How BIS Became a Performing Arts Standout

The dedicated leadership of Jen Ibos and BCE funding make BIS theater a model for public schools.

Theater at Burlingame Intermediate School isn’t just an elective or after-school activity. It’s a tradition, a community, and a source of pride. For 18 years, School Counselor and Theater Director Jen Ibos has transformed BIS productions into can’t-miss events, cultivating a program that many families say is unlike anything they’ve seen at the middle school level.

What makes the BIS program especially remarkable is that it isn’t something most public middle schools can offer. In districts like Burlingame, where state funding is limited, a program of this quality reflects both the dedication of educators and the community’s extraordinary commitment to giving students access to opportunities that many nearby schools simply don’t have. New BIS parent Lisa Novak, whose seventh grader is performing in the upcoming production of Knights of the Rad Table, says she was stunned by the scope of the program. “We’ve been part of other schools before, but I’ve never seen anything at this level,” she said. “The professionalism, the structure, and the student engagement feel like something you’d find at a high school, or even a private performing arts academy. It’s an incredible opportunity for our kids.”

What parents like Novak see on stage is the result of nearly two decades of dedication behind the scenes. Since joining BIS 18 years ago, Ibos has poured her heart into building a program that brings out the best in every student. “Both my roles, school counselor and theater director, are a passion, joy, and excitement for me,” Ibos said. “At this point, I hope BIS is my forever home.”

Born and raised in Whittier, California, Ibos moved to the Bay Area in 2004 to pursue her master’s

degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of San Francisco. Soon after joining BIS, an unexpected opportunity set her on a path that would define her career.

“My principal at the time said, ‘You’re into theater, right? You could do this!’” Ibos recalled. “I came back after the weekend and agreed to direct the only musical I knew by heart: Annie. The rest is history.” That first production was a turning point for the school community. “I’ll never forget the excitement when the teaser was performed,” Ibos said. “Students and staff came up to me astounded by the production. It left them speechless.” Since then, Ibos has directed three dozen plays and musicals, guiding nearly 1,000 students through performances that have become hallmark events in the BIS community.

The Burlingame Community for Education Foundation (BCE) has played a vital role from the start. “BCE eagerly wanted to be a sponsor after our first show, and they’ve been supporting our productions for 17 years,” Ibos said.

“BCE commitment has allowed our program to grow into something students and the community anticipate every year.” —Director Jen Ibos

Her work has not been without challenges. When the pandemic closed the BIS production of Newsies midway through its run, Ibos refused to let the show end unfinished. She coordinated a virtual performance that combined Zoom-recorded scenes with video and photos from opening weekend. “NEWSIES: FOREVER will always hold a special place in my heart,” she said. “That experience showed the power of theater to connect us even in difficult times.”

For Ibos, the impact of theater extends far beyond the stage. “The most significant part is what these productions teach the participants,” she explained. “Confidence for the quiet and shy, focus for those who don’t always stand out academically, grit for those who start with no role and grow into a lead, friendships across grade levels, teamwork, and responsibility.” As a lifelong performing arts enthusiast herself, Ibos sees these lessons as life-changing. “I am proof as a performing arts kid that these experiences matter,” she said. “They mold us into strong characters with skill sets needed to thrive in most situations.”

Looking ahead, Ibos is excited to welcome new families into the BIS theater tradition. “I thank BCE for giving all of us these opportunities throughout the years,” she said. “And I look forward to many of your families joining our theater family one day.”

How You Can Help the BIS Performing Arts Program

Funding the BIS fall play and spring musical are one of many ways that donations to BCE help make our schools dynamic communities that engage students beyond the basic curriculum. BCE relies on generous support from parents, businesses and community members to meet its grant goals. Donations to BCE provide our schools with funding for enhancing the educational experience for every child in Burlingame. If you haven’t given yet this year, our suggested donation amount is $2,000 per student, but every dollar makes a difference. Consider joining our Scholars Circle by making a donation of $4,000 or more.

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