Mahopac Central School District is proud to announce that Jennifer Borst, a Lakeview Elementary School educational technology and STEAM teacher, and Robert D’Alessandro, a Mahopac High School science teacher, have been selected as New York State Master Teachers in the Mid-Hudson Region. The designation recognizes outstanding educators who demonstrate a strong commitment to teaching excellence, collaboration and ongoing professional growth.
The NYS Master Teacher Program offers educators opportunities to engage in high-level professional learning, collaborate with peers from across the region and explore innovative instructional practices.
Borst shared that the recognition reflects both her personal and professional growth as an educator.
“On a personal level, it highlights my commitment to continuous growth as an educator and lifelong learner,” Borst said. “Professionally, this program will allow me to collaborate with educators across the region and participate in professional development that aligns with my interests.”
She added that her passion for learning continues to drive her work in the classroom.
“I’m inspired by seeing students’ ‘aha’ moments and their excitement as they engage in lessons,” Borst said. “That enthusiasm motivates me to keep growing and to bring meaningful STEAM experiences to my students.”
D’Alessandro described the honor as both meaningful and motivating.
“It’s truly an honor and very humbling,” he said. “It feels good to know the work I enjoy doing every day is being recognized, and it motivates me to keep learning and improving as a teacher.”
He shared that his inspiration comes directly from the students and colleagues he works with each day.
“My students inspire me every day through their curiosity, questions and growth,” D’Alessandro said. “I’m also inspired by my colleagues at Mahopac, who are an incredibly talented group of educators and make coming to work every day a pleasure.”
Through the program, D’Alessandro hopes to bring new ideas, hands-on experiences and real-world connections back to his classroom, keeping science engaging, meaningful and accessible for students.
Superintendent of Schools Frank Miele congratulated both educators on their achievement.
“Jenn and Rob exemplify the passion, dedication and professionalism that define teaching in Mahopac,” Miele said. “Their selection as NYS Master Teachers is well deserved and reflects our district’s strong commitment to excellence. I am very proud of them and their achievement.”
Borst and D’Alessandro join a distinguished group of Mahopac educators who have earned the Master Teacher designation, further strengthening the district’s culture of collaboration, innovation and excellence in teaching.
Mahopac CSD Master Teachers (Alphabetical by Last Name):
Jennifer Borst, Master Teacher
James Carroll, Master Teacher
Jennifer Cauthers, Master Teacher
Robert D’Alessandro, Master Teacher
Patricia “Trish” Huestis, Master Teacher
Tricia Johnson, Master Teacher Emeritus
Michael Mahoney, Master Teacher Emeritus
Kelley Posch, Master Teacher
Dennis Quackenbush, Master Teacher
Frank Rizzo, Master Teacher
Elizabeth Stephens, Master Teacher Emeritus
Szilvia Tobak, Master Teacher
