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Mariana Dale
What I cover
I explore and explain the forces that shape how and what kids learn from kindergarten to high school. Our K-12 education system has not always provided each child the same opportunities to succeed, but I believe all kids have the capacity to learn and find a meaningful place in the world.
My background
I started at LAist in 2019 as the early childhood reporter where I quickly realized that what we think of as education starts well before a kid steps into a classroom. Health, access to child care and nutritious food are a few of the many factors that shape young people’s lives. My reporting on the disparities in maternal mortality taught me that inequity can lead to deadly outcomes but also that there is a groundswell of community support pushing to change harmful systems.
I grew up in Arizona, where among other things, I reported on education, saguaro cactus and questions from people like you. I’m proud to mentor emerging journalists through Next Gen Radio and various education programs.
My reporting has earned a national Edward R. Murrow award, Hillman Prize and accolades from the L.A. Press Club and the Online News Association.
My goals
I want to help families navigate their child’s education, explore the challenges that prevent schools from creating an environment where all students can learn and highlight solutions.
Best way to reach me
I love to hear questions and ideas for stories about schools and the opportunities in our community for children to learn and grow. You can reach out by email at mdale@laist.com.
Stories by Mariana Dale
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The new interim leader has worked for the district for nearly three decades, most recently as chief of school operations.
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The board appointed longtime school administrator Andres Chait as interim superintendent.
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Every year, Kansha Creamery's flavor contest gives kids the opportunity to turn their ideas into sweet, sweet frozen reality.
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The FBI searched Superintendent Alberto Carvalho’s home and office Wednesday morning.
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A DOJ spokesperson said the agency has a court-authorized warrant but declined to provide additional details.
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Broadly speaking, California law requires minors to attend school, but it also protects students’ rights to speak out.
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The divisive 4-3 vote approves the issue of preliminary layoff notices to more than 3,000 employees.
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In meeting materials posted late Friday night, the district proposed giving notice to thousands of employees and closing hundreds of additional positions.
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A teacher's dismissal has spurred protests and raised questions about whose responsibility it is to ensure safety as students exercise their First Amendment rights.
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Educators and parents have urged district leaders to delay cuts to school and administrative positions.
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The young activists say they’re walking out to stand up for their friends, their families and those who’ve lost their lives at the hands of federal agents
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More walkouts are planned in the San Fernando Valley on Friday.
