Bob Fenster and Barbara Borto are the kind of teachers students never forget.
They go above and beyond to help their students succeed, leaving a lasting impact that goes way beyond the classroom.
At Hillsborough High School, Fenster has been inspiring students for over 30 years, teaching them to think critically and speak confidently.
Meanwhile, Borto is helping her ESL students shine at Hillsborough Elementary with her thoughtful and creative teaching style.
Together, they show just how much a great teacher can change lives.
Let’s start with Bob Fenster.
He’s been a social studies teacher at Hillsborough High for decades, and he’s not just teaching history—he’s teaching students how to think for themselves and tackle real-world problems.
He runs the Debate Club with co-advisor Louis DiGirolamo, and recently, they took their students to Washington, D.C., for the Princeton Model Congress.
This wasn’t just a regular trip.
The students didn’t just compete; they also got to meet alumni from their school who are now working in government and public policy.
These alumni, all former students of Fenster, shared their experiences and advice:
- Daria Grastara, Class of 2013, is now the CEO of a political marketing agency.
- Yuval Levin, Class of 1995, is a well-known conservative thinker who leads research at the American Enterprise Institute and writes about public policy and culture.
- Zach Volpe, Class of 2019, works with the Senate Armed Services Committee and is studying law at Georgetown.
Together, these alumni gave the students a behind-the-scenes look at their careers and how the skills they learned in debate helped them succeed.
The trip was eye-opening for the students.
Hearing from people who once sat in the same classrooms was inspiring.
It showed them what’s possible when you work hard and think critically.
For Fenster, it was a proud moment.
He’s always believed in the power of debate to teach students how to analyze, argue, and make decisions.
Seeing his former students thriving in important roles was proof that his teaching philosophy works.
Fenster’s influence extends beyond just debate.
His classroom is a place where students take charge of their learning.
They work on projects, make videos, and even create games to show what they’ve learned.
He wants students to think for themselves and find their own way of understanding the world.
That’s why he’s been recognized with so many awards, like the 2022 Educator of the Year from the National Society of High School Scholars and his induction into the National Teachers Hall of Fame.
His goal has always been to help students become informed, thoughtful citizens.
Over at Hillsborough Elementary, Barbara Borto is also making a big difference.
She’s an ESL teacher who has been nominated for the LifeChanger of the Year Award not once but twice.
This award is given to teachers who make a real difference in their student’s lives, and Borto is a perfect example.
She’s known for her friendly and creative teaching style, which makes learning fun and easy for her students.
One parent, Oksana Semyrozum, said her kids love going to Borto’s classes and feel supported by her, both in school and in life.
The LifeChanger Award recognizes teachers who inspire students, lead with excellence, and create a positive school environment.
Winners get cash prizes to share with their schools, but what really matters is the recognition of their hard work.
Borto has a way of making her students feel valued and confident, which helps them succeed not just in school but in everything they do.
Both Fenster and Borto show what happens when teachers truly care about their students.
Fenster has turned debate and critical thinking into stepping stones for future leaders, while Borto creates a welcoming space where students can thrive.
Their dedication is inspiring, and their work reminds us just how important great teachers are.
They’re not just teaching lessons—they’re shaping futures.