As students head back to the classroom, co-hosts Dr. Robert Franklin and Former Mayor Lee take a closer look at the partnership between the City of San Mateo and the school districts to ensure students have what they need to succeed.

From the Learning Education Assistance Program (LEAP) that provided essential resources during COVID-19, to safety improvements like reduced speed limits around schools and the expansion of crossing guards, San Mateo is committed to supporting students.

We also highlight the Police Activity League's Backpack Palooza, which served a record number of 450 families this year, and discuss how new affordable housing projects, like Kiku Crossing, are making a difference by offering free after-school programs for working families. Tune in as we explore the many ways local government is stepping up to help students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

In this episode of Beyond City Hall, we're thrilled to announce that the City Services Academy is now accepting applications! Join us as we dive into this unique opportunity for residents and workers in San Mateo to gain an insider's perspective on city government.

The City Services Academy is not just an educational experience; it's a model of transparency in governance. This immersive 3-month program provides opportunities to meet City executive leaders and explore the various facets of municipal operations.

Whether you're interested in public safety, infrastructure, community services, or simply want to learn more about how your city functions, this unique open door learning experience offers residents and our workforce a comprehensive and engaging experience.

Former Mayor Amourence Lee joined Dr. Franklin to discuss a momentous day in American history that marked the actual end of African-American slavery in the United States, some two and a half years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation had been made effective: Juneteenth.

In 2024, the City of San Mateo declared Juneteenth an official City Holiday. Former Mayor Lee played a pivotal role in organizing a celebratory Juneteenth event in Downtown San Mateo, which featured a variety of culturally significant activities. The event included a drum circle led by Onye Onyemaechi, praise dancers from the Pilgrim Christian Church, and reading of the children's story "Juneteenth Is." Additionally, the celebration highlighted and honored local Black leaders in San Mateo including Gloria Brown, Lisa Tealer, Mimi Page, and Charles Hansen.

During her discussion, Mayor Lee emphasized the importance of celebrating Juneteenth as a day of liberation and reflection. She also addressed the pressing need to acknowledge and confront the City's historical and ongoing gaps in racial representation. Despite San Mateo's 130-year history, the City has never elected a Black man to a leadership position.

Former Mayor Lee underscored that while recognizing Juneteenth is a significant step, there remains essential work to be done to achieve true representation and equity at all levels of government. The event served as both a celebration of progress and a call to action for continued advocacy and change.