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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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At the end of January, students will have returned to two of the three public school campuses burned in the Palisades Fire one year prior.
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About 64,000 students signed up for a week of credit recovery and enrichment camps.
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Federal funding cuts and immigration policy were two significant issues among many that local educators navigated in 2025.
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You can hear the 2026 Rose Parade theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” reflected in the music of its marching band ensembles.
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Now a full week, Winter Academy offers students art and science activities, meals and for high schoolers, the opportunity to boost first-semester grades.
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Translating for your family can feel burdensome, but these authors want families to see the power in living between two languages.
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Education researchers say happier teachers are more likely to stay and that stability can be good for long-term learning outcomes.
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Federal immigration agents detained 18-year-old Benjamin Marcelo Guerrero-Cruz as he walked the family dog in Van Nuys in August.
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The Malibu City Council and Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District Board have approved a plan that separates resources, but it will take some time.
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High school principals nationwide report concern among students from immigrant families, bullying and absences tied to immigration policy and rhetoric in a new UCLA report.
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Some teachers are making the switch from private preschools to transitional kindergarten. Others come from upper grades. Many are needed.
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LAist turns to local booksellers and librarians for recommendations for young readers — from picture books to graphic novels and young adult titles.
