before we have our own classroom was the best experience they could offer. On the flip side, being on the baseball diamond, especially the first three years of the program, gave lessons that I didn’t know were possible. How to be persistent, have a long-term vision for success, and prioritizing process over outcome are some of the main lessons I learned during my time there. I am grateful for my time under Tommy Richards, Jamie Womack, Matt Hubbs, and Mike Takamori as they molded me into the faith-based man I am today.  

Can you share a significant challenge you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?
Middle school students will tell you how it is with no filter! You have to have thick skin to chat with these kids.  

Teaching on my own for the first couple of weeks was very intimidating, as the kids will challenge most things. Setting standards and expectations for the very little things in class is very important. The more structure given to students, the better!  

What advice would you give to current Bushnell University students who are interested in pursuing a similar career?
It is the most rewarding feeling that one can feel in a career. Helping students learn, overcome challenges, and believe in themselves, whether in the classroom or the baseball field, is the coolest feeling. It can be difficult, but keep your head up! The good days will outweigh the bad ones by far, and we are fighting the good fight in our career. And, we have summers off!!