EduCurious Interview with Kyle Kirkner: Coach in the Classroom

In a recent insightful conversation on EduCurious, local educator and boys' soccer coach Kyle Kirkner shared his unique path into the teaching profession and his philosophies on connecting with middle school students. Far from a traditional route, Kirkner’s journey highlights the diverse experiences that can enrich the classroom.

Initially graduating with a business degree and working in sales—first selling building inspections and later in the local citrus industry—Kirkner found himself seeking a more rewarding career. Dabbling in substitute teaching around 2018 opened a new door. After exploring various grade levels, including fourth and fifth, he discovered his true calling teaching eighth-grade literature and writing. "I really love where I am," Kirkner shared, emphasizing the "symbiotic relationship" he feels with his students. "I get the kids; they get me."

A significant part of Kirkner's connection with students stems from his lifelong passion for soccer, a sport he played collegiately and now coaches, sometimes alongside his own mentor—his father. He sees powerful parallels between coaching and teaching. Whether it's demonstrating an in-step drive on the field or explaining how to write a conclusion in the classroom, the core principle is mentorship. He utilizes an "I do, we do, you do" approach, focusing on building skills incrementally. Crucially, Kirkner believes success hinges on trust, built through genuine authenticity. "Nobody is going to want to learn from you if they don't trust you... I've just always led with the relationship first," he explained.

Kirkner finds immense joy in witnessing student growth, particularly the development of individuality he observes as students mature from elementary to middle school. He cherishes the "aha!" moments when a concept clicks for a student or even a whole class. To foster a welcoming and engaging environment, he incorporates student interests, uses relatable examples (even putting student names into test questions!), and maintains a dynamic classroom space with student-suggested whiteboard drawings and flags representing student backgrounds.

Inspired by mentors like his father and readings on youth psychology (like Dr. David Yeager's 10 to 25), Kirkner adopts a "mentor mentality," aiming to build on students' existing strengths rather than solely focusing on correction—a philosophy echoed by NBA shooting coach Chip Engelland. He referenced the Maori concept of waka mana – giving power – emphasizing the importance of empowering students.

Looking ahead, Kirkner is pursuing a Master's in Educational Leadership with aspirations of becoming an assistant principal. While passionate about his work, he acknowledges challenges in education, primarily the need for better funding and more robust community involvement, urging a consistent focus on student needs over external politics.

His advice to others considering education, or simply wanting to make a difference? Be authentic, build real relationships, and get involved. For Kirkner, the reward lies in seeing students succeed and knowing he played a part—a reward far greater than any sales commission. His journey reminds us that passion, mentorship, and genuine connection are at the heart of impactful education.