BHS class of 1989 graduate Eric Toot is a retiring teacher and coach. 2024 – 2025 will be his last year teaching and possibly coaching for BJHS and BHS. Toot coached and taught for many years at BJHS as the 7th grade Social Studies teacher.

“ I’ve taught and coached in Baldwin for 31 years. I also coached basketball while attending College, so for 34 years I’ve coached at some level,” Toot said.

Toot talks about how it was working in the same place he went to school.

“It was a great experience because you are invested in the community and that makes it more than just another job,” Toot said.

Toot working at BHS for many years has made memories that last a lifetime.

“My best memories are just being around all the successful athletes I’ve had the privilege to coach and to witness their successes from close up. I have great memories of coaching multiple sports at all different levels and seeing numerous kids accomplish great achievements and success,” Toot said.

Toot taught and coached his two daughters when they were in middle school.

“Coaching my own kids was a great experience and allowed me to spend time with them that I wouldn’t have if I didn’t coach. There were some difficult times during the experiences because of how coaches’ kids are perceived by some but overall it was a positive experience,” Toot said.

Toot has coached many sports other than basketball in BHS.

“ For USD 348 I’ve coached football, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls track, and girls golf. Outside of school I’ve also coached basketball, volleyball, soccer and softball,” Toot said.

Toot has already made plans for when he retires next year.

“My current plans are to be a driver in some capacity. There are numerous opportunities for bus drivers and driving services in our area and I have enjoyed my experiences as a driver since I got my CDL,” Toot said.