BCE Launches Cornerstone Society to Build the Future of Burlingame Schools
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
New phase of the Endowment campaign invites families to leave a lasting legacy while helping BCE reach its $5 million goal in celebration of the foundation’s 45th anniversary.
Following the ribbon cutting at the Endowment Founders Circle at the BCE Donor Plaza last fall, the Burlingame Community for Education Foundation (BCE) is excited to announce the next phase of its long-term investment in our public schools: the launch of the Cornerstone Society. This new giving opportunity invites families to make a lasting impact on Burlingame students while becoming part of a growing legacy of community support.
With the BCE Endowment now at $3.2 million, the foundation is building momentum toward an ambitious goal of $5 million by summer 2027, in honor of BCE’s 45th anniversary. Reaching this milestone would represent a powerful commitment to the future of Burlingame schools, helping ensure stable, sustainable funding for generations of students to come. The Endowment made a first contribution of $75,000 to the annual grant made in 2025 and it is anticipated that figure will grow to $100,000 next fall and in the coming years.
Endowment Council Lead Matt Potter emphasized the importance of growing this fund now. “The momentum we’re seeing is incredibly encouraging,” he said. “Each new commitment strengthens the foundation we’ve built over the last three years. Reaching $5 million would be a transformative milestone, allowing the Endowment to play an even greater role in supporting Burlingame schools for generations ahead.”
Building on a Strong Foundation
The recently unveiled Endowment Donor Recognition Plaza at Burlingame Intermediate School marked an important milestone for BCE. What began as a vision to create a permanent source of support for Burlingame schools has become a visible and meaningful part of the campus that students, families, and alumni pass through every day.
The BIS students were quick to give the plaza a nickname. Many call it the “Founders Circle-Square.” Once kids realized the plaza is technically a square, the name stuck, and has been spreading with classic middle-school enthusiasm. It’s a charming reminder that while this plaza honors long-term vision and generosity, it has also immediately become part of students’ everyday lives, in the most delightfully silly way. The Cornerstone Society builds on that momentum, expanding opportunities for families to participate in the Endowment in a meaningful and lasting way, and will give donors a chance to add some Cornerstones to that Circle-Square!
Introducing the Cornerstone Society
Families who make a gift or pledge to the BCE Endowment starting at $10,000 will be welcomed into the Cornerstone Society and recognized with a personalized engraved paver in the Donor Plaza at Burlingame Intermediate School. “We are looking for families looking to make pledges at the $50K or $100K level that could be fulfilled over the next three to four years. Like with the Founders Circle, this level of support sets the tone for generosity and helps us achieve our goals even sooner,” said BCE Executive Director Meredith Dunn. “However, high level gifts are not all we are looking for! Donating or pledging at the $10,000 or $25,000 level will also have a meaningful impact on growing the endowment,” she added.
These pavers are more than just recognition. They are a tangible symbol of a family’s commitment to education and to the Burlingame community. Over time, the plaza will continue to grow, telling the story of the many families who have chosen to invest in the long-term strength of local public schools.
“Our family’s contribution to the BCE Endowment is a gift to a community we love, with an impact that will outlast our children’s time in the district. We are incredibly proud to join the Cornerstone Society, securing the long-term strength of Burlingame schools and leaving a legacy of support for generations to come.” -Ann Wang Reed, McKinley Parent and Cornerstone Society Donor
Why the Endowment Matters
While BCE’s Annual Fund supports critical programs each year, including music, PE, world languages, and additional teaching staff, the Endowment is designed for long-term sustainability. Contributions are invested, and over time, a portion of these earnings can be directed to fund the BCE grant each year, providing consistency and stability even as the school district’s funding needs evolve.
“As we approach BCE’s 45th anniversary, this is a meaningful opportunity for families to be part of something lasting,” said BCE Co-President Pooja Shah. “The Endowment is about looking ahead and making sure that the programs we value today are still strong for future students. The Cornerstone Society gives families a way to be part of that vision in a very tangible way.” In a community that deeply values education, the Endowment represents a shared commitment to ensuring that Burlingame schools remain strong, not just today, but for decades to come.
“Our family has been in BSD schools for 11 years, and we've seen firsthand the difference BCE funding makes, from music programs and PE to the educators who show up for our kids every day. No matter how much the world changes, we hope a quality education for every kid in Burlingame remains a constant." -Cornerstone Society Donors Joan and Kevin Lafferty, BIS and Lincoln Parents and Cornerstone Society Donors
Be Part of the Legacy
There are still opportunities to join the Cornerstone Society and be recognized in the Donor Plaza. Families interested in making a gift or pledge to the BCE Endowment can learn more or connect directly with the BCE team to explore options. There are many ways to give or pledge. To learn more or get involved, please contact endowment@bcefoundation.org.
