Free Program on How Connections to Place Can Benefit You

You’re invited to a special program on February 4 that will explore how to make systems change happen in the places where we live to benefit people and the planet and the important role our schools play in it. The event will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Burlingame Community Center, 850 Burlingame Ave. in Burlingame. Admission is free, but pre-registration is required at https://bit.ly/ConnectedtoPlace2026. Doors open at 6:30.

The program features Matt Biggar, Ph.D., a strategy consultant, researcher, and former school district and school administrator in San Mateo County, discussing his recent book, Connected to Place: Regenerating Nature, Community, and Local Economies through Systems Change, and local educational leaders. Following his book talk, Matt will moderate a panel discussion on place-based education with Julie Hilborn, Director of Environmental Literacy and Sustainability at the San Mateo County Office of Education; Theresa Vallez-Kelly, Coordinator of Safe Routes to School at the San Mateo County Office of Education; and Natalie Dias, a youth climate activist who attends San Mateo High School. In addition, a city representative will explain the statewide “6 Neighbors” campaign, which emphasizes the benefits to personal well-being and community resilience of knowing your neighbors.

A book signing will take place with copies of Connected to Place available for sale.

The program is co-hosted by the Citizens Environmental Council, San Mateo County Office of Education, Thrive Alliance of Nonprofits for San Mateo County, Sustainable San Mateo County, and Burlingame’s Department of Parks & Recreation.

WHEN: Wed. Feb. 4, 7-8:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:30.

WHERE: Burlingame Community Center, 850 Burlingame Ave., Burlingame.

ADMISSION: free, but pre-registration is required at https://tinyurl.com/Connectedt....