Panthers of ISKL #292: Kristl Quirante - The Global Panther
It’s SO MUCH FUN teaching G8 students about the world and how science helps us understand phenomena. We start our day with a check-in or review about the previous day’s learning, then dive into our exploration of the day - whether it’s something to do with chemical reactions, how heat transfers can help society, or the marvels of space. I laugh a lot with my students, helping them to see how everyday things can be explained through a scientific lens.
Every ISKL educator has a story and this Middle School Science teacher’s journey is one of global experience, a heart for service, and an unshakeable belief in the power of dreaming big.
Meet Kristal Quirante, born on a U.S. Navy base in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised in Buffalo, New York, she proudly identifies as a first-generation Filipina American. With a deep-rooted passion for science and education, her teaching path has taken her across continents from New York to Russia, China, and the Middle East before landing in Kuala Lumpur.
Here is Kristl’s story:
Please tell us more about yourself.
I was born in Memphis, Tennessee in the United States on a Navy base (my father was in the US Navy), but I grew up and spent most of my life in Buffalo, New York. I am a Filipina American (first generation), with two younger brothers. I have taught High School and Middle School Science in New York, Russia, China and the Middle East.
When and why did you join ISKL?
We joined in the 2024-2025 school year and have kept our eyes open for opportunities to teach at the school. Our colleagues and friends from previous schools have spoken so highly about the experiences and learning environment students can enjoy, as well as the growth and satisfaction of being a teacher here.
Can you tell us more about your MS Science teacher position? What are your daily activities? What is the most enjoyable and most challenging part of your job?
It is SO MUCH FUN to teach Grade 8 students about the world and how science can help us understand phenomena. We start our day with a check-in or review about the previous day’s learning, then we dive into our exploration of the day - whether it is something to do with chemical reactions, how heat transfers can help society, or the marvels of space. I laugh a lot with my students, helping them to see how everyday things can be explained through a scientific lens. The most challenging part of my job is helping students appreciate the reason behind why we are learning what we are learning - it isn’t always easy to see past the minutia.
Can you tell us more about your hobbies and interests? What do you do after work?
I am a HUGE Buffalo Bills fan (I used to have season tickets for 5 years when they were very, very bad) and love to talk about (American) football with anyone who will listen. I watch ALL the games in real time (yes, it is true!)
After work, I like to spend time with my family and friends, usually exploring the city’s parks and vibrant culinary scene. We are fans of all the food KL has to offer, a well as the nature and culture too!
Which Panther are you?
🐾 The Most Onz Panther – (Onz means nothing is impossible)
Share why you chose this superlative and how it shows your Panther spirit!
I have a strong belief that we are our biggest limitations - our ability to reach the stars is hindered only by our unwillingness to pursue the dreams we have wished upon them.
I’m the Most Onz Panther because… I dare to dream - then dare to make it happen.
Tell us why ISKL is special to you?
I Suka (Like) ISKL because the truly diverse community (faculty, students and parents) has embraced me and my family. We are able to share our experiences and learn from those of others around us, expanding our viewpoints and teaching us about how others see the world. ISKL really aims to meet every learner where they are, and provide them with the tools necessary to achieve. We have been in many schools in our careers - this is a truly special place.
What does ISKL’s Vision statement “Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world” mean to you?
It means that in order to care for others and create a better world, we must first understand who we are - what makes us unique, what makes us anxious, what makes us happy. Once we understand ourselves as individuals, we can then expand our viewpoint to that of others around us - we can have empathy for people, learn how to help others meet their needs. If we can do these two things - the world will be a better place. Kindness is contagious. It is hard to not want to be nice, when everyone around you is nice.
Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff member who always have an anecdote to tell, love to share some insights into their passions and interest, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.