Kirsten Blase, 2026 HSCToY
Kirstin Blase, a veteran educator known for her “rigorous yet joyful” classroom environment, was selected for her innovative approach to demystifying complex science and her success in bridging the gap between high school curriculum and cutting-edge university research.
Connecting Chemistry to the Real World
At the heart of Blase’s teaching philosophy is the belief that chemistry should never feel “out of reach.” By removing the stigma that chemistry is inherently hard, she empowers her students to embrace academic challenges with confidence.
“I believe that students should be able to connect chemistry to the world they encounter on a daily basis,” says Blase. “The key is to help them believe they can accomplish challenging things and to demystify research so they see science as accessible rather than intimidating.”
The Power of Narrative and Research
Blase’s instruction is distinguished by “narrative weaving,” a method where she uses powerful, real-world stories to make abstract concepts stick. A hallmark of her curriculum is her lesson on enantiomers, where she uses the historical case study of thalidomide to teach students about molecular structures while sparking critical discussions on ethics and the real-world consequences of chemical applications.
Beyond the classroom, Blase is a dedicated lifelong learner. For the past three years, she has partnered with Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) to participate in active research laboratories. Her work has spanned diverse topics, including:
- Microfluidics of infectious diseases
- Nanomaterials for solar energy conversion
- Crystal defects and surface structure effects on semiconductor nanocrystals
Blase translates this high-level research into grade-appropriate lessons, giving her students an authentic look at how chemistry is practiced in modern laboratories.
A Culture of Trust and Excellence
Blase’s impact is perhaps most visible in the culture of her classroom. Known for fostering deep intellectual and emotional connections, she has created a space where students feel safe taking intellectual risks. Her reputation preceded her during a recent observation, where one student simply noted, “We all love her. She is famous here.”
“Kirstin Blase does more than just teach formulas; she inspires curiosity and ethical awareness,” said Chris Mohr. “Her ability to maintain high academic expectations while ensuring every student feels supported is the hallmark of an exceptional educator.”