Alvaro (Alvie) Borrell
Alvaro Borrell, affectionately known as “Alvie,” has been a dedicated member of the Amherst-Pelham Regional School District for 17 years, with 15 of those years spent as a special education teacher at Crocker Farm Elementary. His commitment to students and his collaborative approach make him an invaluable part of the school community.
Colleagues praise Alvie’s ability to keep his team focused and organized, especially during department meetings, and highlight how his sense of humor and intelligence bring energy and positivity to the sixth-grade team. “Mr. Borrell is an exceptional team member,” one peer shared. “He goes above and beyond, contributing to the success of all students, not just those on his caseload. We are truly fortunate to have him.”
Alvie is inspired by the moments when students begin to believe in themselves. “Hearing a student ask, ‘Mr. Borrell, is this good enough?’ is why I became a teacher,” he explains. “Those words signify that a student trusts me, values feedback, and wants to take pride in their work. Being a part of helping someone realize their potential is what keeps me going.”
For Alvie, one of the best aspects of working at ARPS is being part of a team that values every student. “It’s truly special to work with educators who connect with each student,” he says. Alvie credits the leadership at Crocker Farm, particularly Principal Derek Shea, for fostering this inclusive environment and gives a special shout-out to his sixth-grade team—Lauren Mattone, Kristen Roeder, and Judah Hughes—for making his “crazy antics” feel perfectly normal.