Superheroes Take Center Stage at BCE’s First Back-to-School Celebration

Parents, teachers, donors, and local businesses gather to honor Burlingame’s everyday champions.

Capes, masks, and plenty of laughter filled the All Natural Stone showroom on Saturday, September 6, as the Burlingame Community for Education Foundation (BCE) hosted its inaugural Back-to-School Superhero Party. More than 125 parents, educators, business sponsors, and Burlingame School District leaders gathered for a night that blended festive fun with heartfelt appreciation for the biggest superheroes of the community: teachers!

Guests snapped photos at a themed photo booth, tested their luck in a raffle, and enjoyed live performances by student musicians. Some even arrived in full superhero costume, adding to the playful spirit of the evening. The event, designed as a new way to bring donors and families together at the start of the school year, was hosted by longtime BCE sponsor All Natural Stone.

“This new Welcome Back to School donor event is BCE’s way of uniting our league of everyday heroes,” said BCE Board Member and Co-VP of Events Vidya Nathu. “Together, we celebrated the superpowers of generosity that fuel our schools, connect our community, and ensure every student has the tools to soar.”

For parent and volunteer Alia Stadtlander (also known as Wonder Woman), the night’s student performances underscored the importance of BCE’s work. A mother of three who has long supported music education in Burlingame, Stadtlander said, “BCE is deeply important to our family, as I know it is to yours. Tonight, we are fortunate to enjoy the voices of wonderfully talented students, which are a testament to the opportunities BCE provides and the joy of growing through music.”

That connection between BCE and the arts was echoed by Burlingame Intermediate School Theater Director Jennifer Ibos, who has directed the school’s musical productions for nearly two decades. “From the very beginning, BCE has been a vital part of these productions,” she said. “As you know, putting on a show can be very expensive, and thanks to BCE, our students don’t have to worry about covering costs for props, décor, costumes, and all the many details that bring a production to life. Elementary music teacher Carol Prater agreed, putting the impact of BCE into simple, powerful words. “BCE is my hero!” she said. “Providing the kids the best education possible! Thank you from the entire BSD Music Team.”

The evening also highlighted the role of local businesses in strengthening schools. All Natural Stone owner Larry Perez said he was proud to host the celebration and to support BCE’s mission. “All Natural Stone has been a partner of BCE for many years and I am constantly amazed by this community and by all that BCE does for the kids,” Perez said. “The power of businesses supporting the community helps nurture the talents of future generations, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all.”

BCE leaders emphasized that the community’s generosity is what makes these programs possible. “Our donors are the true superheroes,” said Executive Director Meredith Dunn. “Year after year they show up to provide support and lift up our schools to make them better for all kids.” President-Elect Pooja Shah added her gratitude and a touch of humor. “First, a huge thank you to All Natural Stone and Larry Perez for generously hosting tonight’s celebration,” she said. “Larry, your partnership reminds us that real heroes aren’t only in capes—they’re the ones who step up for our community. And if you’ve driven around town, you know the new symbol of strength isn’t the Bat-Signal. It’s a BCE lawn sign!”

The Superhero Party marked the beginning of what BCE hopes will become an annual tradition, bringing together the many “heroes” who make extraordinary education possible in Burlingame.

Get Your Own BCE Fall Drive Lawn Sign!

Make your annual donation before November 2, and BIS student volunteers will deliver a student-designed Fall Drive Lawn Sign to your door, while supplies last!

Donations of all levels are welcome and appreciated. The recommended per student donation remains unchanged at $2,000, and the Scholars Circle giving level remains unchanged at $4,000.

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